What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a time-tested healing method based on the idea that life force energy, or qi, flows through energy channels in the body known as meridians. It is believed that illness arises from an imbalance or blocked flow of qi along these meridians. TCM refers to a variety of approaches to cultivating and nurturing qi, including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, moxibustion, Chinese massage, and movement therapies such as qi gong and tai chi.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cairns

What are the Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

TCM can help with a variety of health problems because it focuses on the underlying cause rather than the symptoms. TCM practitioners treats the patient's mind, body, emotions and environment as a whole, resulting not only in the relief of symptoms but also in the prevention of disease recurrence. TCM is well known for treating the following conditions:

  • Chronic stress
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive issues
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Diabetes
  • Eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions
  • Thyroid problems
  • Kidney disease
  • Thyroid problems
  • Depression
  • Asthma
  • Gout
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Infertility
  • Liver disease
  • Arthritis
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Cysts
  • Insomnia

What is the Cost of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cairns?

TCM services in Cairns are priced differently depending on a variety of factors. The cost is typically in the $80 to $130 range, but it may be higher or lower depending on the type and duration of treatment. The cost of a herbal treatment is determined by the herbs used and the number of packs prescribed. Online TCM consultations are common in the city, particularly among those who are unable to travel due to their condition.

How Many TCM Practitioners are Based in Cairns?

As of 2017, there were over 8,000 TCM practitioners registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA). More than 10% of them work in Cairns and other parts of Queensland. TCM practitioners work in a variety of healthcare settings such as holistic clinics, acupuncture clinics and massage establishments, to name a few.

How Many Cairns Residents Use Traditional Chinese Medicine?

More than half of the people in Cairns use TCM for a variety of reasons. Some use it as a standalone treatment, while others combine it with other treatments. The majority of them are middle-aged women who turned to complementary medicine after conventional treatments produced little to no improvement in their health.