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Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday 8am - 4pm

Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA), Suite 6A, 50-56 Sander Street, Upper Mount Gravatt (2025)

14/12/2025

Watermelon is more than just a delicious snack - it can also help reduce feelings of heat in Summer!

Watermelon is roughly 92% water, so it’s a fantastic food source of hydration. It also contains magnesium and potassium, which makes it a source of electrolytes. Instead of consuming electrolyte drinks that can contain unnatural colours and flavours, watermelon can be your go-to source of natural electrolytes during summer sport, gym sessions, or days at the beach.

In Chinese medicine we recommend eating according to the seasons so that your diet supports what your body needs at different times of the year. Watermelon has the properties of being naturally cooling, making it a perfect summer snack when it is at its peak season. In Chinese medicine diet therapy, we recommend watermelon to counteract the effects of Summer Heat, which can present as overall feelings of heat, thirst, dehydration, excessive sweating and irritability.

If you’d like to learn more about how different foods can help your body function optimally, reach out to your local Chinese medicine practitioner for individualised advice.

07/12/2025

People can either love or hate this time of the year, with the festive season often regarded as a stressful time of the year.

For some, the emotional strain of spending more time with relatives or the sadness of missing those no longer here. Loneliness, financial worry or perhaps driving to your holiday destination.

Stress can trigger a cascade of hormones that produce physiological changes such as digestive issues, sleep disorders, cardiovascular problems, weakened immune function, or simply muscle tension and headaches. Anxiety and depression can increase, causing social withdrawal, perhaps leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as increased smoking or drinking.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can assist with the effects to health stress may induce. It affects the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing muscles to relax and physical tension to ease assisting with sleep and digestion, and lowering cortisol (the ‘fight flight’ hormone) to reduce anxiety.

Clinically, depression is defined as having persistent feelings of sadness, despair, fatigue, and loss of interest. The pathophysiology of depression is regulated by the biosynthesis, transport and signalling of neurotransmitters [e.g., serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, or γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)] in the central nervous system ¹, all of which Acupuncture has been shown to affect.

Research shows that herbal medicines can modulate a broader spectrum of cellular pathways and processes to relieve depression. Chinese Medicine Practitioners will combine several herbs into specific formulas, based on the individual’s symptoms to achieve a beneficial therapeutic effect. ² This does not suggest the exclusion of GP prescribed medications if required.

To help you get through this silly season, find a registered practitioner today at http://acupuncture.org.au.

(1) https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1054726
(2) https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1217886

01/12/2025

Bao He Wan, or "Preserve Harmony Pill," is a Yuan Dynasty TCM formula for digestive woes from overindulgence. In Australia's summer, Christmas barbecues often cause bloating, indigestion, nausea, and fullness—symptoms associated with TCM's concept of "food stagnation."

Key Ingredients Eight synergistic herbs aid digestion without harsh laxatives:
• Shan Zha (Hawthorn Fruit): Breaks down fatty meats.
• Shen Qu (Medicated Leaven): Digests starches and alcohol.
• Mai Ya (Barley Sprout): Processes grains in breads/pastries.
• Ban Xia (Pinellia Rhizome): Eases nausea from seafood/creamy foods.
• Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel): Reduces bloating caused by drinking and eating too much.
• Fu Ling (Poria Mushroom): Strengthens digestion, removes fluid.
• Lian Qiao (Forsythia Fruit): Cools and clears irritation.
• Lai Fu Zi (Radish Seed): Relieves fullness by moving food.

TCM and Modern Use Overeating disrupts Spleen/Stomach Qi, causing stagnation. Bao He Wan clears it, easing indigestion, belching, and loose stools. Unlike antacids, it promotes food movement and long-term gut health; users report less post-meal fatigue. Modern research highlights hawthorn's antioxidants for fatty foods; Memorial Sloan Kettering notes benefits for nausea/diarrhea, though more studies are needed. Pair with mindful eating for best results.

Precautions Short-term use may cause mild diarrhea; avoid in pregnancy, severe illness, or weak digestion. Consult a TCM practitioner or doctor for interactions (e.g., pinellia with meds). Seek support from a registered Chinese herbalist.

