Comprehensive Alternative Solutions for Complexities of Modern Illness
Specialize in Chronic Inflammation with Natural Therapies
Treat the underlying cause contributing to flare-ups and recurrence.
Unique Japanese Style Acupuncture, Renowned Lineages
Experience a real difference in treatment in quality, length, and compassionate care.
Eliminate Toxins, Nourished by Herbal Medicine
Detoxify your vital organs, restored by all-natural herbs without additives.
Support the Core: Nervous, Immune, and Hormonal Systems
Achieve long-lasting healing and longevity by treating the core, not just the surface.
Chronic inflammation rarely comes from one place — often a combination of external toxins absorbed and internal dysfunction of the organs. Master Mika addresses both, using the most natural methods available.
Available in Charlotte, New York City, and online (consultation only)
Our Featured Healing Stories
Fertility with Chronic Fatigue
"I have been suffering from chronic fatigue since I was very young. My husband and I tried to conceive for the past 5 years but it was in vain. I began receiving Master Mika's treatment for chronic fatigue with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Within a few months, the energy began improving. I got pregnant within six months. Thank you, Master Mika." (F, 30s)
Long COVID Syndrome
"A few months after I was infected with COVID, I began developing eczema. I went to a dermatologist and took medications as prescribed, but the condition was getting worse. I was desperate. I received Master Mika's herbal medicine, and the eczema was resolved within a month. I continued healing with Master Mika to release toxins from my entire body. Now I am symptom free." (F, 50s)
Sinus Infections
"In my childhood, I developed severe sinus infections and received 2 surgeries, but the infections still came back. I received 3 acupuncture sessions with Master Mika, in conjunction with her detox program and my sinus infection is completely gone. It also simultaneously healed my anxiety. This helped me find a new job, a new partner, and my life is totally rejuvenated." (F, 20s)
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
"I've had a weak digestive system since childhood, and it only got worse after my gallbladder was removed — constant bloating and gas. I started acupuncture with Master Mika every two weeks, along with a colon and liver detox protocol. My liver enzyme levels steadily improved and are now completely normal. I maintain a clean diet and continue acupuncture for prevention." (F, 70s)
Conditions Treated
Infections, inflammation, and allergies
Autoimmune disorders
Digestive disturbances
Respiratory issues
EENT conditions
Hormone and endocrine imbalances
Gynecological conditions
Skin conditions
Urological issues
Pain, neurological, and sleep disturbances
Depression, anxiety, and psychological conditions
Natural Medicine, Beyond Labs
Many patients come to Master Mika during or after working with a Functional Medicine practitioner, seeking treatment that goes beyond what labs and supplements alone can reach.
- Root cause: Functional Medicine identifies root causes through labs and biomarkers; Master Mika detects by understanding the entire health history and communicating with the body via pulse, tongue, observation, and palpation
- Natural treatment: Functional Medicine treats with supplements and diet; Master Mika directly treats the body's core systems and symptoms together
- Safe to combine: Master Mika's treatments don't interfere with Functional Medicine's supplement or diet protocols
- Start any time: works alongside Functional Medicine from the start, or after
Benefits of Japanese Acupuncture
Comprehensive treatment, twice as long as standard TCM (~2 hours), for both symptomatic relief and a deep, profound reset
- Alleviates symptoms like pain, fatigue, and inflammation
- Supports vital organ function — kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, and intestines
- Treats root causes that obstruct healing, restoring homeostasis and the body's innate healing ability
- Aids detoxification and the lymphatic system
- Strengthens the immune system
- Calms the sympathetic nervous system, balances the autonomic nervous system, and supports the vagus nerves
- Balances hormones
Master Mika's 3 Steps of Transformation
Step 1 — Reset: Supports core systems (kidneys, liver, digestive organs, heart, lungs, nervous system), bringing the body into deep rest and restoring natural homeostasis
Step 2 — Treat: Addresses your specific condition — received more deeply since the body is already settled, resolving the root cause so symptoms don't return
Step 3 — Maintain: Once balance is restored, ongoing care sustains it — preventing recurrence and supporting long-term wellness before illness has a chance to take hold
Each session includes guidance on diet, supplements, and lifestyle for healing between visits
History - Lineage
Classical Chinese Medicine
Chinese medicine has a history of more than 5,000 years. It has evolved into many styles and traditions across China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Most acupuncture practiced in the United States is TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). It is a synthesized, modernized style created by the People's Republic of China in the 1960s, designed for low-cost and faster treatment in community clinic and hospital settings. It is currently considered the standard acupuncture in the United States. Because its point selections are standardized, treatments are easily replicable regardless of a practitioner's skills or experience. The downside is that it is less personalized, requires frequent visits weekly or bi-weekly, and is often limited to symptomatic treatment.
