Understand the Origins, Methods, and Benefits of TCM

Introduction

Originating from Han Chinese culture, an ancient medicinal practice known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a history spanning over 23 centuries. It was brought to Singapore by early migrants from mainland China and has since become an established form of complementary healthcare across the city.

Its holistic approach and ability to address various health concerns have earned recognition among many individuals. While its methods might differ from those of Western medicine, the two do share some common ground.

If this form of care is new to you, visiting a registered practitioner can help you to familiarize yourself with TCM. This guide aims to provide a clear overview of its key principles, what to expect during a consultation, typical costs, and insights into treatment effectiveness for different conditions.

TCM Explained

In China, the term “Chinese medicine (中医)” (meaning “Chinese” medicine) is more commonly used than
“Han medicine (漢醫學)”. However, the latter is a more neutral term still widely used in Japan and South Korea.

The basic principles of TCM believe in preventing or healing diseases by restoring the yin and yang balance and the five
Elements (五行，金木水火土), the human body is regarded as the unity of Qi (气), Form (形), and Spirit (神). When
your body is off-balance, it means your yin or yang is weak, causing you to feel lethargic and ill.

Four classical medical texts formed the foundation of TCM principles that help guide physicians and acupuncturists today and they are:

1. Huang di Nei Jing (皇帝内经, Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor)
2. Shang Han Lun (伤寒论, Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases)
3. Jin Gui Yao lue (金匮要略, Essential Prescriptions from the Golden Cabinet)
4. Wen bing Xue (温病学)

Widely Healing Methods Used in TCM

Combining centuries-old wisdom with modern clinical insights, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on restoring balance and promoting the body’s natural ability to heal. The treatments address issues like:

• Tui Na Massage, a specialised ttherapeutic massage that focuses on the application of rhythmic pressure and manipulations to stimulate energy flow and relieve muscle tension.
• Acupuncture, where fine needles are gently inserted at specific points on the body to regulate energy pathways and encourage healing.
• Gua Sha, which helps improve circulation by releasing stagnation in the tissues.
• Cupping Therapy, using suction cups on the skin to increase blood flow and alleviate muscle stiffness.
• Chinese Herbal Medicine, a natural approach using carefully selected herbs to restore balance and support specific health conditions.
• Slimming Massage, which combines massage techniques to encourage metabolism and assist in weight management.

A Walkthrough of a Typical TCM Consultation

The TCM practitioner will typically ask a series of questions to develop a well-rounded understanding of your health and determine a suitable course of treatment. Similar to consultations in other healthcare settings, your blood pressure may also be measured.

As a registered TCM in Singapore, in my practice, I focus on the following:

• Identifying the root cause of the condition and the affected part of the body
• Analysing how the condition influences internal organs, meridians (经脉), joints, qi (气), blood (血), and body fluids (津液)
• Assessing the presence and movement of external pathogens (邪气)

This evaluation leads to a diagnosis and a summary of the syndrome type, guided by the principle of syndrome differentiation. This approach uses four key diagnostic methods:

1. Looking – observing the tongue and visible symptoms

2. Smelling – identifying any unusual odours or discharges

3. Asking – gathering information through targeted questions

4. Pulse taking – assessing the rhythm and quality of the pulse

If you’re seeking care through TCM in Singapore, this structured method provides a framework for personalised treatment tailored to your unique condition.

What is Health from a TCM perspective?

Traditional Chinese medicine has a complete theoretical system. It comprises a holistic view of “nature and man are
one” (天人合一) and strongly believe that “the way the human body functions is interlinked and closely related
to the natural world” (天人相应).

The three main features of TCM that we’ll look at are:

1. Balance between Yin and Yang
2. Environment and the natural world
3. Viewing things as a connected whole

Yin and Yang

Human beings are considered to be an integral part of the natural world, composed of the most basic matter (named “qi”) and
its movement. This movement consists of two basic movements with different trends—Yin and Yang.

The basic idea of this principle is that yin and yang are mutually opposed and yet mutually interdependent, and they
are always in motion and change. Under normal physiological conditions, the two are in a dynamic balance.

