FAQs

Why do you look at my tongue?

Your tongue is used as a very important source for diagnosis, as it's the only external organ of the body with visual indicators. I look at the tongue to measure various factors, such as; shape, quality, texture, coating, and colour of the tongue, because of its many relationships and connections in the body and the internal organs.

What should I wear?

Loose fitting clothes that easily rolls up over your elbows and knees, without cutting off circulation are advised. Your clothes are kept on for acupuncture, as points on your arms and legs will most likely be chosen. However for Cupping and Gua Sha you usually need to take clothes off  and towels are provided to cover and keep you warm.

Why do I need to take herbs?

The aim of Chinese herbal is to help you regain balance in your body and to strengthen your body's resistance to disease. There are more than 450 different herbal substances commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine, some commonly known ones are cinnamon, liquorice, ginger and garlic.  Herbal formulae are specifically formulated for your own unique condition and the formula is often adjusted and modified during the treatment period until the desired effect is reached. 

There are several ways in which you can consume herbs; ground raw herbs, powered ground raw herbs, pills and capsules and it is important to choose the correct form that suits you to ensure you take them,  as herbs do not work if you do not take them as prescribed. Often clients find the taste of herbs challenging, especially raw herbs, so may opt for capsule or pill form to avoid the taste.

How long will it take to get better?

This can vary, for chronic acute cases the treatments can often take longer however you can often experience a shift after the initial session. Rest assured treatment goals will be mapped out in the initial session that are realistic for both you and me.

Why do you feel my pulse?

The pulse is measured in both Western medicine and Chinese medicine, but there are key differences. In Western medicine, we typically measure the heart rate, which is taken with blood pressure as part of a standard physical exam. In Chinese medicine, pulse diagnosis is a significantly more developed art form, a tool that practitioners use to assess the health of all the major organ systems of the body.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Often you won't feel the needles being inserted, because they are thin and gently inserted. Once a needle reaches its intended depth, you're likely to feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation. You may also feel a heavy or electric sensation. Feelings of warmth may arise at the acupuncture points. Some points have no sensation at all and some points are more sensitive than others. The feeling often stops after a few of seconds allowing you to drift into a state of deep relaxation.

Only single-use, sterile, high quality, disposable needles are used.