How do the herbs work?

The herbs work by balancing the eight different parts of the body, Yin-Yang, Qi-Blood, Excess-Deficiency and Interior-Exterior. This balance is achieved within the different organs of the body. One organ may be deficient in Yin for example, whilst the other excessive in Yang. A formula is made up of a number of herbs, each one having a specific action. One herb will go to a particular organ and perform an action whilst another herb will go to another specific organ and perform an action. Together they help each other re-balance the mind, body and spirit to achieve a holistic harmony.

Are acupuncture and herbs safe?

Yes, acupuncture has been shown in a number of studies to be perfectly safe. Herbs have had some bad press in recent times and some of them have even been banned. This was caused by a number of unqualified people using Chinese herbs for various disorders. When herbs are used by a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner they are perfectly safe.

Are animal products used in Chinese medicine?

In China yes they are. However, it is against the law to use animal products in the UK. April Kim is against the use of animal products and has strict codes of ethics in place not to use animal products in his tailor-made prescriptions.

What is cupping?

Cupping is the placement of glass cups on specific areas of the body using a vacuum created by putting a flame inside the cup before it's placed on the body. They are only used in certain conditions, for example if there is too much heat or toxins in the body. They act by drawing out bad Qi. Cupping is not painful but it will leave a dull mark on the body for about 7-10 days and then it will go away by itself.

What is moxibustion?

Moxibustion is made up of a specific herb that it lit and placed on certain acupoints to heat them up. It is only used in conditions where there is cold or a blockage in the body. Moxibustion is not painful, just a little hot and it may leave a red mark on the body for a few days.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a special form of treatment that uses a jade or plastic comb to scrap the body. Oil is applied to the area before it is scrapped. It's used as a diagnostic tool as well as a form of treatment to remove blockages in the body. It isn't painful but will leave marks like cupping for 7-10 days before fading away.

What is Tuina?

Tuina is the ancient massage art form from China. It involves unique massage and manipulation techniques on tired, tense muscles as well as on specific acupuncture points and meridians. A typical Tuina massage section can last from 30 minutes for the back to 1 hour for the whole body.