Have you lost your sense of taste or smell after the flu or a COVID-19 infection? Youâre not alone. For many people, these senses donât bounce back right away â and it can be incredibly frustrating. At Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we often see patients navigating this lingering symptom. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal support may offer a helpful and holistic way to encourage your recovery.
Why It Happens: A Chinese Medicine Perspective
In Chinese Medicine (CM), taste and smell loss after a viral infection is viewed as more than just a lingering effect â it points to an internal imbalance.
Hereâs how CM explains it:
Lung and Spleen system disruption: Viral infections like flu or COVID are seen as external pathogens attacking the Lungs. The Lungs control the nose and breathing. The Spleen, meanwhile, affects digestion and taste.
Lingering pathogen + Phlegm-Damp: Even after recovery, your body may still hold onto some residual âpathogen,â which combines with weakened digestion to create internal âblockage.â This is known as Phlegm-Damp in CM, and it can clog up the sensory pathways.
Qi and Blood stagnation: The inflammation or stress from illness may slow down circulation and energy flow, reducing function in the nose and mouth.
Qi deficiency: After fighting off a virus, your bodyâs energy â especially Lung and Spleen Qi â may be depleted, making it harder to bounce back fully.
How Chinese Medicine Supports Recovery
At Almond Wellness Centre, we take a whole-body approach to post-viral recovery. Hereâs what support may involve:
Acupuncture
We use acupuncture to support your bodyâs energy flow and help clear blockages affecting the nose and mouth. This includes:
Local points on the face and nose (e.g. Yingxiang LI20, Bitong, Yintang)
Points to support Lung and Spleen function
Points that help clear Phlegm and improve circulation
Acupuncture may help by improving blood flow, calming inflammation, and stimulating the nervous system.
Research spotlight:
A study in OtolaryngologyâHead and Neck Surgery found acupuncture may help patients with persistent post-viral smell loss recover more effectively.
A 2022 case report documented improvements in two COVID-related smell loss cases after acupuncture at facial points like LI20 and Yintang.
An article in Journal of Alternative Complementary & Integrative Medicine highlighted acupuncture as a promising option for long-COVID symptoms, including smell and taste dysfunction.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal support is tailored to your individual pattern. Your practitioner may focus on:
Clearing lingering heat or toxins
Transforming Phlegm and Damp with herbs like Ban Xia, Chen Pi, Cang Er Zi
Opening the sensory orifices using aromatic herbs like Xin Yi Hua, Bai Zhi, Bo He
Supporting Qi and Blood flow with herbs like Huang Qi, Dang Shen, Chuan Xiong
Strengthening the Lungs and Spleen to aid long-term recovery
Other Helpful Techniques
Moxibustion: This gentle warming technique supports energy and circulation, especially when fatigue is present.
Herbal steam or nasal rinses: May assist in clearing nasal passages.
Olfactory training: Smell training using strong scents like clove, lemon, and eucalyptus is often recommended and supported by research in both Western and Chinese medicine circles.
What You Can Expect
Recovery takes time â usually weeks to a few months.
Gradual progress is common. Many people notice small but steady improvements.
Individualised support matters. The right approach depends on your specific pattern.
Medical checkups still important. Make sure your doctor has ruled out other causes like sinusitis or neurological issues.
Final Thoughts
Loss of taste and smell after flu or COVID-19 can be slow to resolve. While it may come back on its own, many people look for extra support to speed things up or feel more in control of the process. At Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we use a blend of acupuncture, herbal support, and whole-body care to help restore your senses and strengthen your recovery.
If youâve been waiting weeks or months with little change, it may be worth exploring what Chinese Medicine has to offer. Book a consultation to find out more â weâre here to help you through it.
References
Deng X, Zhang Y, Guo X, et al. Acupuncture for the treatment of post-viral olfactory dysfunction: A pilot study.Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010;142(3):488-493.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.otohns.2009.12.006
Bai W, Li J, Yang S. Case Report: Acupuncture is an effective treatment for olfactory dysfunction in the post-COVID-19 condition. ResearchGate. 2022.
