Diagnoses procedure

See a flash movie about the procedure

1. Have you been consulting a Chinese Medicine Practitioner ?

It is simple, easy and will not be a tough experience!

CONSULTING A PRACTITIONER

The initial consultation may take as long as an hour. Your health is assessed by means of the "Four Examinations" of TCM:

Looking: The practitioner observes all the visible evidence of your state of health, particularly your tongue, the tone of your skin and hair, and the way you move.
Examine the tongue, your face and your skin to reveal vital clues about your pattern of symptoms

Listening and smelling: The sound of your voice and breathing is noted, as is any distinctive body odor.

Asking: The practitioner asks about your family history, habits, body functions, and any symptoms of poor health.

Pulse-taking and Touching: The pulse is checked for quality, rhythm, and strength Areas of discomfort or pain are examined by touch.

Some western herbalists also check lungs and heart by listening with a stethoscope.

TAKING THE PULSE : TCM identify three different pulse points on each wrist. The locations are related to meridian pathways, said to channel the life energy known as "qi" through the body

Touch alone determines up to 28 pulse types, such as "deep" or "slippery"

The diagnosis hinges on your unique pattern of disharmony. While a Western doctor might diagnose many people as suffering from high blood pressure, the TCM practitioner would take into account particular factors such your pulse rate, the condition of your tongue, teeth, and urine and how well you eat and sleep. On the basis of the diagnosis, she will prescribe an herbal remedy tailored to your individual pattern of disharmony possibly supplemented with acupuncture.

PRECAUTIONS

• Always consult a licensed practitioner who is fully qualified to prescribe herbal remedies.

• If you have any doubts or questions, ask the practitioner and ask him/her to explain clearly to you.

• Seek medical advice from your family doctor if you any doubts or require second opinions.

Seek medical advice from your family doctor before taking herbs if you are pregnant, or if you have ever had hepatitis or other liver diseases.