What is Tangible Medicine?

Coined by Andrew Nugent-Head in response to the esoteric perspectives of Chinese medicine in the west, The Alternative Clinic focuses on tangible, effective results for patients and practical, relevant training for licensed practitioners. To read more about Tangible Medicine, please view Andrew’s article published in the Journal of Chinese Medicine:

JCM Tangible Medicine Article

Flavor Nature Herbalism

Greatly influenced by scientific terminology and research, today supplements, super foods and herbs are prescribed for chemical components, symptoms and disease names. This modern perspective greatly differs from classical Chinese herbal theory.  In contrast, the Huang Di Nei Jing, a seminal text dating back 2500 years, lays out how herbs affect the body systemically, and should be applied by the flavor and nature of the substance instead of by chemical components or results of lab testing and research. While herbal substances are natural and deemed to be more safe than pharmaceuticals, using plants as medicine can have dire consequences if they are not used with clarity and a perspective that stems from millennia of safe and effective use.

Watch this 50 minute video on the importance of staying within the Chinese medical paradigm when using herbs & food as medicine.

Classical Chinese Herbal Theory

Why Ice Delays Recovery

This fascinating article rebukes the “RICE” standard (rest, ice, compression and elevation) and will help you understand why we do not encourage icing injuries

Why Ice Delays Recovery

Patient Reviews

EXCELLENT
65 reviews on
Xiaokun Montez
Xiaokun Montez
December 13, 2023
I have been to the clinic several times in the past 2-3 months. The experience has been amazing. I am so impressed with Dr. Andrew and Dr. JulieAnne with their mastery of chinese medicine that I immediately set up appointments for my husband to get great care from them. Needless to say, the healing results have been miraculous. My husband and I will have the alternative clinic as our primary care for the rest of our lives.
Reese Morgani
Reese Morgani
November 3, 2023
Amazing place for what's ailing you or just a nice massage. Have been caring for me and my wife now since 2016. Glad to have this option in Asheville and such a great staff!
J R
J R
November 3, 2023
As a newbie to acupuncture, I'll start off by saying my experience at the Alternative Clinic has been warm and welcoming. Hannah has helped me recover from a sports related injury quicker than anticipated. She's knowledgeable in her practice, methodical, and was always happy to answer my many questions. Big thanks!
Kari Williams
Kari Williams
October 26, 2023
The Alternative Clinic is the only medical facility that has helped relieve the pain of my autoimmune disease ankylosing spondylitis. Prior to this clinic I had seen 6 physical therapists, 3 chiropractors, 2 physiatrists, feldenkreis, massage, other types of acupuncture, this is the only therapy that relieves the pain long term. Not only has he helped me but I finally got my husband to see Andrew. Andrew relieved a chronic pain in his neck and shoulder that no other therapist had been able to relieve long term.
Erika Binger
Erika Binger
October 26, 2023
I worked with JulieAnn at the alternative clinic for a few years managing a chronic (mysterious) health condition. She continued to show deep care and curiosity for me the entire time, always asking new questions to seek out the source of imbalance. She's a genius with herbs and will always alter the formulas depending on what is most active in your body/symptoms. I recall JulieAnn saying "if we aren't seeing results, I'm not doing my job" which was deeply reassuring and her promise proved to be true. She has been a great asset to my healing and I highly recommend the alternative clinic.
Pam Harting
Pam Harting
October 25, 2023
The atmosphere is very relaxing and quiet and the staff are welcoming. When starting treatment, my shoulders were very tight with restricted range of motion. I had old injuries to both rotator cuffs and though I had completed PT rehab on both, over time they became restricted again. After multiple treatments from David, I have much greater range of motion and can sleep at night without pain in my shoulders. The treatment was a little painful but not intolerable and definitely worth the outcome!!! Because I am still very active, I do need a "tune up" from time to time, but I'm so pleased with the results! Highly recommend!
Laura Stinson
Laura Stinson
October 25, 2023
peaceful environment, kind staff, compassionate and knowledgeable doctors. A year of being a dedicated patient has helped me resolve an affliction that has impaired me for at least 15 years. I highly recommend The Alternative Clinic for what ails you.
Travis Eaton
Travis Eaton
September 30, 2023
I love this place. They’ve helped me so much with their tea over the years. I’m so much better than I used to be.