PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions about Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine

• Herbs or acupuncture?
• Can acupuncture help me to give up smoking?
• What about cross infection?
• Is acupuncture painful?
• Is acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine safe if I am on medication?
• How many treatments will I need?

Questions about Herbal Medicine

• How is herbal medicine taken?

Questions about Acupuncture and
Chinese Herbal Medicine

Herbs or acupuncture?
For some conditions (e.g. skin problems, severe depletion, ME) herbal treatment is more appropriate than acupuncture, although their combined use usually makes treatment faster and more effective. Acupuncture is especially recommended in the case of arthritis, back pain and sporting injuries, although here herbs can also be very helpful and even crucial in very chronic conditions.

Can acupuncture help me to give up smoking?
Acupuncture can be very effective in helping to relieve the withdrawal symptoms experienced by those giving up tobacco. As a result of treatment, the craving and other symptoms such as irritability and agitation become less pronounced. However, these symptoms will still often be noticed, so a person's determination to succeed is still called for. This is why Kim offers counselling and support during this process and advises people to prepare for giving up. As part of this preparation, he recommends reading "The Easy Way to Give Up Smoking" by Alan Carr. Most people find this book enormously helpful both before and during the giving up process.

What about cross infection?
I use only disposable needles that come packaged in sterile containers. Each needle is immediately discarded after use. Hence there is absolutely no risk of cross-infection.

Is acupuncture painful?
The fear of needles that some people have is often based on experiences with the needles used to give injections or withdraw blood. Acupuncture needles are much, much finer than these. A slight prick may be felt when the needle goes through the skin. When the needle reaches the acupuncture point there should be a sensation of tugging or a dull ache. (Unless this is felt, the needle has not made contact with the energy point). This sensation usually lasts a short time and is generally acceptable.

Is acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine safe if I am on medication? Acupuncture and herbal treatment can be given alongside medication prescribed by your doctor. Where it is possible and desirable, acupuncture can help you to reduce or eliminate your drug intake, although this should be done with the knowledge and co-operation of your doctor.

How many treatments will I need?
Treatments are usually given once a week initially and at longer intervals as improvement occurs. Recently acquired conditions usually require fewer treatments than those that have persisted for a long time.

Questions about Herbal Medicine

How is herbal medicine taken?
Herbal medicine is prescribed for internal or external use, depending on the requirements of the patient. It is simple to use and may be prescribed in the following forms: tinctures, fluid extracts and plant juices; teas; tablets and powders; oils and creams. Ellie Holly uses organic herbs wherever possible.

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