There are a handful of other skills and techniques an acupuncturist can bring to the treatment room.

Moxibustion is the gentle burning of dried, rolled Mugwort leaves. It can be placed on the end of a needle, or onto the skin for direct moxibustion of specific acupuncture points. Alternatively, indirect moxibustion via the use of a cigar shaped roll may be used along a channel or over a larger area such as the uterus or lower back. It is a therapy that gently heats and nourishes Qi and Blood, relaxing the patient.

A vacuum is created inside a clean glass cup by briefly inserting a flame, and placing the cup firmly onto the skin. Cupping is  a therapy that is particularly good at moving Qi and Blood stagnation in an area of trauma, or for expelling cold and phlegm from the Lungs.

Dietary Advice:

Chinese Food Energetics theory describes food as possessing qualities such as warming or cooling, nourishing or clearing; for example chilli peppers and garlic are both energetically hot, whereas cucumber and watermelon are energetically cold. The energetic temperature of food is a measure of its direct effect on the body after digestion, not necessarily it's physical temperature to the touch. For example, a red apple is energetically warmer than a green apple, despite them both feeling exactly the same temperature on the outside.

However, the energetic quality of food may also be influenced by the cooking or preparation method. Each food also has a particular flavour which pertains to one of the Five Elements. For example, the salty flavour belongs to the Water Element and enters its organ - the Kidney; so a little salt will benefit that organ, but too much will inhibit its action. 

Similarly, eating sweet foods or dairy will make a phlegmy condition, such as sinusitis, worse; consuming bitter or pungent flavours - onions, mustard, olives or green tea - will help clear the mucus. If appropriate, your acupuncturist may suggest foods to avoid, or foods to add into your diet. This therapy may contribute towards a more effective overall treatment plan.