WHAT WE OFFER
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a method of treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine* (TCM) which involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points (acupoints) along the body. The points are chosen following a consultation and diagnosis by the practitioner and aim to improve the circulation of Qi and blood and restore balance and harmony to the body when it is no longer functioning optimally.
Only a very mild sensation is usually felt when the needles are inserted and they are retained for approximately 30 minutes. During the session a sense of deep relaxation is often experienced.
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If you are interested in the difference between Acupuncture and Dry Needling, please take a look at this article published in the Australian Journal of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.
Gua Sha (Scrubbing) and Cupping
Gua Sha is a therapeutic technique which aims to bring deep blockages and toxins to the surface to be released. Firstly, medicated oil is applied to the area requiring treatment. The practitioner then repeatedly rubs the surface of the skin with a tortoiseshell comb, activating the flow of Qi and blood. Where there are blockages and toxins present, a red/purple discolouration will appear on the skin. This usually fades within a few days.
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This treatment is commonly used on painful disorders such as stiff necks and acute and chronic back or shoulder pain.
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Cupping has a similar benefit to Gua Sha but is more point specific. Glass cups are suctioned on to areas of the body requiring treatment. Cupping produces blood congestion at the site and therefore stimulates circulation and removes blockages. Again, where there is poor circulation, a red/purple mark may be seen at the site of the cup. This will usually fade within a few days.
*TCM – Traditional Chinese Medicine is a system of primary health care with an uninterrupted history of development in China and other parts of East Asia dating back thousands of years. It adopts a holistic approach to understanding disease processes and its focus is as much on prevention of illness as it is on treatment. The underlying concept is that when there is good health, an abundant supply of Qi or energy flows throughout the body via a web of channels/meridians. If there is a short supply of Qi or it becomes blocked, then the body fails to maintain harmony, balance and order and disease or illness follow.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
The origins of Chinese herbal medicine can be traced back at least five thousand years, making it one of the oldest health care systems in the world. Chinese herbs are prescribed to specifically match each individual’s health condition.
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Most substances used in Chinese Herbal Medicine are of plant origin and some are commonly found in your kitchen, such as cinnamon, ginger and cardamom, while others such as chrysanthemum and dandelion would be found in the garden. Traditional remedies that are derived from endangered species are not used at East Meets West Chinese Medicine.
We utilise high quality, TGA approved herbs in the form or powders and pills. We are also able to have herbal formulas made into drop form for ease of consumption for children.
