Some questions and answers about TCM

What is TCM?

Traditional chinese medicine is a system of diagnosis and healthcare that has evolved over the last 3,000 years. The Chinese approach to understanding the human body is unique. It is based on the holistic concept of the universe outlined in the spiritual insights of Daoism, and it has produced a highly sophisticated set of practices designed to cure illness and to maintain health and well-being. These practices include acupuncture, herbal remedies, diet, and exercises such as Qigong. The last twenty years or so have seen a dramatic increase in the popularity of these therapies and they now enjoy a growing respect, not only from patients who have experienced their benefits at first hand but also from the medical fraternity in the West, who were initially extremely sceptical.

How does acupuncture work?

According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy - known as Qi - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels beneath the skin. Qi consists of equal and opposite qualities - Yin and Yang - and when these become unbalanced, illness may result. By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body's own healing response and help restore its natural balance.

How does the flow of Qi become disturbed?

The flow of Qi can be disturbed by a number of factors. These include emotional states such as anxiety, stress, anger, fear or grief, poor nutrition, weather conditions, hereditary factors, infections, poisons and trauma.

How does a TCM acupuncturist make a diagnosis?

To make an appropriate TCM diagnosis the acupuncturist will ask about your current symptoms and what treatment you have read more