Qiang W, Kang Y, et al. Acupuncture effects on COVID-19 long-hauler syndrome. Journal of Alternative Complementary & Integrative Medicine. 2022. Herald Open Access
HealthCMi Staff. Acupuncture for COVID-19 loss of smell and taste. HealthCMi.com.
https://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/2066-acupuncture-for-covid-19-loss-of-smell-and-taste
HealthCMi Staff. Acupuncture targets long COVID neurological and sensory symptoms. HealthCMi.com.
https://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/2350-acupuncture-targets-long-covid-neurological-and-sensory-symptoms
Gentle, Holistic Support for Cancer Patients in Palliative Care
At Almond Wellness Centre (Melbourne Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Centre), we are here to support cancer patients and their families during the most delicate times. Through acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, we provide natural, evidence-informed care designed to reduce symptoms, improve comfort, and support emotional and physical wellbeing during palliative care.
We also support patients with Home Care Packages (HCP) across Melbourneâs eastern and northern suburbs, including Ringwood, Croydon, Box Hill, Doncaster, Coburg and Preston
How We Can Help
Our integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approach combines acupuncture with customised herbal formulas to gently support the body and mind through palliative cancer care.
Our herbal formulas are selected based on your condition and care goals. Many are available in granule or capsule form, making them easier to take during periods of low energy.
All herbs we use are from trusted Australian suppliers and meet TGA safety standards.
Who We Support
We welcome:
â Cancer patients receiving palliative or supportive care
â Individuals using Home Care Packages (HCP)
â Families seeking safe, natural, gentle care options
â Carers looking for complementary therapies to ease discomfort and promote calm
We are experienced in collaborating with family members, aged care coordinators, and case managers to ensure your care is smooth and supportive.
Using Your Home Care Package (HCP)
If youâre on a Aged Care Home Care Package, you may be able to use your funding to access our services.
We can help by:
Communicating with your HCP provider
Providing treatment plans and documentation
Offering regular sessions to reduce symptoms and maintain comfort
Feel free to contact us for help with the process.
Why Choose Almond Wellness Centre?
đż Experienced Registered TCM Practitioners
đż Supportive, Gentle Approach for Cancer Care
đż Convenient Clinics in Ringwood and Coburg
đż Trusted by Melbourne Families for Over 15 Years
đż Multilingual Service â Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese & English
đż HCP-Friendly â We help you get the most from your package
You’re Not Alone â We’re Here to Support You
Palliative care is about comfort, dignity, and quality of life. At Almond Wellness Centre, our focus is on helping you feel more at ease â physically, emotionally, and spiritually â using the time-tested wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be gentle companions on your care journey. Contact us today to see how we can help.
Book an Appointment Today
Let us walk this journey with you. Whether you’re managing cancer symptoms, emotional wellbeing, or simply seeking comfort, we are here for you.
A major international study published in The Lancet Psychiatry has found that babies born with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop mental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Led by researchers at the University of Queensland, the study analysed vitamin D levels from more than 70,000 Danish newborns using blood samples collected shortly after birth. The findings revealed a clear association: babies with âvery lowâ vitamin D (under 25 nmol/L) had a significantly higher risk of developing certain psychiatric conditions later in life.
Why This Matters
Newborns cannot produce their own vitamin D. They rely entirely on what is transferred from the mother during pregnancy. This means maintaining healthy vitamin D levels during pregnancy is not just important for bone health â it may play a crucial role in brain development.
Whatâs Next for Australia?
The federal government is reviewing pregnancy care guidelines, with vitamin D supplementation under scrutiny. While current guidelines already recommend prenatal vitamin D, routine testing isnât yet advised. Experts urge caution: âMental health is multifactorial,â says obstetrician Amanda Henry, âbut optimising maternal nutrition remains key.â
Recent reports from ABC News indicate a growing awareness and diagnosis of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) among Australian women. This severe form of PMS significantly impacts mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Are you experiencing intense mood swings, anxiety, or fatigue before your period? You might be dealing with PMDD.
