What is acupuncture?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient system of medicine that has been developed and refined over thousands of years. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, single use sterile needles into particular locations on the body called acupuncture points. Acupuncture points are scattered all over the body, along channels or meridian pathways. These channels are believed to form an intricate network of communication and are responsible for moving energy or “qi”, blood and other fluids around the body.

Sometimes physical, mental or emotional imbalances can cause blockages or disruptions of this flow of energy and disease, illness or pain may arise. Acupuncture aims to re-establish this flow of energy. It’s a little like removing roadblock out of highways to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. Western medicine has assisted acupuncture with its understanding of nervous, endocrine and other circulatory systems, as well as clinical research to expand and enhance ancient knowledge.

Is acupuncture painful?

Many people are surprised about just how relaxing an acupuncture session is. The most common feedback is a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing after a treatment. The needles used are very fine, about the width of a hair, and often inserted only millimetres into the skin. Once inserted, you should be able to relax on the bed for about half an hour without feeling pain or discomfort – most people fall asleep! Common sensations include a feeling of heaviness or tingling around the point, which is seen as a positive sensation. It indicates the point has been activated. Often people feel nothing at all around the point and that is also fine. You are never left with a point in that is feeling painful or uncomfortable.

What about herbs?

Chinese herbal medicine’s origins can be traced back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest standing healthcare systems in the world. There are over 400 substances in the Chinese herbal material medica ranging from plant, animal and mineral extract.

Chinese herbs can come in a few different forms:

• Raw herbs – which requires boiling up the herbs and drinking the decoction in tea form
• Granulated herbs – can be dissolved in hot water like instant coffee and drunk (usually morning and night)
• Capsules and Pills – convenient and easy to take.

I generally prescribe herbs in capsule, pill or granulated form, which are quick to prepare, convenient and easy to use.  Chinese herbs can be taking by themselves or in conjunction with regular acupuncture treatments.

For free advice and more information on how acupuncture or herbs might assist you please contact Belinda today.