Abstracts

Dr. Diane van der Vliet

Title: Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Growing Public Health Challenge and the Role of Acupuncture

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Diane van der Vliet

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Growing Public Health Challenge and the Role of Acupuncture

Abstract

Diane van der Vliet is a medical doctor specialised in acupuncture and auriculotherapy, with recognised expertise in the integrative management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in older adults, with a rapidly increasing incidence in industrialised countries and limited therapeutic options, particularly for its dry form. As vision loss profoundly affects autonomy, quality of life and mental health, there is a growing need to explore integrative approaches that go beyond conventional ophthalmic care.

This presentation introduces AMD in accessible terms and reviews current evidence on acupuncture as a complementary strategy in its management. Published studies and meta-analyses suggest that acupuncture may improve visual function, reduce central macular thickness and enhance macular microcirculation. These data will be complemented by real-world clinical experience and the integration of auriculotherapy and the AcuNova (John Boel) eye acupuncture approach into an individualised treatment protocol.

In light of recently published international clinical practice guidelines recognising acupuncture among supportive interventions for AMD, this lecture highlights how integrative medicine can contribute meaningful, patient-centred options—particularly for dry AMD, for which no curative treatment currently exists. This session aims to provide auditors from diverse professional backgrounds with a clear, evidence-informed overview of why and how acupuncture may have a role in the integrative care of patients with macular degeneration.

Biography

Dr. Diane van der Vliet is a medical doctor and recognised expert in Acupuncture and Auricular Acupuncture, with a special focus on supportive care in oncology. Based in Lyon, France, she specialises in acupuncture and Chinese energetic techniques to help cancer patients manage treatment-related side effects and regain balance, energy, and quality of life. Dr van der Vliet has reinforced her expertise by a training in Clinical Oncology at the prestigious Gustave Roussy Institute in France. Her clinical expertise is enriched by a solid background in pharmaceutical research and global clinical trials, having served as Director of Clinical Development for over a decade. She has authored numerous scientific publications and regularly contributes to medical conferences and regulatory work. In addition to her clinical and scientific credentials, Dr van der Vliet is deeply committed to integrative, patient-centred care. She regularly leads group acupressure workshops at the Centre Ressource in Lyon, a supportive care centre for individuals living with or recovering from cancer. These workshops empower patients to use self-acupressure techniques to enhance vitality, reduce anxiety, and better manage common side effects of cancer treatments—promoting autonomy and well-being throughout the healing journey. At the 16ᵗʰ Global Webinar on Traditional and Integrative Medicine, Dr Van Der Vliet will share a comprehensive evidence-based review of acupuncture’s role in oncology supportive care, drawing on her dual expertise in Clinical Science and Acupuncture. Her work exemplifies the fusion of rigorous scientific inquiry with compassionate, integrative healing practices.

Dr. Kevin KF Ng

Title: From Fragmentation to Adaptation: The Emergence of Adaptive Medicine

Plenary Speaker

Dr. Kevin KF Ng

Former Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Miami, USA

Abstract

Despite extraordinary advances in modern medicine, chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, autoimmune conditions, and neurodegeneration continue to rise worldwide. This paradox reveals a fundamental limitation in the traditional, reductionist, organ-centered model of healthcare. While highly effective for acute and infectious diseases, this model struggles to address the complex, multifactorial nature of chronic illness.

Adaptive Medicine proposes a new framework based on the body’s inherent capacity to adjust, repair, and restore balance in response to physical, metabolic, and psychological stress. Human physiology evolved for survival in dynamic environments, relying on interconnected adaptive systems that regulate oxidative stress, inflammation, neuroendocrine function, energy metabolism, immunity, mitochondrial health, and vascular integrity.

Rather than viewing disease as an isolated defect, Adaptive Medicine reframes chronic illness as a state of maladaptation — a breakdown in the flexible, dynamic balance among these biological axes. Health, therefore, is not defined as the absence of stress, but as the capacity to adapt, recover, and maintain resilience.

This approach integrates pharmacology with targeted lifestyle and nutritional interventions, recognizing food, movement, sleep, and psychosocial environment as powerful biological signals. By restoring adaptive capacity rather than merely suppressing symptoms, Adaptive Medicine offers a unifying, preventive, and regenerative paradigm for the future of healthcare and public health.

Biography

Dr. Kevin KF Ng, a distinguished pharmacologist, made groundbreaking contributions to the field, including discovering the adrenergic neuron-blocking action of emetine and the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the lung. He collaborated with Nobel Laureate Sir John R. Vane and developed an ACE inhibitor from snake venom. After a successful academic career, including over 150 clinical trials, Dr. Ng shifted his focus to "Food as Medicine," emphasizing phytochemicals and boswellic acids to complement traditional pain management

 Dr. Beverly Lawrence

Title: Holistic Strategies for Neuropathy: Integrating TCM, Essential Oils, Lymphatic Support & Self-Care for Improved Nerve Function

Plenary Speaker

Dr. Beverly Lawrence

Bear Healing Center & Dancing Bear Enlightenment Academy, USA

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathy arises from a wide spectrum of causes, including diabetes, chemotherapy, metabolic disorders, circulatory compromise, autoimmune conditions, and idiopathic factors. Yet many forms share common underlying patterns: inflammation, impaired microcirculation, metabolic stress, and altered nerve signaling. This presentation introduces a comprehensive holistic framework that integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Essential Oils, lymphatic support techniques, and practical self-care strategies to improve nerve function and reduce pain.

