Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on YouTube Listen on Amazon Music

Links mentioned in this episode:

TCM Treatments for Allergies Masterclass

The Integrative Guide to Vitamins + Nutrients Online Course

Face Mapping in Chinese Medicine

Show Notes

Welcome back to The AcuPro Show , where we dive deep into the incredible world of Chinese medicine and acupuncture. I’m Clara Cohen, your host and fellow TCM Geek—here to help you make sense of this beautiful, ancient medicine in a way that’s clear, practical, and (let’s be honest) kind of fun. Whether you’re a TCM student, a seasoned practitioner, or just someone curious about Chinese medicine, you are in the right place.

In today’s episode, I take you inside a real-life TCM consultation with my longtime friend, Melissa. You’ve asked for this type of episode, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you.

The Health Puzzle: Digestion & Beyond

Melissa isn’t just a guest—she’s a friend and a rockstar for agreeing to openly share her health journey with all of us. During her live acupuncture consultation, she opened up about some persistent health challenges, allowing us to look at them through a TCM lens and build a treatment strategy together.

At just 33 and newly married (yay, Melissa!), she’s already faced some big hurdles—chronic constipation, digestive discomfort, and a gut microbiome that’s out of balance. She’s working closely with her naturopathic doctor and avoiding trigger foods like gluten, dairy, eggs, and beef, but her symptoms persist.

And like many patients we see in clinic, the story doesn’t stop there. Melissa also deals with sinus infections and seasonal allergies—lung-related issues that Traditional Chinese Medicine sees as connected to the digestive system. This is where a TCM consultation shines: by connecting the dots between seemingly unrelated symptoms.

The Metal Element Connection

According to TCM’s Five Element Theory, Melissa’s case reflects a Metal element imbalance—which governs the lung and large intestine. In other words, her upper respiratory and digestive symptoms are two sides of the same coin. And the relationship between Metal and Earth (the spleen and stomach) may be a key to restoring balance.

Creating a Customized TCM Treatment Plan

During her TCM consultation, I recommended a treatment plan that includes both acupuncture and dietary adjustments to strengthen her Spleen Qi and nourish her blood. Foods rich in healthy fats—think avocado, nuts, and fatty fish—can offer much-needed internal lubrication and help alleviate constipation caused by dryness.

Acupuncture-wise, we focused on points like:

• Lung 7 and Kidney 6: for dryness and boosting immunity

• Spleen 4 and Pericardium 6: to nourish blood and address emotional wellbeing

• Stomach 36 and Spleen 6: to support digestion and energy levels

Emotions and Digestion: A TCM Truth

One thing I love about TCM is how deeply it recognizes the connection between our emotions and physical health. Melissa’s recent life experiences—including wedding planning stress and grieving the loss of a loved one—are more than just emotional events. In Chinese medicine, grief can weaken the lungs, while overthinking and worry deplete the spleen.

So part of Melissa’s healing plan includes acknowledging and supporting her emotional health with counselling, mindfulness, and, of course—acupuncture.

The Heart of Holistic Care

Melissa isn’t going it alone. She’s working with a team of wellness professionals, from her naturopath and chiropractor to her counselor. This kind of collaborative care is a beautiful example of how Traditional Chinese Medicine consultations can complement and enhance other healing modalities.

Because TCM doesn’t replace—it integrates.

Final Thoughts: What a TCM Consultation Can Reveal

This episode was such a joy to record, and I hope this blog gives you a clear, helpful look into what a TCM consultation can reveal. When we listen to the body, connect patterns, and treat the whole person—amazing things can happen.

Thanks for being part of this journey with me! Don’t forget to follow the podcast and join me across socials @AcuProAcademy for more TCM tips, visuals, and nerdy goodness. Got questions? Drop them in the comments or DM me—I always love hearing from you.

Until next time, remember… acupuncture rocks, and so do you

Disclaimer

The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. Additionally, as well as users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

Need the podcast transcript? Click here!