Is acupuncture safe?

While no medical treatment is entirely risk-free, acupuncture is considered extremely safe when carried out by a properly qualified practitioner. Serious side effects are very uncommon, and any potential risks will always be explained before treatment begins.

What does acupuncture feel like? Does it hurt?

Acupuncture is typically described as deeply relaxing, and many patients feel a sense of calm after treatment. The needles used are extremely thin, similar in width to a strand of hair. In many cases, there’s no sensation when they’re inserted. Sometimes, you might notice a mild heaviness or tingling around the point as the needle is adjusted, which signals an effective response. When treating muscular tension, the feeling may be more pronounced, but most patients, especially first timers, are often pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it is.

Do I need to undress?

Usually not. For most treatments, it’s sufficient to expose the lower arms and legs. If your treatment involves cupping, massage, or acupuncture points on the back or hips, your practitioner will let you know in advance. Any exposure is handled with care and professionalism, using towels or coverings to maintain your comfort and privacy.

How many treatments will I need?

Treatment plans are tailored to each individual. For recent or acute conditions, 5 to 8 sessions may be enough, and many people start to notice improvement after two or three visits. Chronic or longstanding issues can require more sustained care over several months. Initially, appointments are often weekly. Once symptoms stabilise, sessions may be spaced out to fortnightly or monthly for maintenance.

Are Chinese Herbs Safe?

Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to support health and treat illness. When prescribed by a trained herbalist, they are remarkably safe. Practitioners registered with the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM) use only high-quality, regulated products. These are manufactured to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards and rigorously tested to ensure correct species, potency, and freedom from contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.

What sort of herbs do you use?

We use concentrated herbal granules or powders—high-strength extracts prepared in state-of-the-art facilities in China and Taiwan. These are trusted worldwide, including in countries with strict quality controls such as Australia and the USA. Granules are easy to take: just dissolve them in hot water, much like instant coffee. They’re stronger and more effective than tablets, and much simpler to use than traditional raw herbs.

Why might I need herbs?

Herbal medicine is a vital branch of Chinese medicine, particularly useful for internal health conditions. Combining herbs with acupuncture can improve treatment outcomes by addressing both the root and manifestation of symptoms more thoroughly than either method alone.

Do you use animal products?

No. Animal products are not permitted in Chinese herbal medicine practice in the UK. Where traditional formulas called for animal-derived ingredients, plant-based or mineral substitutes are used instead. These alternatives are both effective and ethical.

Do they taste bad?

Some formulas can be bitter or earthy in flavour, depending on the herbs used. Most people adapt quickly. Because the granules are taken in small volumes of water, the taste is often much milder and easier to manage than traditional decoctions made from raw herbs.

How long is a course of herbal medicine?

It depends on your condition. For acute issues like colds or digestive upset, herbs may only be needed for a short time. Chronic or complex conditions may benefit from several months of herbal therapy. Often, the dose is higher at the beginning and then reduced as your health improves.

What’s the difference between Western and Chinese herbal medicine?

Western herbal medicine often uses single herbs or simple combinations, usually in tincture or tea form, and tends to align with biomedical diagnosis. Chinese herbal medicine, by contrast, draws on thousands of years of tradition and organ system theory. It typically uses customised formulas of 8–16 herbs, chosen according to the patient's unique pattern and prescribed in higher dosages for a therapeutic effect.

Can I take herbal medicine with my prescribed medications?

Yes, in many cases. Your practitioner will review any medications you're on before prescribing herbs. While interactions are uncommon, we take precautions, such as advising you to leave a gap (usually around two hours) between taking your herbs and any pharmaceutical drugs.