What is PMDD? Recognising Severe PMS Symptoms
PMDD is a hormone-related mood disorder occurring in the lead-up to menstruation. Unlike typical PMS, PMDD symptoms are debilitating and can disrupt daily life. Common signs include:
Extreme mood changes and emotional sensitivity
Increased irritability, anxiety, or feelings of depression
Persistent fatigue, sleep problems, or insomnia
Physical symptoms like body aches, breast tenderness, and bloating
If these monthly symptoms are affecting your work, relationships, and overall mental health, know that you’re not alone.
Natural PMDD Support: How TCM and Acupuncture Can Help
At Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we offer natural and holistic approaches to managing PMDD through acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). These therapies aim to rebalance hormones, alleviate stress, and reduce both emotional and physical symptoms effectively.
Natural Strategies for Managing PMDD Symptoms:
Cycle Tracking: Monitor your menstrual cycle to anticipate and manage symptoms proactively.
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs: Explore how these TCM practices can support hormonal equilibrium and ease mood-related issues.
Stress Reduction and Rest: Prioritise relaxation techniques to regulate hormone fluctuations.
Dietary Adjustments: Limit caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods in the week preceding your period, as they can exacerbate symptoms.
Seek Supportive Healthcare: Connect with a healthcare professional who understands the impact of PMDD.
Find Natural PMDD Relief in Melbourne at Almond Wellness Centre
Almond Wellness Centre provides compassionate and experienced care for women in Melbourne dealing with PMDD, PMS, and other hormonal imbalances. Located in Coburg and Ringwood, our acupuncture clinics offer a supportive environment to help you feel more balanced naturally.
đż Discover natural relief from PMDD. Book your appointment today!
đ» Call 03 8802 15619
đ Almond Wellness Centre â Your trusted Melbourne clinic for acupuncture and women’s health.
Discover the two best acupuncture points for effective morning sickness relief: PC6 (Neiguan) and ST36 (Zusanli). At Almond Wellness Centre we offer expert prenatal acupuncture to help expectant mothers find natural, drug-free relief. Learn about these proven points and how acupuncture can reduce nausea and improve digestion during your pregnancy.
Effective Acupuncture Points for Pregnancy Nausea:
ST36 (Zusanli):
The Premier Anti-Nausea Acupuncture Point
Location: Below the knee, one finger-width outside the shinbone.
Benefits: Improves stomach function to alleviate nausea and enhances nutrient absorption.
PC6 (Neiguan):
Acupuncture for Digestion and Emotions in Pregnancy
Location: Inner forearm, 3 finger-widths above the wrist.
Benefits: Reduces nausea and vomiting intensity; safe for all pregnancy trimesters.
Research supports acupuncture’s effectiveness for morning sickness, showing significant nausea reduction and fewer vomiting episodes without the side effects of medication. At Almond Wellness Centre, we provide natural and effective acupuncture treatments tailored for pregnancy.
acupuncture on Nei guan PC6
Combine Acupuncture with Natural Remedies:
Consider ginger, Vitamin B6 + doxylamine, and sea bands for additional relief.
Ready to Ease Your Morning Sickness?
Contact Almond Wellness Centre for a consultation and experience the benefits of acupuncture.
FAQ:
Q: Is acupuncture safe in the first trimester?
A: Yes, when performed by a licensed acupuncturist trained in prenatal care. We avoid certain points and use gentle techniques.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: Most patients see improvement immediately, though severe cases may require weekly treatments.
Can Acupuncture Help High FSH and Low Ovarian Reserve?
A 38-year-old woman came to our Melbourne acupuncture clinic after being diagnosed with premature ovarian failure (POF). Her doctors advised her that IVF with a donor egg was her only option for pregnancy. However, she wanted to conceive using her own eggs and sought an alternative approach.
