With a long history dating back thousands of years, the benefits and effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been well documented in the medical world. TCM has been gaining global interest in recent years. Despite this, there are still some misconceptions and fears which may deter people from considering TCM as a complementary treatment to western medicine.
In this article, we debunk five of the most common myths about TCM to help you make more informed decisions about your health.
1. TCM is just acupuncture
Contrary to popular belief, TCM physicians do not just administer acupuncture. There are also other treatments that include herbal products, massages (tui na), cupping, exercise (tai chi), and so on. A combination of these treatment methods may be prescribed depending on individual conditions.
2. Acupuncture is painful
Most of the acupuncture points are located on or close to the skin’s surface. As such, the treatment needles do not puncture as deep into your flesh as you may fearfully imagine. The needles used are tiny and slender like a cat’s whisker. Instead of feeling pain, most patients will feel a mild sensation that may range from heaviness, to slight tingling, to a dull ache. The treatment should not be uncomfortable for you.
3. Acupuncture only treats pain
Most people assume that acupuncture only helps the obvious kinds of muscle and joint pains, or headaches. However, the treatment can also be used for issues like nausea and vomiting, allergies, mental wellness, and even for weight loss, skin rejuvenation, and hair loss.
4. TCM’s effects are psychological
The benefits that surround TCM are not psychological or placebo effects. There are studies that show its positive effects in helping our brain to release endorphins, which are our bodies natural painkillers. TCM may also help to boost our immune system. Specifically, acupuncture has been scientifically proven and recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to be an effective treatment for a number of disorders.
5. TCM treatment is unregulated
TCM is actually highly regulated in Singapore. All TCMs practicing in Singapore are governed by the TCM Practitioners Act. Additionally, the Health Sciences Authority Singapore (HSA) regulates all products under Chinese medicine, such as tablets, capsules and liquids, and well as importers, wholesale dealers and manufacturers.
TCM is a scientifically proven alternative medicine that you can consider as part of a holistic framework for long-term health and wellness. Don’t know where to start? Check out the Doctor Anywhere Marketplace for TCM treatments by Pulse TCM Clinic, or traditional remedies by brands like Three Star, Three legs, Zhen Zhen, and Cool Rhino. Click here to visit the Marketplace!
