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Understanding Meridians and How They’re Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine

If you are interested in studying Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or are familiar with some of its practices, you may have heard of the term “meridian”. One of the key aspects of TCM, meridians are channels through which energy — known as Qi — flows in the body. In this blog, we’ll explore the basics Read More

TCM Tips for 2024 Based on Your Zodiac Animal

Did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the Chinese zodiac share many similarities? Both systems are deeply rooted in Chinese culture and philosophy, and share a common framework that emphasises balance and harmony with the five elements. Historically, TCM practitioners even considered a person’s astrological sign when assessing their health. For the Year Read More

13 Everyday Ingredients Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine

When you hear the term “Traditional Chinese Medicine” you may immediately think of acupuncture, cupping, remedial massage or Tai Chi. What you may forget are the many herbal remedies used in TCM, which are actually very common and accessible! Many of these everyday ingredients are likely already in your fridge or pantry at home. In Read More

How the Five Elements are Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to Treat Various Health Conditions

The Five Elements Theory, a key concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is used to explain health imbalances and conditions. It is rooted in the Chinese philosophy of Wuxing which also appears in Eastern astrology, feng shui, and other early Chinese fields of study. The five fundamental elements or ‘phases’ are wood, water, fire, earth Read More

2023 End-of-Year Dinner

The annual SITCM End-of-Year Dinner took place on 3 December 2023, with over 200 members of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) community in attendance. Mixed among the lively performances, raffle draws and academic awards were various speeches relating to Chinese medicine education. The speakers each had a valuable message to share with the TCM community; Read More

Summertime Health Tips Backed by Traditional Chinese Medicine

Living in accordance with the teachings of Traditional Chinese Medicine means adapting your lifestyle and eating habits to reflect the season. During the summer months, particularly in Australia where temperatures can soar and the sun is strong, seasonally-specific practices can help the body and mind stay in alignment, minimising ill health and allowing you to Read More

What to Expect from a Career in Traditional Chinese Medicine

There’s no doubt that Traditional Chinese Medicine is a fascinating field, and one that is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world. Depending on your interests, a qualification in TCM can lead you down a wide variety of career paths including:   Acupuncturist Herbal medicine practitioner Remedial massage therapist General health consultant (like a GP Read More

How to Integrate Chinese Medicine Into Your Everyday Life

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)  is a holistic approach to health based on the understanding that the mind, body, and spirit are all connected and that illness and disease arise when there is some kind of energetic imbalance in one or more of these areas. While TCM practitioners are highly trained to use specific healing techniques Read More

Why Chinese Medicine Simply Works?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient practice that has been used to treat illness for over 2,000 years. Unlike Western medicine, which views the human body as a machine with different parts that can be treated individually, Chinese Medicine takes a totally holistic approach. According to Chinese medicine, the mind, body, and spirit all Read More

Chinese Medicine: The Common Misconceptions

Complementary medicines such as Chinese Medicine have been growing in popularity in recent years, but a few misconceptions remain. At the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we have over 35 years of experience in providing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) education and continue to contribute significantly to the development of traditional Chinese medicine education in Read More

What Are the Benefits of Chinese Cupping?

  There is a famous Chinese saying: “Acupuncture and cupping, more than half the ills cured.” The wealth of knowledge within traditional Chinese medicine has been valued in China for millennia and has recently gained global popularity with celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Michael Phelps drawing attention to its benefits. Cupping is an especially pleasant Read More

Acupuncture: What You Need to Know

  Acupuncture is one of the various treatments that fall under the umbrella of Traditional Chinese Medicine. By inserting needles into specific points along the body, acupuncture practitioners believe that the body’s energy flow will re-balance. This concept has existed since ancient times. Today, many Western acupuncture practitioners view acupuncture points as places to stimulate Read More

Massage: What Are the Benefits?

  Massage has many benefits that have been researched and stated for many decades. People may seek massage treatments for relaxation and improving function and health-related quality of life. The benefits of massage have been supported by current research evidence (1-3). This is why massages have long been offered as part of physical therapy practices Read More

What Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Treat?

  Over the last few decades, there has been an emerging trend to use functional and alternative medicines, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, as many are claiming that the traditional western doctors not proving lasting treatments for certain chronic conditions. In general, people do not visit a doctor until there is a serious issue or disease, Read More

Frequently Asked Questions about Traditional Chinese Medicine

Q: How is Traditional Chinese Medicine recognised in Australia and globally? A: TCM had been nationally registered in Australia in July 2012. And from then on, many countries in the World followed: They are Hungary, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Swaziland, Philippines, Chili, etc. Swaziland has included the acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine into their Read More

What is Chinese Medicine Good for?

