Your Questions Answered

Acupuncture

  • The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin and are inserted gently. Although people's experiences with acupuncture can vary, generally, the insertion of needles causes minimal sensation.

    Once the the needles are inserted, there might be a fleeting dull ache, tingling or a warm sensation.

    Many of my clients report a sense of relaxation and well-being that lingers for several hours following the session.

  • Acupuncture needles are sterile and intended for single use which ensures an extremely low risk of infection, if any.

  • When it comes to acupuncture and hormonal health, most of my clients start with weekly appointments for the first 6-8 weeks, though this can vary depending on the each person’s circumstances.

    Your treatment plan will be discussed during your initial consultation or first treatment. Your progress will be continually assessed in each session.

  • Normally between 20-30 minutes

  • Comfortable loose clothing that offer easy access to elbows, knees, abdomen and back.

  • I recommend having a light meal or a snack before acupuncture especially if you have a tendency to feel light headed.

  • While you can resume normal activities after acupuncture, I encourage you to avoid anything that is too strenuous (physically & mentally), alcohol and/ or heavy meals to get the most out of your treatment.

  • The most commonly used acupuncture points are below the knees & elbow, on the abdomen and back as well as on the head and face.

    If you have any concerns about a specific areas, please let me know I will do my best to address them.

    I have a gentle style and don’t use a large number of needles.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

  • Chinese herbs are available in various formats, including raw herbs, concentrated powder, pills, or tablets.

    Many of my clients find the concentrated powder form particularly convenient. These herbs are provided in granules that you can simply mix with water, similar to preparing an instant drink.

    Clear and easy instructions will provided with your herbs.

  • The cost varies depending on the format of the herbal products.

    Most of my clients take the herbs in highly concentrated granular form which cost £ 90 for one month supply.

  • As each herbal tea is customized to the individual and their specific condition, the ingredients, and consequently, the taste of each formulation will differ.

    I won’t lie to you: to most Western palates Chinese herbs at the beginning taste pretty awful mostly because we are not used to having any bitter taste in our diets. Bitter taste is important especially when it comes to detoxification in the body!

    The vast majority of my clients get used to them pretty quickly, some even like them 😊

  • Typically, one sachet is taken in the morning and another in the evening before meals.

    Detailed instructions are provided on the packaging, and you'll also receive them via email.

  • The frequency of treatment varies significantly based on each individual case.

    However, when it comes to women’s hormonal health a minimum of 3 months is recommended.

  • Indeed, they are safe. While all medications carry potential risks, adverse responses to Chinese herbs are exceedingly uncommon.

    When compared to Western medication, Chinese herbal medicine has limited (if any) side effects.

  • Side effects are rare when herbal formulas are properly prescribed. Mild reactions such as temporary digestive changes like bloating, indigestion, or slight changes in bowel habits can happen.

    Adjusting the herbal formulation or introducing herbs to enhance digestive function can readily address those issues.

  • When properly prescribed, Chinese herbs are not only safe but can be of great support during pregnancy.

    Generally speaking for women with previous challenges in conceiving or a history of miscarriages, it is not unusual to continue the herbs during the first trimester.

    If you get a positive pregnancy test, I will advise you if you need to continue your herbs or not based on your individual circumstances.

  • In most cases yes. We will discuss any medication during your first initial consultation.

  • Yes normally there is no issue at all especially with vitamins.

    You can discuss anything you are already taking during your initial consultation.

  • No. I only prescribe after a thorough consultation.

    Each prescription is customised to address your current condition and cannot be bought over the counter.

  • As a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM), RCHM (Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine) I strictly adhere to their established code of practice. That means that I don’t support any use of endangered animal species and only use herbs and minerals in herbal formulas.

General

  • I am a member of the The Association of Acupuncture Clinicians which is recognised by various private health insurers.

    I am happy to provide invoices &/ or any paperwork for you to get reimbursed but I do not deal with insurances directly.

    Before proceeding with a treatment plan, please verify with your private health insurer whether your policy covers the proposed treatment.

  • If you wish to cancel/ reschedule I need 72 hours notice to realistically be able to offer & fill your slot time with another client. Thank you for your understanding.

  • Definitively. The initial consultation can serve as a stand alone session.

    Following the consultation, you will receive an email containing recommendations, including suggestions for lifestyle and dietary adjustments, additional tests if needed, and a suggested treatment plan.

  • I have limited availability for sliding scale payment clients both online and in person (only available at my Chagford clinic). To join the waitlist please use contact form here.

    In the meantime, you can check out the The Association of Community and Multibed Acupuncture Clinics to check for any local clinics which offer low cost acupuncture treatment.