Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine 
Chinese medicine is profoundly unique in its approach to health. Through centuries of accumulated observation and knowledge, the Chinese understand the nature of energy as the basis of the human body.
The Chinese classify disease into different categories. The problem can be superficial in the muscles (pain)or it can be deep in the organ. In fact, the nature of the organ function is one of the main diagnostic categories and it is through the organ function that groups of symptoms are understood.
Your First Consultation
In many ways the first visit is similar to visiting a Western Doctor. Many questions are asked about the symptoms, and how they vary and the general history.
For objective information, Alan then relies on observation of the tongue, pulse and face - subjects he has lectured on for one whole day each.
The first consultation will also include acupuncture treatment or Chinese herbs or both. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine steel needles into specific sites on the body for a wide variety of ailments which include pain relief and any organ dysfunction. Usually between 4-8 needles are used and these are retained for 2-30 minutes.
Herbs can be offered in pill form or in freeze dried powder. Pills are manufactured in China according to traditional formula. (Alan has the largest supply of herbal pills – more than any other practitioner in the country – because he also supplies colleagues). The freeze-dried herbs are individually prescribed for each patient. They are prepared like instant coffee. (This is much preferable to the traditional boiling of the raw herbs which is both time consuming and bitter to taste. Alan is the exclusive importer of these freeze-dried powders, receiving them directly from the Shanghai factory).
The Power of the Treatment
Some patients feel instantly different following treatment. With acupuncture, one can feel relaxed or energised within 30 minutes. Although herbs are more for a long term tonic, even a common cold can be altered within a few minutes.
The energetic nature of the diagnosis and treatment allows both physical and emotional problems to be treated. The unique nature of the treatment allows benefit to patients who have been resistant to orthodox treatments. Even for chronic conditions the benefit can be cumulative.