People choose Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for a wide variety of reasons. Though they may be seeking relief from specific symptoms, TCM looks for the underlying cause of the symptoms and treats the individual, not just the disease. TCM includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and remedial massage. These practices are gentle, non-invasive approaches to restoring Read More

The State of Acupuncture in Australia

The Current State of Integration: Acupuncture and “bio-medicine.” Acupuncture is taking its place among treatments for a range of conditions throughout the world. In Australia, ten percent of the population has had acupuncture treatment by physicians or acupuncturists in private clinics. Over 10 million visits are made to acupuncturists every year. 80 percent of general Read More

Booking Herbal Treatments

Have you ever considered an herbal treatment? Now is the time to book your consultation – it may help you to take control of your health more effectively than ever before. What is an Herbal Treatment? An herbal treatment uses plants and herbs in order to overcome various elements in the body. Depending on the Read More

Give Traditional Chinese Medicine a Chance

Did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used to treat a variety of illnesses and symptoms as far back as 5,000 years ago? TCM has successfully treated many conditions, such as nausea, vomiting, body pain, and skin disorders. TCM focuses on balancing qi, which is the energy flow in our body that Read More

HOW TO REDUCE STRESS THROUGH MINDFULNESS

By definition, mindfulness is the psychological practice aimed towards being more present or “in the moment.” It is attained by raising your awareness. Stress is absolutely horrid for your physical health. Chronic stress increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, as well as diabetes, The National Institution of Mental Health reports. Chronic stress Read More

ACUPUNCTURE CONSULTATION & TREATMENT

Acupuncture is a safe and effective means of sustaining a healthy body in a multitude of different ways. The procedure itself dates back over 2,500 years and has been used to diagnose, prevent, and treat disease, as well as improve your health in general. The traditional idea involves the modification of your body’s natural energies Read More

BENEFITS OF HERBAL MEDICINE

When you are not feeling well, most people assume that you don’t have many options. You either try to take medicine that you can get over-the-counter or you see a doctor. However, Western medicine is not the only choice. More and more people are looking toward homeopathic and herbal medicine. So what are the benefits Read More

JULY OPEN DAY! GET READY FOR YOUR CAREER WITH OUR JULY INTAKE

FEBRUARY 2019 INTAKEGet ready for you new career NOW Courses commence: FEBRUARY 2019  Date: 19 January 2019Time: 11:00am-2:00pmWhere: Suite 502, Level 5, 25 Dixon Street, Sydney NSW 2000 At the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Open Day (SITCM), you will find a world of opportunities to kickstart your new career. Here are some reasons why to choose SITCM: Read More

JULY OPEN DAY! GET READY FOR YOUR CAREER WITH OUR JULY INTAKE

July INTAKEGet ready for you new career NOW Courses commence: 30 July 2018  When: 21st of July 2018 Where: 502/25-29 Dixon St, Haymarket NSW 2000 (map) What time: From 11 am to 2 pm At the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Open Day (SITCM), you will find a world of opportunities to kickstart your Read More

TCM: A BRIEF HISTORY OF AN ANCIENT PHILOSOPHY

You hear of acupuncture and Tai Chi. Maybe you’ve tried an over-the-counter herbal remedy for the common cold or overheard discussions about Chakra alignment and Qi flow. Perhaps it’s time to really delve into these topics, to read about the studies in human well-being that back them up, and to engage with your own body Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE MERGING WITH THE SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL AGE

The debate about establishing a scientific basis for TCM still rages in Australia. A letter published in the Medical Journal of Australia (2012) by two medical academics strongly objects to the granting of academic degrees in alternative medicine, calling it “pseudoscience.” The letter asks academic institutions to “stand up for science.” Defending Australian Medical Education. Read More

THREE TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE TECHNIQUES FOR SKIN

Have you done everything to treat your dermatologic albatross? If you have not explored the effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine then you still have the opportunity for relief. For centuries Traditional Chinese Medicine has offered relief to anyone through these ancient techniques.  The following are some techniques that TCM has developed over centuries. They offer Read More

STAY A WHILE WITH US, HERE AT SITCM

Knowledge is a great thing to have, and being able to expand on it is always exciting. It’s even more enjoyable when you can learn through hands on experiences. Joining us at SITCM allows you to create memorable moments while providing you with the tools to understand and learn Traditional Chinese Medicine. You’ll leave with Read More

DID YOU KNOW THAT SITCM OFFERS CLINIC SERVICES AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES?

The Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine has a commitment to the community that goes beyond its clinical programs and includes the most comprehensive educational programs available. Our graduates are empowered and ready to serve the community working alongside other therapists in a variety of clinical settings. Vocational Education Courses Certificate IV in Massage Therapy Read More

WHEN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE MEETS MODERN TECHNOLOGY

For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine has been used for its wide range of unique health benefits. For that reason, the emergence of modern medical technology offers a unique opportunity to expand upon generations of ancient techniques. Our scientific understanding of the human body has shed new light on exactly what these practices can Read More

CLINIC SERVICES AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Open seven days a week, our clinical services alternate between TCM and massage based lessons. We provide students with educational experiences right at their fingertips.  OUR GOALS SITCM strives to maintain a balance of progressive education mixed with personal and professional development. We aim to maximise the ability each student has to critically analyse research Read More

THE SYDNEY INSTITUTE OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE BLOG

The Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine has been committed to serving the community for the past 35 years. Our educational programs graduate industry-ready practitioners in Traditional Chinese Medicine, ready to enter the Australian Healthcare system. Highly qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners supervise the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine teaching clinic. They have been Read More

REMEDIAL MASSAGE APPOINTMENT WITH SITCM

Remedial massage is a procedure designed to target specific areas of the body for therapeutic effect. Not only is it relaxing, but it has a number of benefits to improve the well-being of your mind and body. Using relevant techniques, special lubricants, and unique movements, we offer a massage catering to your specific needs as Read More

REDUCING STRESS: 3 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE MINDFULNESS

The practice of mindfulness is a simple one, yet it has the potential to make a significant difference in the way you feel. Studies have found it can be an effective way of treating depression and anxiety. As a way of reducing stress, many people around the world have found it a useful tool. There Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE: HYPERTENSION, METABOLISM, AND THE MICROBIOME

Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, has been practised for over 2,000 years. Originating in China, today this medical tradition is practised in countries worldwide. Western medicine has recently begun to integrate certain aspects of TCM such as evaluating each patient with an holistic approach. The world of Western medicine is entering a new era, one Read More

HOW TO BECOME A MORNING PERSON WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM)

Do you find it challenging waking up after hitting the sack? Morning people usually stay proactive during the day, and this makes their work easy and their output more productive. Many successful company CEOs are generally up by 5 am.  Being tired is the root of waking up late and can at times be chronic, Read More

HOW THE 5 FLAVOURS OF TCM & WHOLE FOODS INFLUENCE BETTER HEALTH

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the stomach is associated with worry. Many people spend a good part of their day worrying about what they eat and how it affects their health and life. Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on restoring balance to the body. The five flavours of TCM, along with eating whole foods, can lead Read More

INSIGHTS IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND WESTERN MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the first-hand observation of Chinese physicians over thousands of years. In helping to explain what they see, these traditional practitioners developed theories which are very different from what Western doctors have developed. But the observed facts have a strong symmetry with the Western doctor’s events have also established. Read More

MINDFULNESS WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS AND ENHANCE HEALTH & WELLBEING

THE BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS The chances are good that you’ve at least heard about mindfulness—and perhaps are also aware of its benefits. Some of the most inspiring of these proven  benefits of mindfulness include: reduction of stress enhanced ability to deal with illness facilitation of recovery from illness decreased depressive symptoms improved overall health But Read More

HOW TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE CAN HELP YOU TO QUIT SMOKING

The good news: The smoking rate of Australian adults has nearly halved since 1995 and is now hovering around 12.8 percent, according to a 2016 survey. The bad news: You or someone you love is addicted and needs help. You already know smoking is terrible for your health, not to mention your finances and relationships. Read More

WHAT CAN HERBAL MEDICINE TREAT?

