Tian Jiu, also known as Herbal Acupoint Patching, is a traditional external therapy used in Chinese medicine. Warming Chinese herbal preparations are applied to selected acupuncture points for a set period, with the choice of points, herbal preparation and timing based on the individual’s Chinese medicine assessment.
Many people first come across this therapy during the summer Sanfu period, but it may also be offered during winter.
Why are there two treatment periods?
In Chinese medicine, seasonal changes are traditionally considered when planning care. Summer and winter Herbal Acupoint Patching have different but complementary roles, with treatment adapted to the individual and the time of year.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the Sanfu period is regarded as a time when yang energy is relatively abundant.
Herbal acupoint patching during this period traditionally focuses on warming and supporting people with cold-sensitive or constitution-based patterns.
It may be considered for people with concerns such as:
The aim of summer treatment is to provide seasonal, constitution-based support and help prepare the body for changes in weather.
Winter treatment is traditionally offered during the colder part of the year, including around the winter solstice.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, this period may be particularly relevant for people whose symptoms tend to become more noticeable in cold weather.
Winter Herbal Acupoint Patching may be considered for people with:
The traditional focus is on supporting warmth and constitution during winter.
Summer and winter Herbal Acupoint Patching are not simply the same treatment repeated twice.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, they are offered at different points in the seasonal cycle and have slightly different areas of focus.
Summer treatment focuses on seasonal warming and constitution support.
Winter treatment provides further support during the colder months.
Together, they form part of a broader approach to seasonal Chinese medicine care.
Whether one or both courses are suitable depends on the individual. Your Chinese medicine practitioner will assess your presentation and explain whether Herbal Acupoint Patching may be appropriate for you.
Herbal Acupoint Patching is complementary care and does not replace medical assessment or treatment when this is required.
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