Advanced Japanese Acupuncture
Master Mika practices Japanese Advanced Acupuncture — a holistic and comprehensive approach. Her lineage draws from Japanese-style acupuncture protocols dating back to the 1600s, making her one of a handful of practitioners in the United States practicing Ken Kobayashi-style Japanese acupuncture and medicinal herb protocols. She also practices Kiiko Matsumoto-style acupuncture, a Japanese Meridian Therapy internationally renowned for its efficacy.
Adult Acupuncture:
Initial session: 2 hours
Follow-up sessions: 90 – 105 min
Frequency: every 2-4 weeks, unless otherwise acute
Pediatric Acupuncture: (under 12 years old)
Initial session: 1 hour
Follow-up session: 30 min
What should you expect in each treatment
- Sessions run up to 2 hours — longer than standard TCM, for deeper, faster healing.
- Less frequent visits: typically every 2-4 weeks, unless acute.
- Safe to combine with conventional care: sterile, single-use, thinner Japanese needles applied gently.
Preparing for each treatment
- Avoid coming to the clinic hungry or with a full stomach.
- Avoid alcohol on the day of the treatment.
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated after treatment.
- For best results, avoid strenuous activity and stress immediately following your appointment.
Moxibustion
Traditional Japanese heat therapy, often combined with acupuncture:
- Burning a small cone of moxa (mugwort) improves blood circulation
- Activates cell rejuvenation to fight inflammation and alleviates pain
- Increases the effectiveness of acupuncture by tenfold in a single session
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Combined with acupuncture for a powerful, holistic approach to internal healing
- Acupuncture activates the body from the outside in; herbs heal from the inside out
- Used for over 5,000 years, with established effectiveness and safety
- Personalized formula made with organic, wild-harvested herbs for your specific needs
- Prepared as a traditional decoction (cooked 45 min) — more potent than granules, capsules, or tablets
- Herbs available to ship anywhere
From the food we eat to the air we breathe — environmental, dietary, pathogenic, and EMF exposures — all add to your body's toxic load.
Functional Detoxification Therapy
- Chronic exposure to environmental, dietary, pathogenic, and EMF toxins can overwhelm the body's natural detox systems, contributing to illness
- Restores proper function to the liver, kidneys, and gut — the body's core detoxification organs
- Protocols include colon detox, liver detox, heavy metal detox, anti-parasite and antimicrobial herbal formulas, and custom organ-strengthening herbs
- More effective than temporary "flush" products, since we treat the underlying dysfunction — not just the symptoms
Frequency Medicine Therapy
- Uses devices like the ZAPPER, which emits frequency-specific electricity to target pathogens — parasites, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other toxins
- Reactivates white blood cells to hunt and eliminate pathogens naturally
- Used as a complementary treatment, often combined with Japanese Acupuncture
Dietary Energetics Therapy
- Dietary therapy based on Eastern medicine is personalized — based on your energetic type, constitution, climate, age, sex, and physical/emotional state
- Different from Western nutrition's focus on carbohydrates, protein, and fats alone
- Aims to create balance and harmony in your body and mind through diet and nutrition
- Serves to alleviate the conditions you may have, preventing illness and creating a healthy balance through diet
- Includes gentle dietary guidance and natural supplements or herbs as needed
Far-Infrared Heat Therapy (Hyperthermia)
- Innovative treatment for whole-body detoxification and revitalization, using far-infrared waves that penetrate 5-6 inches deep to increase body temperature
- We're the only NYC clinic using "Smarty," the original far-infrared healing device from Japan
Benefits:
- Strengthens the immune system and cardiovascular system
- Increases blood flow, circulation, and cellular regeneration
- Eliminates fats, chemicals, and toxins from the bloodstream
- Kills pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites
- Promotes tissue repair, anti-aging, and healthy digestion
- Relieves nervous tension, stress, and breathing difficulties
Also used to support cancer treatment — recognized for strengthening the immune system and aiding recovery alongside conventional care. Read excerpts from Dr. Nobuhiro Yoshimizu's book, The Fourth Treatment for Medical Refugees · Cancer Society: Hyperthermia to treat cancer