Once this dynamic balance in our bodies is disrupted, it will appear as a pathological state through illness. When
the physician is treating diseases and correcting the imbalance between yin and yang, he/she does not view the problem
from an isolated manner but rather he/she will examine the issue from a broader perspective.

The environmental context

As mentioned earlier, it is believed that man and nature are a unified whole, that is, “Nature and man are one” (天人合一)
and “the way the human body functions is interlinked and closely related to the natural world” (天人相应).

The activities that people engage in and the occurrence of diseases are closely related to various changes in the
natural world. These include:

• seasonal climate differences
• regional areas
• time shifts between day and night or morning and evening, and so on.

The different environments that people live in, coupled with the differences in the individual’s ability to adapt
to the natural environment, have an effect on the constitution of the person.

Therefore, when TCM physicians are diagnosing and treating the same disease, they will pay more attention to
the season, place, and individual conditions, instead of viewing everyone as being the same.

Viewing things as a connected whole

TCM practitioners believe that the various tissues and organs of the human body are interconnected, influencing each other in both function and pathology. As such, they do not examine physiological or pathological signs in isolation. Instead, they approach treatment and prevention with a holistic outlook, considering how different aspects of the body affect one another.

Complementing Western Medicine with Alternative Healing Approaches

Western medicine often focuses on isolating and treating the underlying cause of illness, such as identifying specific viruses or bacteria. In comparison, alternative healing approaches from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tends to assess the body more holistically, based on how symptoms present and interact. In Singapore, pain relief for muscle-related conditions is frequently addressed through medication like muscle relaxants or painkillers. These may help in some cases, but not all patients respond in the same way.

Therapies like acupuncture, tuina, cupping, and gua sha are often used to ease muscular tension and promote circulation. These methods are commonly practised by physicians from registered TCM clinics in Singapore who draw on centuries of therapeutic principles to guide treatment.

Some patients who take muscle relaxants find that they do not help alleviate their pain, and so they visit TCM clinics to seek further care. From experience, TCM treatment such as acupuncture, tuina, cupping, and gua sha can provide another option for managing these conditions, which is why TCM continues to be a recognised choice for pain management in Singapore.

Some patients who take muscle relaxants find that they do not help alleviate their pain, and so they visit TCM clinics for further care. From experience, TCM treatment such as acupuncture, tuina, cupping, and gua sha may provide another option for managing these conditions in Singapore.

Consultation and Treatment Costs in Singapore

The cost of a consultation in Singapore may differ based on your condition and the type of TCM treatments recommended. Prices can also vary depending on the clinic’s location and experience of the attending professional.

The cost of herbal medication depends on what is prescribed. For instance, treatments for fertility may involve ingredients such as ginseng or deer antler (鹿茸), which are generally priced higher due to their nature and preparation requirements.

If you’re exploring your options for TCM in Singapore, it’s helpful to be aware of the typical price range before your first visit. For more information visit our team of TCM physicians, on our site.

Know Your Insurance Coverage Covers

Unfortunately, most TCM treatments are not Medisave claimable. However, some companies provide group insurance coverage for services performed by registered TCM clinics in Singapore who are affiliated with insurers such as AIA, Aviva, AXA, and Cigna. It’s advisable to check with your HR department to confirm your company’s policy. Additionally, many insurance plans cover treatment related to injuries caused by accidents.

Safety Standards in Chinese Medicine

Generally, Chinese medical treatments are safe when provided by qualified practitioners who have completed proper training. In Singapore, only those who have passed the Singapore TCM-Physicians Registration Exam (STRE) are authorised to practise. This regulatory process helps maintain consistent care standards and patient safety.

This is especially important in Singapore, where the practice is closely monitored to ensure patients receive safe and effective treatments from registered professionals in TCM clinics. Choosing certified practitioners allows you to have confidence in the quality of care provided.

Qualifications and Professional Standards of Practitioners

Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine in Singapore typically complete a 5-year degree followed by a licensing examination. Many of these professionals are graduates from institutions recognised by the Singapore Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board.

Similar to medical doctors and allied health professionals, they must meet mandatory Continuing Professional Education requirements to keep their practising licenses current. This ongoing training helps ensure their knowledge stays up to date, supporting consistent care quality for patients.

