Traditional Chinese medicine or TCM is about wholesome wellness. It originated in ancient China many millennia ago and has been practiced in the region since then. Now, practice of TCM has spread all across the world.

Traditional Chinese Medicine – How does it Work?

TCM is based on the concept of energy flow inside the body. The healing system of TCM works on balancing the life force (qi) inside the body, which helps in restoring optimal health.

TCM concepts also include balancing ‘yin’ and ‘yang’ – the opposing energy forces in the body. TCM also considers the presence of the elements such as earth, fire, metal, wood, and water inside the body and their effect on health.

Common TCM practices include acupuncture, herbal medicine, and others involving the connection between the mind and the body. It can include exercises, nutrition, and massages.

Acupuncture involves use of needles on the meridians or energy points to clear qi blocks. Herbal medicine includes intake of herbs, which can range from plants, flowers, roots, minerals, and other substances. Exercises like tai chi help the body and the mind relax with a series of movements practiced mindfully.

TCM works on the energy system in the body. It is a holistic practice that treats not only the body but also the mind and the emotions that can cause energy imbalances.

Is TCM Safe?

TCM is a natural healing system and is completely safe. Healing modalities like acupuncture produce no side effects. But like other medical and healing systems, TCM also needs to be performed by qualified practitioners only.

So, if you are keen on TCM treatments, take your time to find a licensed and qualified practitioner in your local area. For instance, there are many clinics for traditional Chinese medicine in Houston, TX. But all these clinics may not be the same in terms of qualification and experience of the practitioners, level of service, and professionalism. So, conduct proper online research and check websites of leading TCM clinics in your city. Learn more about their practitioners and read client testimonials. If someone you know has undergone TCM treatments, you can also ask them for recommendations.

When acupuncture is performed well, there are no risks of side effects. With herbal remedies, a qualified practitioner will know how to administer the right herbs in the correct doses to avoid any problems.

What Health Problems can TCM Treat?

TCM healing systems are effective for a range of health problems.

Acupuncture is extremely effective in treating muscle pain, skin disorders, obesity, infertility, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, male sexual dysfunction, and menopause. It is also helpful in treating depression and alleviating anxiety. It can help relieve mental and physical stress. Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy during cancer treatments. It is also beneficial in helping stroke survivors to regain mobility.

Herbal remedy consists of thousands of herbs to treat sleep disorders, nausea, infertility, indigestion, liver problems, inflammation, skin disorders, aging, and many other health problems.

TCM is for anyone desiring well-being, good health, and prevention of diseases. Energy imbalances and stress can cause many health problems. Practices like acupuncture can help balance energy in the body and keep health problems at bay. For those not keen on taking pain medicines can opt for acupuncture for effective treatment of their condition.

In some instances causes of many symptoms are not clear. In such cases, Western medicine doesn’t really work well. But since TCM works on balancing energy, a qualified practitioner may be able to identify your condition and treat it effectively.

Finding TCM Practitioners

For TCM treatments, it is important to find qualified practitioners working at reputed wellness clinics. Look for practitioners who have studied at leading TCM schools such as the College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).

Look for practitioners with experience in providing treatment for your specific problem. For example, if you want to seek treatment for obesity or infertility then specifically ask a practitioner’s experience in this regard. During your initial consultation session, see to it if the practitioner answers your questions patiently and helps you understand the treatment. If not then that practitioner may not be right for you.