Bao He Wan blends ancient wisdom with holiday habits, aiding recovery from festive feasts under professional guidance for enjoyable celebrations.

23/11/2025

Wondering what ‘squeaks’ more? Your knees or the stairs?

Knee Osteo Arthritis (KOA) is a painful ailment that can strike down the best of us. Whether from sporting injuries or trauma, an autoimmune condition, genetic make-up or simply an aging process catching up on your past activities; it can be difficult to manage.

KOA is more common in adults over 45 years, where the progressive loss of articular cartilage leads to bone rubbing on bone (the ‘squeak’) creating inflammation and pain.

While strengthening exercises and less weight bearing can assist with management of KOA, there is significant evidence emerging that acupuncture and electro acupuncture can help to reduce the inflammation and pain caused by this condition, perhaps delaying the need for surgical intervention. In general, because of its good analgesic effects and little or no side effects, acupuncture has been widely accepted all over the world for acute and chronic painful conditions such as OA.

Research has shown that acupuncture uses several mechanisms within the body to achieve relief from pain and inflammation, both in the periphery (such as immune cells and neurons, purinergic pathway, nociceptive ion channel, cannabinoid receptor and endogenous opioid peptide system) and the central nervous system (TPRV1, glutamate and its receptors, glial cells, GABAergic interneurons and signalling molecules). https://doi.org/10.1177/17448069231202882

Or simply stated acupuncture may help to get you back up those stairs!

While studies show some clear benefits of acupuncture for KOA, there is still a need for more high-quality, comprehensive research to fully verify its effectiveness and optimal use.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-025-02762-x

16/11/2025

Stress, we talk about it all the time.

Work, life, the Universe and everything can create stress and with it come anxious, sleepless nights. Often between 1 and 3AM when our minds worry us awake trying to solve nagging problems.

If we are lucky, disturbed sleep will be the only issue stress causes. But often anxiety, stomach upsets, jaw clenching, tight neck and shoulders and headaches appear as well. Maybe you get a bit snappy or just do not feel like taking part. You are not alone.

Global research company Ipsos and its 2024 World Mental Health Day report looked at thirty one countries and how people view mental health care. It found that 62 percent of people across these countries feel stressed. Women reported higher stress at 66 percent compared with men at 58 percent, and Gen Z females were the most likely to experience sadness or hopelessness. (1)

There is help and hope nearby. Alongside exercise and a good diet, acupuncture may support better sleep, relaxation and resilience and here is how.

Heart Rate Variability, HRV, is one of the most sensitive measures of the body’s ability to cope with stress. Higher HRV is linked with lower anxiety. Research shows that acupuncture can improve HRV. (2)

Research also shows that acupuncture can calm the response to stress by increasing feel good endorphins that help regulate pain, heart rate, blood pressure and digestion. (3)

Visiting your acupuncturist when you feel stressed may help you sleep better, relax in body and mind and support overall wellbeing.

So the next time you are trying to solve the world’s problems at 2AM, visit https://acupuncture.org.au and find your nearest Chinese Medicine Practitioner.

Make some time for yourself and give it a try.

(1) https://www.ipsos.com/en-id/ipsos-world-mental-health-day-report-2024
(2) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2007.06.042
(3) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2005.08.011

09/11/2025

Frozen shoulder is a common condition that can cause significant pain and disruption in ability to do daily tasks. In Chinese medicine, we view frozen shoulder quite literally, the joint is cold and "frozen" with reduced range of motion.

Symptoms include pain in the shoulder that may be localised or radiate down the arm, as well as reduced range of motion and ability to raise the arms above 90 degrees.

Research has shown that acupuncture for frozen shoulder can reduce pain, restore shoulder function, and increase range of motion in both the short term and long term.

Another treatment your acupuncturist may employ for your frozen shoulder is the use of moxibustion. Moxibustion is the burning of a herb called Mugwort above the skin to warm the acupuncture channels and general area. Research has shown that the combination of moxibustion and acupuncture is superior to acupuncture alone.

If you've been struggling with the pain and limitation of frozen shoulder, find your local AACMA registered acupuncturist to get some support today.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7532995/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31056885/

02/11/2025

A recent Acupuncture randomised clinical trial, involving 800 participants aged 65 and older, demonstrates that acupuncture combined with usual medical care significantly reduced back pain-related disability by 1.0 to 1.5 points on the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire compared to usual care alone.