Herbal medicine has been around longer than traditional medicine. In fact, it was used by the Chinese back before traditional medicine was started. When you use herbal medicine, you are using products that are natural and derived from plants. These remedies come in many forms such as essential oils, teas, extracts, and even can be Read More

SPORTS PAIN AND THE BENEFITS OF REMEDIAL MASSAGE

Playing sports can be a fun and productive way of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Keeping your body active is important, and enjoying yourself at the same time if even better. Unfortunately, all forms of sports come with their own risks.  From bodily pain to sore muscles and injuries, sports can be as rough on your Read More

TOP TCM TIPS TO HELP ENRICH YOUR LIFE DURING PREGNANCY

In traditional Chinese medicine, the pregnant woman is regarded as a person who should be taken care of in a unique way. During pregnancy, a lot of hormonal changes take place that not only weaken the woman’s defences but might also put the child she carries at risk. Therefore, traditional Chinese medicine takes care of Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND THE USE OF INTERMITTENT FASTING FOR HEALTH

There are two ways of getting energy for daily function, one is burning the nutrients from food, the carbohydrates and sugars especially. The other is burning stored fats. When we are eating, we derive energy to serve our muscular functions from the nutrients in the food. Extra nutrients are changed into fats which can be Read More

5 IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN STARTING YOUR OWN TCM BUSINESS

Every student of Traditional Chinese Medicine looks forward to graduating and starting their TCM career! It’s a rewarding path, so naturally, you’re eager to get going. Still, before you start your own TCM business, there are several important things you need to consider. Here are five of them: Get a Mentor You’ve learned a lot Read More

HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL TCM PRACTITIONER

Many people in Australia are excited about Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a discipline for healing that is non-intrusive, makes maximum use of the body’s natural mechanisms for healing, and is devoted to the fundamental doctrine of the health professions, “Do no harm.” TCM is an ancient field, but it is also at the forefront of Read More

NATURAL WAYS TO DETOXIFY YOUR BODY WITH FOODS AND HERBS

The human body has many systems that function to detoxify itself. The kidney, the liver, skin cells, and lungs actively remove toxins as they operate. Yet the idea of an external detoxifier remains popular in the culture and in the marketplace. Much of this detoxification marketplace is discounted by medical science. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Read More

6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE FOR THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Many people look at Traditional Chinese Medicine as inherently opposed to Western medicine. That’s because Western doctors typically have not experimented with Eastern medicine. In reality, however, they’re complementary. Traditional Chinese medicine has made significant impacts on the healthcare system, such as: Relevance of Natural Products and Chinese Medicine Many of the prescription drugs typically Read More

SLEEP PROBLEMS? HOW TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IMPROVES YOUR SLEEP QUALITY.

The ancient Chinese believed that sleep is essential to maintaining health. Learned Chinese sages wrote, “…replenishing health with medicine is not as good as replenishing health with diet, but…replenishing health with sleep is the best treatment of all.” The TCM View of the Day. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), night time is Yin and daytime Read More

EAR ACUPUNCTURE AND THE MODERN SCIENCE OF TCM

In recent years, acupuncture has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment for a number of health issues including nausea, vomiting, bodily pain, and many others. It may also be effective in treating a number of other problems. This ancient system of health is based on the body’s natural energy flow known as chi or qi, Read More

EVIDENCE FOR ITS EFFICACY AND SAFETY IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese medicine refers to a collection of health practices that originated in China, some of them over thousands of years ago. Most people have a passing familiarity with some of the practices, including acupuncture, cupping, tai chi, and qi gong. With such a diverse range of practices, and the modern interest in alternative medicines, Read More

HOW HERBS CAN HELP TREAT ALLERGIES

Wouldn’t it be nice to use nature to combat nature? With TCM herbs, you may be able to find relief from your allergies using the gifts of the earth itself — gifts which sometimes feel like a curse as your nose is running and your eyes are itching. A 2018 study in Allergy, Asthma & Read More

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEEP TISSUE AND SOFT TISSUE IN REMEDIAL MASSAGE

In traditional Chinese medicine, massage is a technique used to open up and clear the body’s natural energy pathways. Through a combination of medicinal herbs and targeted pressure points, TCM works to restore a healthy balance throughout the body. These ancient 2000-year-old methods have been shown to provide a range of benefits including reduced stress, Read More

HOW ACUPUNCTURE RELIEVES MIGRAINE PAIN

A migraine is usually defined as a recurrent throbbing headache that often affects only one side of the head and possibly accompanied by nausea and blurry vision. According to HeadacheAustralia.org, 23% of households contain at least one migraine sufferer.  A migraine is an interaction between the brain and the blood vessels that feed the brain Read More

3 NATURAL WAYS TO BE FREE OF CRAMPS USING TCM

The pain of cramps can be debilitating, causing you to miss work, cancel appointments and curl into a ball until the aches subside — until you have to do it all over again next month. Menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhoea, include painful sensations (from dull to severe) felt in the abdomen and pelvis before, during or Read More