Drawing upon over fifteen years of clinical experience as a licensed acupuncturist and aromatherapy practitioner, this approach bridges Western pathophysiology with TCM concepts such as Qi and Blood stagnation, Damp accumulation, and organ system deficiency. Special attention is given to lymphatic stagnation as a contributing factor, recognizing its role in inflammatory waste buildup, microvascular impairment, and heightened nerve sensitivity, while emphasizing that neuropathy is inherently multifactorial.

Participants will learn an integrative protocol that includes:

  • Essential Oils shown to support circulation, reduce neuroinflammation, and modulate pain pathways
  • Targeted acupressure and meridian techniques to restore Qi flow and calm neuropathic signaling
  • Lymphatic activation methods to enhance detoxification and reduce peripheral inflammation
  • Evidence-informed self-care practices that improve mobility, sleep, and nervous system resilience

Biography

Beverly Lawrence, Ph.D., L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist, aromatherapist, and integrative medicine researcher with over fifteen years of clinical experience. She served as the primary investigator for a 2019 study examining scalar energy as a supportive modality for neuropathy; the findings were shared as a poster and online digital exhibit at a podiatry conference in 2020. Dr. Lawrence integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine, Essential Oils, lymphatic support, and somatic self-care to address complex neuropathic conditions. She is the founder of both the Dancing Bear Healing Center and the Dancing Bear Enlightenment Academy, where she teaches multidisciplinary approaches to healing, nervous system regulation, and holistic wellness. Her forthcoming book, The Neuropathy Healing System™, brings together ancient medical systems and contemporary scientific perspectives.

Dr. Manfred Doepp

Title: Natural Remedies Against Covid-19 Virus and Long Covid Syndrome

Plenary Speaker

Dr. Manfred Doepp

Head of Holistic Center, Switzerland

Abstract

Natural remedies exist that are able to damage or even destroy viruses. Known are for example: Cystus-incanus (https://www.cystus-pandalis.de/graubehaarte-zistrose), the Capeland Pelargonium (Pelargonium sidoides, https://www.umckaloabo.de/de/umckaloabo-produkte) and CDL (Chlordioxid).  A second problem are the spike proteins that occupy ACE-2 receptors in the organism, especially in the intima of the blood vessels, the heart (1, 2) and the brain (3). The mRNA from the vaccines mislead cell ribosomes to produce spike proteins for a long time. A third problem is the antibodies to mRNA that occur via shedding even in nonvaccinated individuals and cause autoaggressions, e.g. autoaggressive mitochondriopathy. 

We have developed herbal mixtures against A) viruses, and B) spike proteins. A contains extracts from: Dandelion leaves, Citrus peels, Licorice roots, Pine needles, Pomegranate peels, and Red kitchen onions. These ingredients achieve the listed goals (see www.cellavita.de). For the Long Covid Syndrome (often Post Vac Syndrome), the autoaggressive processes are in the center. For this we have developed the so-called "Tria Mystica" (B), which contains as ingredients extracts of frankincense and myrrh as well as colloidal gold. Additionally Quercetin and Nattikinase should be applied. 

In the case of myocardial or pericardial infestation (4, 5) by spike proteins, the most effective drug is Strophanthin (in the form of 3mg enteric-coated capsules, g-Strophanthin = Ouabain). If the brain is affected, Huperzine A (Lycopodium extract) and Methylene Blue have proven most effective. Additionally Ginkgo biloba 240mg should be applied. We have had very good experiences with those remedies. 

Biography

Dr. of Nuclear Medicine (Germany), General Doctor (Switzerland), Expert in Energy Medicine Born in Bad Berleburg/Germany. Medical studies in Munich and Giessen, exams and doctorate in 1971. Scientific assistant at the clinical centre of the Justus Liebig University at Giessen until 1978. Senior physician for nuclear medicine at the clinical centre in Hanau/Germany until 1985. Founder of the "International Institute for Experiential Medicine" www.iifeh.de ; Founder of the "Diagnostic Centre for Mineral Analysis and Spectroscopy DCMS. From 2011 to 2018 Head Physician of the Quantisana Health Centre for Holistic Diagnostics and Therapy in Switzerland. Since 2018 Head of the HolisticCenter in Abtwil CH 9030. More than 400 oral and written publications in the fields of Integrative and Energy Medicine. Many videos on Youtube, Google and complementary portals. Reviewer of international journals. Co-founder and Deputy President of DGEIM (German Society for Energetic and Information Medicine, Stuttgart www.dgeim.de ).

