Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts which have been developed in China and are based on a tradition of more than 2,000 years, including various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage (Tui na), exercise (qigong), and dietary therapy.

The doctrines of Chinese medicine are rooted in books such as the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon and the Treatise on Cold Damage, as well as in cosmological notions like yin-yang and the five phases.

As a member of both the BAcC and the RCHM and therefore following strict codes of practice to ensure the safety of any patient receiving TCM, I would say that TCM is safe. However there are certain cases and certain clients for whom TCM may not be an appropriate form of treatment. The initial consultation would identify such cases.

Individual’s experience of needling varies greatly. It is important that the needling sensation is felt by the individual and that the information is fed back in order to know that the treatment has been delivered effectively. Some people describe the sensation as a “Dull ache” or a “small sting”. It has not been my experience that any client feels an intolerable sensation.

This varies depending on the nature of the medication. Herbal Medicines will most commonly be given in concentrated forms i.e. powders but may also be given as raw herbs which can be made into an infusion. (A full information sheet will be given for each treatment prescribed).