TCM Methods
Traditional Chinese medicine knows various treatment methods. Probably the most well-known is acupuncture, in which thin needles are inserted into different points along the energy pathways, the so-called meridians.
Depending on the needle technique, the Qi, as the energy is called in traditional Chinese medicine, is strengthened, moved or even balanced. Ear acupuncture is also commonly used.
Another relatively well-known treatment method is cupping. Cupping glasses are placed directly on the skin and remain attached thanks to a negative pressure.
The negative pressure is generated by heating the air in the cupping cup and placing it immediately on the patient’s skin. To do this, a cotton ball is soaked in alcohol, ignited and briefly held in the cupping glass, which creates this negative pressure.
Alternatively, this can also be generated using a pump in the cupping glass.
Cupping is a draining method used to release energy congestion, loosen muscles and alleviate allergies, colds or inflammation.
Moxibustion, or moxa, is another method commonly used in TCM. This is a heat therapy that often uses mugwort rolled in the shape of a cigar. This cigar is lit and held at various acupuncture points until the point is warmed. Moxa boxes or moxa glue can also be used and placed or glued to different parts of the body, such as the abdomen. Moxibustion is a strengthening and moving treatment.
Gua Sha is also a massage that involves scraping along the meridians. This relieves tension and opens the surface to drain pathogenic factors.
Chinese medicines are prescribed as individually tailored formulations from Chinese medicinal plants, mineral substances and, rarely, animal components, and act as a natural method of regulating and healing the body. The formulations are usually taken as tinctures, powders, decoctions (cooking) or tablets.
Safety standards are very high in Switzerland, the substances are always strictly controlled and no animal species are endangered.