Recommended frequency:
- Chronic conditions: 2-3 sessions/week
- Intensive detox: 4 sessions over 1-2 weeks
- Health maintenance/prevention: 2-3 sessions/month
Testimonials: Natural Medicine
Acid reflux
“In the past 3 years, I struggled with occasional acid reflux which was aggravated by stress. I was tired of taking medication forever and I decided to pursue natural therapy. Every acupuncture session with Master Mika reduced my pain and within four sessions, the pain was completely gone. I continue improving my diet and consciously release stress.” (Male, 30s)
Anxiety
I had been on 4 kinds of medication for anxiety and depression for over 10 years. Master Mika helped taper off of all medications that I was taking, through her acupuncture and Chinese herb treatment together with Reiki and meditation practice. (Male, 40s, NY)
Arthritis
I had been experiencing pain in my joints for years and nothing helped reduce the pain. I received acupuncture from Master Mika a few times and I started feeling so much better. Now I try to combine with Yoga to improve the flexibility in my joints as suggested by Master Mika. It is working! (Female, 40s, Queens)
Chronic Allergies
“I suffered from chronic allergies including food sensitivities and sinus problems for years and it made me sick all the time. I tried pretty much everything, but nothing worked. Then, I met Master Mika. After several sessions, my condition dramatically improved and I didn’t feel sick anymore from the food I used to have problems with. I can enjoy eating pretty much any food now, without getting sick. Thank you, Master Mika.” (Male, 20s)
Chronic Bronchitis
I was suffering from chronic bronchitis for a few months. I took antibiotics for weeks, but the symptoms did not go away. I received only one acupuncture session. After that acupuncture session, 80% of the symptoms of coughing and wheezing were gone. I could not believe it. Master Mika gave me Chinese herbal tea and I drank it every day for 8 days and I completely recovered from the symptoms by then. Her treatment was so effective and fast. Thank you, Master Mika! (Female, 20s, NY)
Chronic Fatigue
I have suffered from chronic fatigue and a weak immune system over the past 10 years. I was sick very often and it lowered my energy. I went to see hundreds of doctors and went through so many tests, with no results. I switched to Master Mika’s holistic treatments with acupuncture and Chinese herbs and gained my energy and strength back steadily, and eventually got rid of it and I was able to conceive. (Female, 30s, NY)
Chronic Pain Syndrome
“I suffered from severe pain all over my body and used to take countless pain medications every day—but was still in pain. After 3 acupuncture sessions with Master Mika, I am completely pain-free and I do not take pain medications. I also changed my diet according to her instructions, lost 10 pounds, and will continue to feel great.” (Male, 50s)
Compromised Immune System
I used to catch colds or have sore throat perpetually, especially in the winter time. I started receiving acupuncture and took Chinese herbal tea. Since then, I hardly catch a cold even if other people around me are getting it. I feel so much stronger. (Male, 30s, Brooklyn)
Depression
I had been on medication for over 10 years. I wanted to get off of medication, but I didn’t know how. Master Mika helped me completely get off of my medication with Acupuncture and Chinese herbs in a couple of months. I am so happy that I no longer take medication and have no symptom of depression! (Male, 30s, NY)
Depression
I suffered from depression for over 10 years. I took medication at some point, but I was experiencing side effects from it, so stopped taking it. My depression was so severe that I had no energy, motivation or passion to live. I received acupuncture together with Chinese herbs and I started feeling more positive immediately. I continued receiving the treatment for a few months and now I never feel the darkness anymore. Now I am so much happier, enjoying life and finding the purpose in my life. I also learned meditation from Master Mika. I cannot express how thankful I am. (Female, 50s, Queens)
Fertility
My husband and I wanted to have a second baby, which was not happening. Master Mika put me on a liver detoxification regime and that was it. I got pregnant right after. It was incredible. Thank you Master Mika. (Female, 30s, Charlotte)
Fibroid
