Questions about Chinese medicine

No. Chinese medicine and acupuncture are not covered by OHIP, but many extended health plans do cover our services. Check your plan to confirm you are covered and for how much.

No. You pay at your appointment by cash, debit, credit card or e-transfer, and we give you a receipt to submit to your extended health plan.

Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule; otherwise a $90 fee may be charged. Arriving more than 15 minutes late counts as a missed appointment, and a $90 fee is charged.

Herbal formulas are not included in consultation or treatment fees. Herbs generally cost $5–8 a day, depending on the formula.

Yes. Plenty of free parking at the building.

We are on the second level of the building. The stairwell to the second floor is next to the restaurant Rice and Noodles. The clinic is up one flight of stairs, with no elevator. If stairs are difficult for you, please call before booking.

We work out a diagnosis based on Traditional Chinese Medicine theory: a lot of questions, looking at your tongue and taking your pulse. That tells us why you are experiencing your symptoms and shapes your treatment plan.

Acupuncture is a healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote natural healing and balance.

Acupuncture is generally not painful. The needles are extremely thin, about 0.14 to 0.30 mm across, and not hollow like the needles used to draw blood. Most people feel a slight tingling, heaviness or warmth, and many find treatment relaxing.

It varies with your condition and how your body responds. Acute issues may need fewer sessions, while chronic conditions need several over time. Plan on 5–10 treatments to judge progress; we will discuss a plan with you.

Side effects are generally rare and minor: slight bruising, bleeding, or temporary soreness where a needle went in. Serious complications are extremely uncommon when treatment is given by a trained professional.

Yes. Acupuncture can be adapted for people of all ages with gentler, modified techniques.

Wear comfortable clothing and avoid a heavy meal or caffeine right before your session. Tell us about any medical conditions, medications, or concerns you have.

When performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is considered safe.

Acupuncture inserts needles at points on the body, while acupressure applies pressure to the same points.

In Ontario, look for a practitioner registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO), using the designations R.Ac or R.TCMP.

Chinese herbal medicine uses natural herbs and botanical substances to address health conditions and support well-being, based on a Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis.

When prescribed by a qualified practitioner, Chinese herbs are generally safe. We consider your health conditions, constitution and any medications you take, to avoid interactions. Always tell us what else you are taking.

Yes. Each formula is built from your own diagnosis, combining several herbs for your pattern rather than using one product for everyone.

As decoctions (boiled teas), granules, powders, capsules or pills. The form depends on your preference and the nature of the condition.

Progress is usually reviewed after a few weeks. How you respond depends on your diagnosis, and chronic or complex conditions take longer.

Chinese herbal medicine can complement conventional treatment. Tell us about every medication and supplement you take so we can check for interactions.