5 ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS TO RELIEVE YOUR STRESS

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), “there is no separation between the mind and body – they are interconnected and affect each other in health.” This synergy is why your stomach hurts when you’re anxious, or your neck aches when you’re stressed, or your energy levels are depleted when you’re depressed. For 3,000 years, TCM has Read More

DIFFERENT WAYS TO HELP WITH THE DISHARMONY FROM THE BODY

Previously, we have discussed the fundamental TCM concepts of Qi and the five vital substances, how the vital organs (zang fu) manufacture and refine the substances, and how the jing luo distributes them throughout the body. In this final part, we will discuss what factors cause disharmony in the overall body system, and how they Read More

JING LUO AND ACUPUNCTURE POINTS

In the previous part, we have discussed how TCM views the internal organs (zang fu) as an interconnected system, for converting food, water, and air into the five vital substances.  In this part, we will discuss the jing luo, how they connect the organs to the rest of the body, and how acupuncture points, or Read More

Zang Fu – The Vital Organs

In the previous part, we have discussed the holistic view of how TCM views the body as an overall system, and illnesses are the way body’s qi, or life energy, has gone out of balance in the form of the “five vital substances.” In this part, we will discuss the “Zang Fu,” or the vital Read More

AN ABRIDGED HISTORY OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IN TEXT

Traditional Chinese Medicine has a 5,000 year legacy. There were many different medical philosophies and techniques in China with a mix of travelling physicians, village herbalists, and native shamans. Chinese Medicine has been bound by nature, earth and sea. The season and the climate, and plants and animals. SHEN NONG and THE MEDICA One of Read More

QI AND THE FIVE VITAL SUBSTANCES IN TCM FUNDAMENTALS

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a fundamentally holistic view towards health, honed after 2500+ years of refinement. TCM asserts that a body should be a system in harmony. Any pains, illnesses, diseases, and such are disharmony in the body. TCM practitioner’s job is to assess the disharmony in the body and restore the balance of Read More

4 FACTS ABOUT TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM for short, is a form of medicine characterised by using herbs, pressure point stimulation, and other natural methods (including psychological coaching and diet adjustment) to help in a variety of ailments. It has its roots in thousands of years-old practises, predating even written documents, and continues to be relevant in Read More

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR BODY FOR SPRINGTIME WITH TCM THERAPIES

Spring is so close, and that means bright, sunny days, more time outside, flowers, and gentle rains. In Traditional Chinese Medicine circles, each season requires us to take personal measures to ensure we remain healthy, centred, and balanced. The Five Elements The traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy on spring includes living in harmony with the universe Read More

HOW IS CHINESE MEDICINE DIFFERENT FROM HOMEOPATHY?

People who wish to find some alternatives to traditional “western” medicine often view homeopathy and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) the same as they are both considered “alternative medicine”. However, their principles are as different as night and day.  Traditional Chinese Medicine  TCM is a spectrum of practices, including but not limited to acupuncture, moxibustion (burning herbs Read More

3 TCM PLANT-BASED HERBS TO HELP RELIEVE SKIN

You wouldn’t knowingly eat dangerous, synthetic chemicals, so why slather them all over the largest organ of the human body? Consider opting for the more holistic path of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) herbs to help to heal your skin condition,– backed by both research and thousands of years of history. TCM “addresses establishing and maintaining Read More

3 TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER HEART WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese Medicine has proven to be effective in treating a wide range of modern health concerns. Heart health is especially important, given how common heart-related illnesses have become. In TCM, the heart is often referred to as the “ruler” of our organs. It is said that the heart houses the Shen, which has an Read More

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AFTER AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION (PART II)

There are so many benefits from doing acupuncture. It can help with pain relief, as well as treating anxiety and depression. However, in order for you to get the full range of benefits, you need to take care of yourself afterward. So, what else can you do after your acupuncture treatment to ensure that it Read More

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AFTER AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION

Acupuncture has so many benefits, from pain relief to the help with anxiety and depression. However, if you don’t care for yourself properly afterward, you might be losing some of the benefits. So, what can you do after your acupuncture treatment to ensure that it is working as effectively as possible? You must relax after Read More

HOW CAN A CONSULTATION FOR TUI NA HELP YOU

Tui Na is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which, like acupuncture and herbal treatment, focuses on encouraging the flow of Qi, or the body’s vital energy, to promote health and healing. Understanding how Tui Na is utilised and who may best benefit from this form of treatment can help you determine if Tui Na Read More

VISITING A TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE PRACTITIONER

Whether you are about to experience your initial visit to a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, or you have seen a TCM in the past, these guidelines are a solid course to follow before you walk into the TCM waiting room. For many patients, writing down symptoms and questions they might want to ask the Read More

THE WARM DISEASE THEORY AND ITS LEVELS

The goal of the specialists at the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SITCM), is to look for the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms and treat the individual, not just the disease. The Traditional Chinese Medicine warm (or heat) theory disease is one of the maladies treated at SITCM. This topic is for those who wish Read More

WHAT ACUPUNCTURE IS GOOD FOR?