These improvements were sustained at 12 months, with a favourable safety profile and minimal adverse events.

The trial addresses a critical gap, as chronic low back pain affects over one-third of U.S. adults aged 65+, incurring annual costs exceeding $134 billion. Conducted across diverse health systems, the study highlights the efficacy of standard and enhanced acupuncture protocols, with high adherence rates (>80%).

While secondary outcomes in physical function and mood showed no significant differences, the findings support acupuncture as a low-risk, first-line option—potentially informing Medicare coverage expansions.

Full study: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2838793

26/10/2025

(PART 3) Gentle Exercises: Move with the season's upward energy!

• Walking or even Tai Chi in parks to unblock Qi – aim for 20-30 minutes daily exercise in Australia's mild spring weather.
• Stretching/yoga: Focus on poses like Tree Pose or forward bends to release tendon tension and enhance flexibility.
• Outdoor activities: Hiking, cycling, or qigong to align with nature's growth—perfect for spots like the Blue Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland or coastal trails.
• Simple Self-Massage & Acupressure: Daily rituals Dao Yin to soothe the Liver.
• Taichong (LV3): On the top of each foot (between big toe and second toe, ~Proximal from the web). Rub in circles for 1-2 mins per side to ease stress and headaches. (Avoid if pregnant or with wounds.)
• Extended: Add Qu Quan (LV8) inside the knee (in the crease) – knead gently for Liver support. Or massage temples and neck to relieve wind-related tension.
• Holistic Self-Care Practices:
• Mindfulness & Emotions: Journal to process anger; practice deep breathing or meditation visualising green light flowing through your body.
• Sound Therapy: Listen to soft, flowing music (e.g., bamboo flute or nature sounds) to encourage relaxation and Qi circulation.
• Detox & Lifestyle: Rise early with the sun, avoid heavy fats/alcohol to lighten the Liver.
Embrace change—start a new hobby or declutter for that "new beginnings" vibe.
• Australian Twist: Combat Spring allergies with neti pot rinses or eucalyptus steam; enjoy picnics with seasonal greens to stay grounded in our biodiversity.

Share or tag a friend who would benefit from supporting their body with these tips for Spring. Consult a TCM practitioner for personalised advice.

21/10/2025

(PART 3) Gentle Exercises: Move with the season's upward energy!

• Walking or even Tai Chi in parks to unblock Qi – aim for 20-30 minutes daily exercise in Australia's mild spring weather.
• Stretching/yoga: Focus on poses like Tree Pose or forward bends to release tendon tension and enhance flexibility.
• Outdoor activities: Hiking, cycling, or qigong to align with nature's growth—perfect for spots like the Blue Mountains, Sunshine Coast Hinterland or coastal trails.
• Simple Self-Massage & Acupressure: Daily rituals Dao Yin to soothe the Liver.
• Taichong (LV3): On the top of each foot (between big toe and second toe, ~Proximal from the web). Rub in circles for 1-2 mins per side to ease stress and headaches. (Avoid if pregnant or with wounds.)
• Extended: Add Qu Quan (LV8) inside the knee (in the crease) – knead gently for Liver support. Or massage temples and neck to relieve wind-related tension.
• Holistic Self-Care Practices:
• Mindfulness & Emotions: Journal to process anger; practice deep breathing or meditation visualising green light flowing through your body.
• Sound Therapy: Listen to soft, flowing music (e.g., bamboo flute or nature sounds) to encourage relaxation and Qi circulation.
• Detox & Lifestyle: Rise early with the sun, avoid heavy fats/alcohol to lighten the Liver.
Embrace change—start a new hobby or declutter for that "new beginnings" vibe.
• Australian Twist: Combat Spring allergies with neti pot rinses or eucalyptus steam; enjoy picnics with seasonal greens to stay grounded in our biodiversity.

Share or tag a friend who would benefit from supporting their body with these tips for Spring. Consult a TCM practitioner for personalised advice.