Finding the Right TCM Practitioner for You

Many therapies require consistent follow-ups and care over time. So, it’s important to work with someone you feel comfortable speaking with. Clear communication about your health concerns and treatment goals helps your practitioner personalise an approach that aligns with your needs.

It can also be helpful if your practitioner has some understanding of Western medicine, particularly when interpreting lab results or working alongside other healthcare professionals. If you’re looking for options in TCM Singapore, finding someone registered and experienced may offer added assurance.

How Effective Is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Many individuals continue to turn to long-standing healing methods to support recovery, manage chronic conditions, or maintain overall wellbeing. While some health concerns are best treated through conventional medical care in Singapore, approaches from Traditional Chinese Medicine for condition-specific care can still be relevant—particularly when used as complementary support. For example, individuals with lower vitality or conditions such as shingles (生蛇 / 带状疱疹) often find that a two-week course of care brings meaningful relief.

Muscle-related discomfort is also commonly addressed. Therapies like acupressure massage, cupping, and gua sha have helped many experience reduced pain and tension in just 1 to 3 sessions. When it comes to fertility support, treatment typically spans 3 to 6 menstrual cycles. In some cases, couples have conceived naturally within 3 cycles after following tailored recommendations closely. That said, these methods may not be appropriate for all situations. If a condition calls for surgery or specialist intervention, patients are encouraged to seek medical attention through hospitals.

In some cases, combining approaches can be beneficial. For instance, someone preparing for IVF may find that 3 to 4 months of Traditional Chinese Medicine support beforehand can help improve outcomes. The effectiveness of any treatment depends on the practitioner’s training and focus. It’s important to find a TCM Singapore practitioner you feel comfortable with—someone who provides clear guidance and takes the time to understand your needs.

As a TCM professional, I will not claim to be able to solve every health issue, especially if the patient’s
conditions require surgery, in which case, I would advise patients to seek treatment at the hospitals. Sometimes, TCM treatments work best concurrently with Western medicine. For example, a patient with blocked fallopian tubes may have to go for IVF treatment and complementary TCM treatment 3 to 6 months before the
commencement of  IVF treatment can improve their chance of getting pregnant. The efficacy of the Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments is dependent largely on the physician’s training and areas of expertise, which makes it paramount to find a good practitioner that you can trust.

How to Prepare for a Consultation

It helps to arrive with an open mind and a willingness to share. Bring along any recent lab test results or medical reports, especially if you’re seeking support for a specific condition. If your session includes acupuncture, wear loose, comfortable clothing—shorts are ideal. Most importantly, try to keep yourself relaxed and present during the session.

TCM approaches to healthcare can complement modern treatments effectively. For instance, acupuncture has been studied for its role in supporting patients undergoing fertility treatments such as IVF. It may help reduce anxiety and emotional distress, which can in turn support the overall process.

Other research has explored its potential to ease stress in individuals with high blood pressure or those in high-pressure environments like universities.

If you’re looking into options for TCM Singapore or simply curious about how such methods work alongside Western practices, research continues to grow in areas like sleep issues, mood disturbances, and cognitive conditions.

The short answer is yes, it can.

TCM offers a way for healthcare providers to assess and clinically manage patients with mental health conditions and integrates well with Western medicine. For example, when treating infertility, acupuncture has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety associated with the arduous IVF process, and hence, increases your chances of conceiving. Other studies examined a decrease in stress for patients with hypertension, or lowering perceived stress in students and faculty.

Beyond that, research into TCM in sleep and mood disorders supports acupuncture for treating insomnia. Other research areas examine use of herbal medicine for psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, and cognitive disorders like dementia.

Understanding the Benefits of Holistic Healing

I hope this article has given you a clearer insight into the approach and practices of Traditional Chinese medicine in Singapore. Acupuncture and herbal remedies have a history spanning over two millennia, with origins dating back to the 3rd century BCE. This form of healing might be just what you need to support your health journey.

Learn more about Physician Tay and his practice here.

For further reading on TCM, explore our collection of articles covering related topics. You may also find helpful information on complementary medicine in Singapore to deepen your understanding.