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I designed a personalised treatment plan incorporating fertility acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and dietary adjustments to:
Regulate her menstrual cycle
Improve ovarian function
Lower FSH and enhance hormone balance
Reduce stress and anxiety
After several months of treatment, her hormone levels improved significantly, and she conceived naturally. This case highlights how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can support reproductive health, even in cases of high FSH and low ovarian reserve.
Case Overview: Acupuncture for High FSH and Low AMH
A 28-year-old woman presented with:
Extremely high Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels (135 IU/L)
Low Anti-MĂŒllerian Hormone (AMH)
No antral follicles detected on ultrasound, indicating a very low ovarian reserve
She had not yet tried to conceive but wanted to optimise her fertility. Stress from her fatherâs battle with cancer had also impacted her hormonal balance.
Medical History
Menstrual Irregularities: Regular periods on the contraceptive pill for 10 years. After stopping, her cycles were irregular, and by July 2016, her periods stopped completely.
Symptoms: Despite high FSH, she had no menopausal symptoms (e.g., hot flashes). She felt mildly anxious but otherwise stable. Her digestion was good, and she had minor sleep disturbances.
Ultrasound Findings: No antral follicles visible in either ovary, suggesting inactive ovaries.
Acupuncture and Herbal Treatment Plan
Acupuncture to regulate hormones, improve ovarian function, and reduce stress
Chinese herbal medicine (including Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Shan Yao, Shu Di) to nourish the blood, strengthen the kidneys, and regulate the liver
Lifestyle and dietary modifications to support overall reproductive health
Support ovarian function, even with low AMH and no antral follicles
Reduce stress and improve menstrual cycles
Increase the chances of natural conception
For women struggling with high FSH, premature ovarian failure (POF), or low ovarian reserve, acupuncture and Chinese medicine may provide a natural, non-invasive treatment option.
Find Expert Acupuncture for Fertility in Melbourne
If you have been diagnosed with high FSH, low AMH, or premature ovarian failure, and wonder if acupuncture & Chinese herbal medicine can offer natural solutions, please contact us today to learn how acupuncture and TCM can support your fertility journey.
Disclaimer: This case study is for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
In Chinese medicine, Plum Pit Syndrome is often linked to emotional stressâthings like anxiety, frustration, or even long-held sadness. These emotions can cause your Qi (the bodyâs vital energy) to get stuck, especially in the liver. When Qi stagnates, it can create phlegm that seems to block your throat, causing that all-too-familiar sensation.
But hereâs the good news: by addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of this condition, you can find relief and get back to feeling like yourself again.
How Acupuncture Can Ease That Stuck Feeling
Acupuncture is a gentle yet powerful way to help your body relax, move the Qi, and clear out the phlegm thatâs causing discomfort. Hereâs how it works:
Releasing Stuck Qi: If stress is affecting you, you might feel it in your body, especially in your throat. Acupuncture points like Liver 3 (Taichong) can help release the tension and get your Qi flowing smoothly again.
Supporting Digestive Health: Your digestive system plays a huge role in how your body handles stress and phlegm. Points like Stomach 36 (Zusanli) can help balance your stomach and spleen, reducing the buildup that might be causing your symptoms.
Opening the Throat: Using points like Ren 22 (Tiantu), we can help open up the throat area, making that lump-in-throat feeling fade away over time.
Calming the Mind: Emotional well-being is crucial. Points like Heart 7 (Shenmen) are chosen to calm your mind and help you feel more at peace, reducing the stress that often contributes to Plum Pit Syndrome.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Your Ally in Healing
Alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine offers a powerful way to support your healing journey. We might suggest specific formulas that match your symptoms:
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang (Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction): This classic formula is often our go-to for Plum Pit Syndrome. It helps clear phlegm and move Qi, addressing the root causes of that lump-in-throat feeling.
Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder): If emotional stress is at the core of your symptoms, this formula can help by smoothing the flow of Liver Qi and easing tension.
Er Chen Tang (Two-Cured Decoction): For those dealing with a lot of phlegm, this formula works to clear it out, helping you feel more comfortable and at ease.