Yuval Appelbaum

Title: AI-Generated Protein Combinations with High Biosimilarity: A Novel Approach to Addressing Gut Health and Inflammation

Speaker

Yuval Appelbaum

CTO, Maolac, Israel

Abstract

Chronic inflammation is a significant factor contributing to systemic complications and gut dysfunction. Protein combinations with high biosimilarity to human breast milk proteins offer a promising avenue for addressing inflammation and promoting gut health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory efficacy of an AI-generated combination of bio-functional proteins derived from bovine colostrum, and to investigate its potential for integration into functional nutrition applications.

Ex-vivo experiments were conducted using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) activated by OKT3 to simulate inflammatory conditions. The protein combination’s effects on T-cell activation and INF-γ secretion were compared to colostrum powder, lactoferrin, and curcumin. The optimized protein combination demonstrated a significant reduction in T-cell activation (51%) and INF-γ secretion (14%), outperforming all comparators.

In-vivo efficacy was assessed using a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) mouse model induced by oxazolone, where ear inflammation served as a measure of treatment effectiveness. Mice treated with the protein combination exhibited a 39% reduction in ear thickness after 48 hours, compared to 29% in untreated controls, indicating accelerated recovery. Pathological analysis further revealed a decrease in macrophage infiltration and epidermal thickness in treated groups, confirming the formulation's anti-inflammatory efficacy.

The study demonstrates that AI-generated protein combinations with high biosimilarity offer a robust solution for managing gut inflammation and promoting immune health. This formulation provides a promising foundation for developing functional nutrition products targeting chronic inflammation and gut health disorders.

Biography

Yuval Appelbaum is the CTO of Maolac, an Israeli FoodTech and biotech company specializing in advanced colostrum-derived functional ingredients for health, nutrition, and wellness applications. With a B.Sc. in Biotechnology Engineering, Yuval leads the company’s R&D, production scale-up, and engineering strategy, overseeing process development, production technologies, protein characterization, and quality systems. Driven by a passion for innovation, precision, and scientific excellence, Yuval works closely with global partners to bring clinically-supported bovine colostrum proteins to market while ensuring full compliance with FDA, EU, and Israeli regulatory standards. Beyond R&D, Yuval is deeply involved in patent strategies, product launches, and operational growth, contributing to Maolac’s expanding international presence.

Dr. Cloe Couturier

Title: Core link Intelligence Integrating in Cranial Osteopathy with Medical Qigong

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Cloe Couturier

Cloecouturier.com, USA

Abstract

CranioSacralQigong represents an integrative process of cranial osteopathy and the ancient wisdom of Qigong, focusing on the profound relationship between cranial bone movement, primary respiratory motion, and Qi, the vitality of our core link intelligence. Rooted in the principles of cranial osteopathy, this practice emphasizes the subtle yet vital movements of the cranial bones that facilitate the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, essential for maintaining our neurological health.

At the heart of this integration is the concept of the dural tube, the external meningeal unit that encases the central nervous system. Understanding its structure and function enhances our awareness of the inherent Tides within our bodies—dynamic expressions of life that reflect our core link intelligence. Unlike manual therapies, CranioSacralQigong is a personal practice which teaches us to follow and modulate these intrinsic rhythms, unveiling our natural connection to the cosmic flow of Qi.

Through the practice of Qigong, we engage with the balance of Yin and Yang, alongside the central meridians, Ren and Du, which further amplifies our understanding of health and wellness. This conscious engagement fosters a deeper awareness of our physical and energetic selves, embedding the way to embody a self-regulatory life skill.

CranioSacralQigong invites practitioners to cultivate and develop this awareness, facilitating a profound connection to their core link intelligence and enhancing their overall well-being. As we explore these integrative pathways, we unlock the potential for greater health, vitality, and conscious living, enriching our journey toward holistic wellness.

This integration is based upon the movement of cranial bones and primary respiratory motion, followed by the understanding of the dural tube in the Craniosacral paradigm and then the Tides, and parallels with Qigong, the cosmic flow, and the central channels of yin and yang, REN and DU.  This context elaborates on the consciousness of our core-link intelligence and how with qigong practice we develop and gain the ability to potentialize and activate this motion within ourselves, and how the CranioSacralQigong practice stems from this understanding. 

Biography

Dr. Cloe Couturier, a medical Qigong doctor (China) and certified osteopath (France, UK), is an advanced certified medical Qigong instructor, a certified Integrative Qigong Practitioner, and Craniosacral Diplomate. Developer of CranioSacralQigong®, she’s a published author with over 30 years of clinical practice in Palm Beach County, Florida. Awarded “Medical Qigong Master 23 by World Congress Integrative Health. Cloecouturier.com the developer of craniosacralqigong.com

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