Traditional Chinese Medicine


Treatments by Kelly Sun Acupuncture Wimbledon

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a holistic system of healthcare that is based on the principles of balance and harmony. In TCM, the body is seen as a complex network of interrelated parts that must work together in harmony to maintain good health. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to illness and disease. TCM seeks to restore balance and harmony by using a variety of therapies, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and dietary therapy. The effectiveness of TCM has been recognized for thousands of years, and it continues to be a popular form of alternative medicine in many parts of the world.

The history of TCM dates back more than 3,000 years, and it has evolved over time to become a sophisticated system of healthcare that is practiced extensively today. The principles of TCM are rooted in the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, which emphasises the importance of balance and harmony in all aspects of life. TCM has been used to treat a wide range of health conditions, from chronic pain and digestive disorders to fertility issues and emotional imbalances. The effectiveness of TCM is based on its ability to treat the underlying causes of illness, rather than just the symptoms, and its emphasis on promoting the body's natural healing processes.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture needles on a stone

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that dates back more than 3,000 years. It is based on the concept of qi, the body's vital energy or life force, which flows through the body along pathways or meridians. The goal of acupuncture is to stimulate specific points along these meridians to restore balance and promote healing.

The origins of acupuncture are steeped in myth and legend, but it is believed to have evolved from a combination of ancient remedies and philosophical principles. The first written records of acupuncture date back to the Han dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE), where it was used to treat a wide range of health conditions, from digestive disorders and menstrual cramps to anxiety and other stresses. Over the centuries, acupuncture has been refined and expanded, and today it is practiced all over the world. Despite its ancient roots, acupuncture continues to be a popular and effective treatment for a variety of health conditions, demonstrating the enduring power of this traditional healing practice.

 

Facial / Cosmetic Acupuncture

Acupuncture needles applied to the head

Facial acupuncture offers a natural alternative to invasive cosmetic surgery, chemical / glycolic peels and botox fillers.

Chinese doctors have been using points on the face for thousands of years to help combat signs of ageing in men and women and to help skin conditions.

Facial acupuncture, otherwise known as ‘facial rejuvenation acupuncture’ increases collagen production, and blood and lymph circulation to the face and scalp.

Facial acupuncture prevents the formation of wrinkles, minimises the appearance of fine lines and improves the process by which the skin regulates its quality and appearance. It helps restructure skin and relaxes facial muscles.

It stimulates the body’s ability to regenerate itself by accelerating anti-inflammatory activity and removing accumulative toxins from the skin.

Qi Treatment

Qi treatment with hands

Qi treatment involves the direct manipulation of the body’s life energy (qi or chi) to powerfully treat and heal specific conditions. The principles are very similar to acupuncture, but the practitioner’s energy is used directly with or without acupuncture needles.

This method of treatment is an advanced practice, and has the potential to have a deeper effect on the body and mind than acupuncture or herbs alone, and can be very effective if a deeper correction is required.

The Chinese concept of qi (pronounced "chee") is central to traditional Chinese medicine and refers to the body's vital energy or life force. According to this concept, qi flows through the body along pathways or meridians, and when this flow is blocked or disrupted, it can lead to illness and disease. In this way, the concept of qi is closely linked to medicine and health, and it provides a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of the body and mind.

Herbal Medicine

Herbs in glass jars

The origins of Chinese herbal medicine can be traced back to the Shang dynasty (1600 BCE - 1046 BCE), when medicinal herbs were first recorded in ancient texts. Over time, a sophisticated system of herbal remedies was developed, with practitioners using a wide range of plants, minerals, and animal products to treat a variety of health conditions. Chinese herbal medicine was also influenced by the principles of Taoism and Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of harmony and balance in all aspects of life. Today, Chinese herbal medicine continues to be an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, and it is often used in combination with other therapies, such as acupuncture and massage, to promote optimal health and well-being.

Cupping

Glass cups applied to the body

Cupping is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves placing glass or plastic cups on the skin to create a vacuum effect. This suction draws the skin and underlying tissue into the cups, creating a localised area of increased blood flow and promoting healing.

The origins of cupping can be traced back to ancient China, where it was used to treat a wide range of health conditions, from respiratory problems and digestive issues to muscular pain and menstrual cramps. Cupping was also incorporated into other traditional Chinese medical practices, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to provide a more comprehensive approach to healing. Today, cupping is still used in traditional Chinese medicine, as well as in other alternative healthcare systems, and it is often used in combination with other therapies to promote optimal health and well-being.

Infertility Treatment

A successful pregnancy

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can restore the natural balance of the human body and be effective in treating both male and female infertility. Treatment can improve a woman’s chances of conception through regulating the hormones, increasing the body’s basal temperature, thickening the lining of the uterus, and bringing on ovulation.

Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine can be extremely useful during an IVF cycle, both to increase the rate of success and to reduce side-effects. Studies have shown that the benefits may be quite large, a 65% increase in the chance of becoming pregnant, and a 91% increase in the number of live births.