I had fibroids for years and the pain was getting worse, especially at night. I received acupuncture from Master Mika together with Chinese herbs and followed her dietary instructions. The pain went away within a few weeks. It worked! I received only 7 sessions altogether. Now I confirmed with GYN that the fibroids have gone. Thank you so much, Master Mika! (Female, 30s, Queens, NY)
Gallbladder Stones
“I had so much pain and bloating due to the gallstones. I had an appointment for a surgery to remove the gallstones, but I decided to postpone the surgery and try acupuncture together with Chinese herbs, as suggested by Master Mika. As the treatment continued, the stones were passing. After receiving treatment for a couple of months, I completely recovered from the symptoms and gained back my energy as well. I started going back to school to complete my degree! Thank you, Master Mika!” (Female, 50s)
Headache – migraine
I constantly had cluster headaches/migraines for the past 10 years and I didn’t know how to fix it. I received Master Mika’s acupuncture for two sessions and took Chinese herbs. The pain was all gone! I could not believe it. I started practicing more exercise, especially Yoga and I really feel great! Thank you. (Male, 20s, NYC)
Hormonal Imbalance
I have suffered from hormonal imbalances since I was young, causing acne, mood swings and PMS, especially the week before my period. Her acupuncture and herbal medicine restored my hormonal balance, which helped me become more like myself. (Female, 3Charlotte)
Knee Pain
My knees were in so much pain andI tried everything, but nothing worked. I happened to find her website and decided to try her acupuncture treatment for my knee condition. She told me that I would need 3 consecutive treatments. She was right! Within the 3 sessions, all pain was gone! I could not believe it. I started doing regular exercise again. Since then, I just come to see her for a regular checkup a few times a year for maintenance. I feel great! Thank you, Master Mika. (C. M. Female, 60s, NJ)
Neck pain
I injured my neck due to an accident and I was diagnosed with spondylosis on my cervical vertebra. I had tremendous pain even just from sitting at the desk and doing computer work. I received Master Mika’s acupuncture for 7 sessions and the pain disappeared! Now I combine her treatments with Yoga and my neck is doing fine. I also changed my lifestyle and my attitude so I am so much happier! (Female, 20s, CT)
Rotator Cuff Pain
I have had pain in my rotator cuff for the past 3 years. I tried acupuncture before. It was helping, but it required many visits and the pain was still there. When I started receiving Master Mika’s acupuncture, I was so surprised. Her special acupuncture techniques reduced the pain by 80% after the first session. Within two sessions, I no longer experienced the pain. I now really know that her treatment is so effective! (Male, 50s, NJ)
Seasonal Allergies
I suffered from seasonal allergies for many years and finally decided to take action myself instead of taking occasional over-the-counter medicine. I experienced immediate relief and within 4 sessions I became allergy free. I go to see her every 2-3 years for a tune-up/prevention. (Female, 40s, Brooklyn)
Skin Rash – Eczema
I suffered from excruciating itching on my legs and later all over my body for weeks. I received Master Mika’s acupuncture for only one session and took Chinese herbal tea for 8 days. The symptoms were completely gone by the end of the 8 days. Thanks, Master Mika! (Female, 30s, NY)
Stomach Discomfort – bloating
I always had stomach discomfort and bloating whenever I was under a lot of pressure at work. I received a few acupuncture sessions and took Chinese herbs and I started feeling so much less bloated in stomach. I also learned how to cope with stress. I meditate and exercise more. I have improved my diet also. Thanks for your treatment and guidance. (Male, 30s, LI)
Disclaimer:
Please note, Mika Ichihara, M.S., L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist and holistic practitioner, and not a medical doctor. Always consult a medical doctor or appropriate physician to discuss your conditions and receive their medical advice. You should not rely on this website for diagnosis or medical advice, which serves solely as general holistic guidance to your conditions. Mika Ichihara may provide general information about medical conditions and treatments. However, the information provided by Mika Ichihara and this website is not a substitute for medical advice. Mika Ichihara assumes no responsibility or liability for any consequence resulting directly or indirectly from action taken based on her holistic advice and the information or material on or linked to this site.