When most people think about acupuncture, they think about the needles. It often makes them uncomfortable because many people are scared of them. However, it can be quite relaxing, as well as good for your health! Here are some benefits of acupuncture Acupuncture can be great for relieving headaches (including migraines). Many people suffer from Read More

WHAT CAN TCM DO FOR A SPRAINED ANKLE?

Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries to occur in everyday life. Whether you’re jogging down the street or just walking in your home, they can happen almost anywhere at any time. When you’ve sprained an ankle, it’s important to begin the healing process as quickly as possible in order to bring your Read More

EATING BEFORE ACUPUNCTURE: IS IT OKAY?

Those of you who are new to acupuncture will at one time or another wonder if it’s okay to eat before a session. This is a perfectly normal and rational question since we want to be as best prepared for any health procedure as possible. In order to answer if eating before acupuncture is okay Read More

THE BENEFITS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE FOR SKINCARE

As the body’s largest organ, skin is uniquely vulnerable to all kinds of ailments, with two of the most common being eczema and acne. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has offered therapies for these illnesses for centuries. The aim of TCM is to address the root of these skin conditions, which can include factors such as Read More

3 ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES THAT CAN WORK WHEN COMBINED

Alternative therapies are often used in combination with western medicine and a doctor’s orientation.But choosing what therapy is adequate for your need is important. Here are 3 Alternative therapies that can work when combined. CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE Chinese herbal medicine uses more than 450 plant, animal, and mineral substances to promote well-being and a strong Read More

4 WAYS THAT CHINESE MEDICINE CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE

There is a reason that traditional Chinese Medicinal practices have persisted for over 5000 years. Even under the demands and stresses that modern life places on us, there are a great many people who’ve discovered the real benefits these practices have to offer. Using a combination of Taoist ideology and generations upon generations of proven Read More

ACUPUNCTURE IN AUSTRALIA

Acupuncture is taking its place among treatments for a range of conditions throughout the world. In Australia, ten percent of the population has had acupuncture treatment by physicians or acupuncturists in private clinics. Over 10 million visits are made to acupuncturists every year. Third-party payment is available in six of the eight Australian states and Read More

ACUPUNCTURE TO REDUCE PAIN

Acupuncture is a complementary health technique in which trained practitioners insert needles in specific points of the body to stimulate the flow of energy or chi. Acupuncture treatment is relatively pain-free which can be used to help in the treatment of margarine, depression, insomnia and chronic pains. The therapy corrects imbalances of energy in the body. The Read More

HOW CAN CUPPING THERAPY HELP YOU?

Cupping therapy is an age-old tradition that dates back to ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), cupping is a practice that creates a vacuum or suction on the patient’s skin and is believed to relieve the body of harmful substances, boost energy levels, improve blood flow, and promote healing. Read More

THE BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR WOMEN

Acupuncture does not get talked about nearly enough of the useful health benefits it provides users. This might be due to the fact that a lot of medical professionals are not aware of the scientific research and data that supports the effectiveness of acupuncture. In any case, acupuncture can provide people with relief. In this Read More

THE BENEFITS OF TUI NA MASSAGE

While many people consider massages to be relaxing luxuries, in the world of traditional Chinese medicine, massage is used for its therapeutic properties just as often. One such type of massage is Tui Na, which, like acupuncture, aims to stimulate various channels within the body. By stimulating these areas using pressure, Tui Na attempts to Read More

WHAT IS CUPPING THERAPY?

