Practicalities

Traditional Chinese Medicine

If you’re looking for traditional Chinese remedies to treat illness, there are plenty of places in Hong Kong where you can try therapies such as acupuncture, cupping, and herbal remedies, plus Tui Na massage and reflexology. The first Chinese medicine hospital in Hong Kong is expected to commence services in phases starting in 2025, which will bring even more Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) options to the city.

Acupuncture, recognised as a therapeutic modality by the World Health Organization (WHO) involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the skin and in the muscles. This practise aims to relieve discomfort from various conditions, ranging from migraines to respiratory disorders.

Said to restore energy balance, Chinese herbs, including astralagus, ginkgo, and ginseng, remain popular in Hong Kong for their purported abilities to treat everything from asthma to skin allergies. Herb mixture can be delivered in pre-boiled liquid packets or as powder. A reminder, though – do consult a registered Chinese medicine practitioner before use.

Cupping, which involves plating heated cups on the skin to remove toxins and awaken certain acupoints, is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy for muscle soreness, sports injuries, and physical imbalances. A mix of acupressure and Shiatsu, Tui Na massages are utilised for chronic pain and numb limbs and joints. Reflexology, which applies pressure to areas of the feet to keep the energy flowing through the body, can help lower stress levels.