What You Can Do to Support Your Healing
We believe in taking a holistic approach, which means there are things you can do at home to support your treatment:
Stress Management: Incorporate practices like meditation or deep breathing into your daily routine to help manage stress. Physical exercises such as walking, jogging, or yoga can also be incredibly beneficial in keeping your body and mind balanced.
Build Positive Connections: Engaging in more positive social interactions can boost your emotional well-being. Try to limit time spent on social media, especially avoiding negative content that might increase stress levels.
Healthy Eating: Choose a diet thatâs light and easy on your digestion. Avoiding heavy, greasy foods can reduce phlegm and keep your Qi flowing smoothly.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and warm herbal teas can help your body clear phlegm and stay balanced.
Weâre Here to Help You Feel Better
You donât have to face that lump-in-throat feeling alone. Our approach is all about supporting you physically and emotionally as you work towards feeling better. Together, weâll help you find relief and regain your sense of well-being, one step at a time.
Struggling with itchy, uncomfortable eyes can be really frustrating. If youâve been searching for relief, youâre in the right place. Traditional Chinese medicine offers a simple yet effective solution with two amazing herbs: Dandelion (èČć Źè±) and Tribulus terrestris (çœèșè).
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herb pu gong ying – dandelion
Why Dandelion and Tribulus terrestris Work Wonders
Both of these herbs have been cherished in Chinese medicine for their ability to soothe eye discomfort. According to the “Pharmacological Rhymes” (ăèŻæ§è”ă), dandelion helps with issues like breast abscesses and promotes the smooth flow of Qi, while Tribulus terrestris is known for treating skin sores and improving eye health.
These herbs are recommended together for their gentle yet powerful effects on eye problems such as itchiness, dryness, and irritation. People love this combination for its natural approach to eye care.
herb bai ji li – Tribulus Terrestris
How to Use These Herbs
Using these herbs is straightforward. Hereâs how you can prepare the remedy:
Ingredients: Combine 50 grams of dandelion with 50 grams of Tribulus terrestris.
Preparation: Blend the herbs and grind them into a coarse powder.
Dosage: Take 10 grams of the herb powder and steep it in boiling water to make a tea. Drink this tea twice daily.
This formula has been beneficial for many people. Since dandelion grows abundantly in the wild, it is an easily accessible remedy.
Additional Benefits
Dandelion’s benefits extend beyond the eyes. It can also assist with other conditions such as pneumonia, esophagitis, cholecystitis, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Its mild nature makes it a valuable remedy. When paired with goldenfruit cornlily, dandelion enhances treatments for chronic gastritis and gastric ulcers.
A Trusted Formula
The well-known Chinese medicine expert Zhang Xichun praised dandelion for its role in treating various eye issues, including swelling, pain, pterygium, red veins, eye pressure pain, photophobia, and excessive tearing. Whether taken internally or used as a wash, dandelion provides noticeable relief, especially for dry, itchy eyes in elderly individuals.
Zhang Xichun also shared an effective dandelion decoction formula:
Ingredients: Four taels of fresh dandelion (including root, leaves, stem, and flower) or two taels of dried dandelion if fresh is not available.
Preparation: Boil the herbs to make two large bowls of decoction.
Usage: Drink one bowl of the warm decoction and use the remaining bowl for hot compresses and eye washing.
This formula has been beneficial for many people. Since dandelion grows abundantly in the wild, it is an easily accessible remedy.
Final Advice
Traditional Chinese medicine offers many natural solutions for common health issues. If youâre dealing with itchy eyes, consider trying dandelion and white tribulus. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
At Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we offer not only raw dried herbs but also convenient herbal granules. These granules are extracted and concentrated, so you get the benefits of traditional Chinese herbal medicine without the hassle of preparation. Itâs a great option for anyone who wants to simplify their wellness routine.
Disclaimer:
This post shares knowledge about traditional Chinese medicine. The herbal formulas mentioned are for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
