Complementary Treatments
Chinese Herbal Medicine | Dietary & Lifestyle Advice
Complementary Treatments
As a Chinese medicine practitioner based in Surbiton, Surrey, I offer a holistic approach to your health. Complementary therapies are designed to work together, providing a well-rounded plan for your wellbeing.
Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM), dietary therapy, and lifestyle advice are deeply rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Together, they form a cohesive system that promotes health and wellbeing.
What Are Complementary Treatments?
The following treatments work alongside acupuncture to support your health in a holistic way:
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Customised herbal formulas tailored to your individual needs.
- Dietary Advice: I am not a nutritionist but I can provide guidance on foods from a TCM perspective, which are suited to your individual constitution and current health challenges.
- Lifestyle Advice: Practical tips to reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance your daily life.
By integrating these therapies, we can create a comprehensive plan to support your long-term wellbeing.
Chinese Herbal Medicine and Lifestyle Advice
CHM is one of the oldest and most widely used forms of medicine. In TCM, herbs are selected based on their energetic properties and formulas take into account your individual constitution, symptoms, and health goals.
CHM can be used to support a wide range of conditions, from digestive issues and fatigue to hormonal imbalances and chronic pain. It is often prescribed alongside acupuncture to enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.
How CHM Works
I typically recommend CHM in the form of dried granules which you mix with boiled water and drink twice a day as a tea. The taste can take a while to get used to, but I often find that after while patients begin to love their CHM teas and enjoy the ritual of making their tea and the earthiness of the flavours.
I am a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine and I only source my herbal granules from their list of approved suppliers. In the UK, we only use plant-based herbal medicine for internal use. We do not use animal products.
Safety and Quality
All herbal formulas prescribed are:
- Sourced from the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine’s list of approved suppliers. In the UK, we only use plant-based herbal medicine for internal use.
- Tailored to your individual needs, ensuring they complement your health goals.
- Used under professional supervision to avoid interactions with medications or pre-existing conditions.
Important notes:
- Always inform me of any medications or supplements you’re taking.
- Certain herbs should be avoided during pregnancy—always consult a qualified practitioner before use.
Dietary & Lifestyle Advice
In TCM dietary therapy is a cornerstone of holistic health. What you eat can either support or disrupt your body’s natural balance. Dietary advice in TCM is not about strict diets or calorie counting—it’s about understanding how different foods affect your qi, blood, and organ systems, and choosing foods that nourish your unique constitution.
Lifestyle advice in TCM focuses on creating routines that align with the body’s natural rhythms, reducing stress, and promoting overall wellbeing. Small, sustainable changes can have a profound impact on your health.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
1. Personalised Consultation
During your session, I’ll discuss your health history, current symptoms, dietary habits, and lifestyle. This helps me create a personalised plan that supports your goals.
2. Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription
If herbal medicine is appropriate for you, I’ll prescribe a customised formula tailored to your needs. I’ll provide clear instructions on how to take your herbs and what to expect.
3. Dietary and Lifestyle Guidance
I’ll offer practical advice on foods, routines, and habits that support your health. This may include simple recipes, meal ideas, or tips for incorporating more movement and rest into your day.
4. Integration with Acupuncture
Complementary treatments are designed to work alongside your acupuncture sessions. We’ll discuss how to integrate these therapies for the best results, whether it’s through a combined treatment plan or separate sessions.
5. Follow-Up and Adjustments
Follow-up sessions allow me to monitor your progress, adjust your herbal formula as needed, and refine your dietary and lifestyle advice. This ensures your plan evolves with your changing needs.
Who are these treatments suitable For?
Complementary treatments are suitable for anyone looking to enhance their health and wellbeing in a holistic way. They can be particularly beneficial for those:
- Managing chronic conditions like fatigue, digestive issues, or hormonal imbalances.
- Recovering from illness or injury.
- Seeking natural support for fertility, pregnancy, or postpartum health.
- Wanting to optimise their energy, sleep, or emotional balance.
- Looking to complement their acupuncture treatments with additional therapies.
Appointment
Want to make booking or have a question?
If you’re curious about how complementary treatments like herbal medicine and dietary advice could support your health, I’d be delighted to discuss your individual needs in confidence. Please get in touch to book a consultation or explore how we can create a personalised plan for your wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I take Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Herbal formulas are typically prescribed as teas, tinctures, powders, or capsules. I’ll provide clear instructions on dosage and timing based on your individual needs.
Are there any side effects from herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. However, some people may experience mild digestive changes or allergic reactions. Always inform me of any medications or supplements you’re taking.
What dietary advice will I receive?
Dietary advice in TCM is personalised to your constitution and health goals. It may include recommendations for warming or cooling foods, seasonal eating, and mindful meal timing.