Better health means a better life Those interested in alternative techniques to improve health those involving Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for example may benefit from Cupping Therapy. What is Cupping Therapy? Cupping therapy involves placing cups on a patient’s skin to create a vacuum. This vacuum causes blood to come to the surface and to Read More

LOOKING AT AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE WITH WESTERN AND EASTERN MEDICINE

Living with an autoimmune disease can be very difficult. According to ASCIA (Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy), 1.15 million Australians suffer from autoimmune disorders and diseases, with women making up over 60% of the afflicted. In fact, autoimmune disease is among the top 10 leading causes of death amongst females in all age Read More

BENEFITS OF REMEDIAL MASSAGE

If you are experiencing chronic pain or significant muscle aches and tension, getting a massage can be a great way to help with the pain. When looking for a massage, receiving a remedial massage can be the best massage option. There are many benefits of  remedial massage that can help to manage your pain and Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IN MANY WAYS OF PRACTICE

The origins of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) exists before the advent of written language. Chinese written language was dated to 1766 BC, and medical practices are alluded to in the first written documents, over 2,000 years ago. Chinese medicine consists of three most commonly used practice areas: Acupuncture and Channel Points Tai Chi Mind and Mind-Body Practices Herbal Read More

HERBAL MEDICINE THERAPY

There are many practices around the world to treat various diseases and common ailments, many of which vary from continent to continent. Herbal medicine treatment, although not widely practised in most Western cultures is used in traditional Chinese medicine or TCM as a means to alleviating ailments and medical suffering of the body. Herbal medicine therapy refers to Read More

UNDERSTANDING ACUPUNCTURE

The practice of acupuncture dates back thousand of years to China (a few hundred years before the common era) and is based on the theory that life energy – – known as Qi or Chi – – flows through the body along channels or pathways known as meridians. When Qi is blocked, health problems ensue. An important Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND UNESCO INSCRIPTION

Thousands of years ago, a document termed as the Huang Di Nei Jing — Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor or Esoteric Scripture of the Yellow Emperor — was created by Chinese herbalists and doctors as an all-encompassing resource for healing. Listing various Chinese remedies to treat or several ailments, the document also provides ancient medical advice that is Read More

HERBAL MEDICINE PRACTICE & TCM- DO THEY WORK FOR ME?

Herbs have been used in the healing process for centuries. Herbal medicine treatment today is the use of herbal plants, with traditional health benefits, proven by clinical trials and solid research to be a benefit. Herbal medicine approaches the patient with a holistic viewpoint. The goal is to treat the entire person and the cause of Read More

ACUPUNCTURE AS PAIN MANAGEMENT FOR SEVERE HEADACHES

What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting needles into key nerve points in the body. Proponents of the art say it can help with everything from weight loss to anxiety to infertility although strong scientific research has yet to be done to determine how effective it really Read More

PHYSICIAN BURNOUT AND HOW AUGMENTING YOUR CAREER WITH TCM CAN HELP

Do you remember when you reached your career goal and achieved the dream of being in a position to help and heal others? When you graduated from medical school and you and your loved ones pridefully and ceremoniously framed your medical certificate in a celebration of this monumental achievement. Pragmatic and professional, you likely set Read More

THE HUANG-DI NEI-JING DOCUMENT AND THE FOUNDATIONS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Huang-Di Nei-Jing Document The Huang-Di Nei-Jing Document has achieved UNESCO status as a protected document. This new status is understandable since the Huang-Di Nei-Jing Document is one of the most important documents for the practice of Chinese medicine. It was first written over 2,000 years ago during the Warring States period, a pivotal time in Read More

CURE ACNE AND ECZEMA WITH CHINESE MEDICINE

The majority of us have experienced acne, either as a hormonal teenager or as an adult. Some people have the joy of dealing with a more extreme form of acne called cystic acne, which leaves embarrassing scars behind. Others have another form of skin ailment called eczema. Eczema leaves skin dry, commonly with cracks and Read More

3 Innovative Approaches to Weight Loss Through Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine has been around for over thousands of years and has proven effective for many different treatments. However, for those who have tried everything to lose weight and still have unsuccessful results, it may be time to look to the past to get results for the future. ACUPUNCTURE While acupuncture has been used Read More

WHY SHOULD YOU STUDY TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE?