19/10/2025

(PART 2) Nurturing Wood Energy: Extended Tips for Spring Wellness:

• Seasonal Foods: Embrace sour and green flavours to detox the Liver and promote Qi flow.

Try Including:

• Sour: Lemons, limes, green apples, plums, grapes, vinegar (in dressings or pickles).
• Green veggies: Sprouts (alfalfa, mung bean), leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce, Bok choy), broccoli, asparagus, celery or wheatgrass.
• Herbs & more: Fresh mint, basil, parsley; pungent additions like garlic, onions, or ginger for extra circulation.
• Fermented foods: Yogurt, sauerkraut, or kimchi. In Australia, incorporate local produce like warrigal greens or finger limes for a native oz twist!
• TCM herbs (consult a practitioner): Bupleurum (for Liver Qi stagnation), Cyperus (to soothe emotions), or dandelion for detox.
• Cooking Styles: Light and quick methods like steaming, blanching, or stir-frying to preserve freshness and promote upward energy flow, avoiding heavy or overcooked meals that could stagnate Qi.
• Possible Western Dishes: Spring salad with mixed greens, sprouts, and lemon vinaigrette; asparagus stir-fry with garlic and ginger; green apple and kale smoothie; light vegetable stir-fry with Bok choy and fermented yogurt dip.

Share or tag a friend who would benefit from supporting their body with these tips for Spring. Consult a TCM practitioner for personalised advice.

12/10/2025

(PART 1) As we are in Spring in Australia (September to November), let's learn about the Wood element (木 mù) from the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Five Elements theory which offers a profound framework for harmonizing health with nature's cycles.

• Wood (Spring): Growth, renewal, flexibility – the focus of this post!
• Fire (Summer): Expansion, joy, peak vitality
• Earth (Late Summer/Transitions): Stability, nourishment, centring
• Metal (Autumn): Introspection, release, refinement
• Water (Winter): Rest, conservation, wisdom

With our southern hemisphere's unique rhythm—when jacarandas are blooming, warming breezes, and native wildflowers like kangaroo paw awakening—spring is a time of vibrant renewal after winter's chill and hibernation. It's perfect for shedding stagnation and embracing growth, especially with Australia's outdoor-loving culture. But watch for seasonal winds and pollen, which can stir your Liver Qi!

Key Characteristics of the Wood Element:

• Season & Direction: Spring; East Direction– symbolising new beginnings, upward expansion, and the flexibility of sapling trees bending in the wind.
• Colour & Climate: Green; Windy – think lush green Aussie landscapes coming alive!
• Emotional Aspect: Anger or frustration (imbalanced); benevolence, kindness, and decisiveness (harmonised). Imbalances may show as irritability, indecision, or emotional outbursts.
• Organs & Body Associations: Liver (Yin, governs smooth Qi and blood flow) and Gallbladder (Yang, supports courage and planning). Also linked to sinews/tendons (for flexibility), nails (strength), and eyes (vision/clarity).

Symptoms of imbalance: Tension headaches, eye strain, brittle nails, muscle stiffness, or digestive woes like IBS.

In the Australian spring season, Wood energy fuels creativity and action—ideal for hiking in national parks or beach yoga. But modern stressors (urban life) can block this flow, leading to "stuck" or stagnation of Qi energy.

Your local acupuncturist can help unblock that stuck Qi to get you feeling your best this Spring. Click to find your local acupuncturist.

09/10/2025

Today is World Mental Health Day.

Holistic ways to support your mental health can include getting regular exercise, meditating or taking time out to relax each day, getting a full night’s sleep, and acupuncture.

Acupuncture is known to regulate the nervous system, promote relaxation, and reduce stress hormones. How does it do this? When an acupuncture point is placed on your limbs, it sends a signal from your peripheral nerves to your brain. Medical research has shown this can down-regulate the sympathetic nervous system (reducing stress), and activate the parasympathetic nervous system (inducing relaxation and repair mode).

In terms of stress reduction, acupuncture has been shown to reduce elevated cortisol levels, leaving you better able to cope with the day to day stressors of life.

AACMA has thousands of qualified acupuncturists ready to look after your mental health and wellbeing. Find one now.

Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)

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Monday	8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday	8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday	8am - 4pm