Traditional Chinese medicine has been around for hundreds of years and, it is starting to become very popular all over the world. Many people who suffer from pain have been seeking alternatives to pain pills and, traditional Chinese medicine is one of those ways. It has also become a very popular way to start a Read More

BENEFITS OF REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPY

When you’re struggling with physical pain, one of the best ways to relieve the pain is to receive a remedial massage. Remedial massage therapy is the process of treating muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other parts of the body to help rehabilitate injuries and manage pain. There are several benefits that come with getting a remedial Read More

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE: A BRIEF HISTORY

As increasing numbers of consumers seek alternatives to Western medicine, many are turning to the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM incorporates multiple ages-old healing modalities including acupuncture, dietary therapy, Qigong, Tai Chi, herbal medicine, massage therapy, and more, to treat and prevent health concerns. TCM is rooted in ancient Taoist philosophy and Read More

HOW TCM CAN HELP YOU MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT AMONG RISING OBESITY RATES

For the past couple of years obesity has been on the rise in Australia. In 2011-2012, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that 62.8% of Australians were overweight or obesity. In 2014-2015, the percentage increased to 63.4%. With obesity on the rise, Australians are trying to create solutions to make a healthier lifestyle more simple Read More

ACUPUNCTURE FOR PAIN: DON’T LET THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC NEEDLE YOU

Australia is on the brink of an opioid overdose epidemic that threatens to rival that of the one now raging in the United States, where nearly 100 people a day die from opioid overdose. Not even car accidents kill that many.  In Australia, deaths from opioid overdoses have more than doubled since 2007. A quarter of Read More

COMPLEMENTING HIGH-TECH MEDICINE: THE BENEFITS OF TCM

As health care and medicine get more and more high tech, and seemingly removed from the actual body of the patient, there has been a quiet return to more holistic and natural ways to diagnose and care for patients the type of medicine invented by the Chinese thousands of years ago, and still practised today. Read More

Why Choose a Career in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is rapidly growing in popularity and has already proven to be highly sought-after alternatives to traditional, pharmaceutical medicine that is commonly practised in many Western cultures. While students who major in TCM may have more narrow field of choices for employment than other traditional health science graduates, there are still plenty Read More

REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPY IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient combination of therapies that address internal imbalances that lead to illness and disease. These imbalances are often caused by an external stimulus like injury or stress. Remedial massage is one traditional Chinese method that addresses injury-related imbalances.  What is remedial massage therapy? Remedial massage therapy is a technique that Read More

THE PATTER OF LITTLE FEET: HOW ACUPUNCTURE CAN HELP ADD TO YOUR FAMILY

The inability to conceive a child can be a source of much sorrow for a couple. Sometimes there is no apparent reason for the problem, and that just makes it harder. But there is hope. Acupuncture has an amazing ability to help couples conceive and is fast becoming a recognised and effective method for treating Read More

The Evolution of High Tech Acupuncture

Scientists and practitioners have built a strong case for the use of traditional Chinese acupuncture. Over the last three decades, research has continued to confirm the extensive benefits of this therapy. Expanding on acupuncture‘s proven effectiveness as an analgesic, exciting new developments combine acupuncture with other technologies to advance medical treatment plans. A new joint Read More

NUANCED BENEFITS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE

With a background exceeding 3000 years, acupuncture remains among the more familiar therapies of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Promoting self-healing, a trained acupuncturist stimulates precise body parts targeted by inserting sterile needles. While the much publicised opioid addiction epidemic inspires intense research, crystallising acupuncture’s benefits, its application to other ills defies overestimation. Formal clinical studies prove acupuncture’s Read More

A REVIEW OF ACUPUNCTURE IN CANCER TREATMENT PROGRAMS

Cancer is a treacherous disease that devastates individuals and families. While medical advancements have increased the survival rate for many forms of cancer, the individuals affected must still deal with the pain and side effects of aggressive treatment plans and recovery. Fortunately, proponents of Traditional Chinese Medicine have long known that acupuncture is an effective analgesic, Read More

UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS & BENEFITS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Proponents of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have trusted its practice for over 2000 years. TCM has a rich history and continues to grow in popularity. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health offers great insight on the beliefs that gave rise to TCM, the therapies and techniques in practice today, and the science that currently supports Read More

THE EVOLUTION OF HIGH TECH ACUPUNCTURE

Scientists and practitioners have built a strong case for the use of traditional Chinese acupuncture. Over the last three decades, research has continued to confirm the extensive benefits of this therapy. Expanding on acupuncture‘s proven effectiveness as an analgesic, exciting new developments combine acupuncture with other technologies to advance medical treatment plans. A new joint study shows Read More

ACUPUNCTURE’S GROWING ACCEPTANCE AS A WISER COURSE OF PAIN MANAGEMENT

The ongoing news deluge alerts all to the opioid crisis. Opioids, including oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet) and hydrocodone (Vicodin), stand as the most prescribed class of medications in the U.S., with more than 289 million opioid prescriptions during 2016 alone. To better comprehend the scale, note: the U.S. Census Bureau estimates 323 million populated America in mid-2016. Thus, the Read More