Eastern Medicine encompasses everything from acupuncture and herbal medicines to special massage techniques and dietary therapy. Most of it is derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM for short), is built on a foundation of 2,500–5,000 years of Chinese medical practice and encompasses The practice is based on the Taoist philosophy and notion that the body’s energy circulates through channels called meridians. TCM has become wildly popular in the United States, tripling in the last 20 years due to its success in offering an effective alternative to Western pharmaceuticals. Additionally, TCM is often covered by insurance. If you’re looking for an alternative or supplement to SHS, here are some notable places in Philly:


Six Fishes

Offering two locations in Philly, Six Fishes was founded in 1991 by Cara Frank, an expert in Chinese medicine. Their mission is "to promote health and healing for people in every phase of life,” according to their site, and they believe that “Chinese medicine is a practical modality to treat disease, alleviate suffering and promote wellness.” Their services include private and semi–private acupuncture treatments, Chinese herbs and consultation, cupping, gua sha, facial rejuvenation, moxibustion, homeopathy, nutritional counseling and massage therapy.

Location: 2308 Grays Ferry Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19146

750 South 15th Street

Philadelphia, PA 19146

Hours: 1 p.m.– 6 p.m. Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday

Price Range: $65–$150

Speciality/Don’t Miss: Clara Frank’s Acupuncture Treatment

Well–Point Oriental Medicine

Run by three certified practitioners (one of whom is running two clinical trials at Penn), Well–Point Oriental Medicine offers a traditional range of TCM, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, massage techniques and psychological services. Their treatments are recommended for all of those who are experiencing digestive, respiratory, neurological, skin and emotional problems. Their acupuncture appointments start out much like regular doctor’s visits, asking about health history and taking vitals. Well–Point promises to ensure a safe space and services.

Location: 2014 Fairmount Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19130

Hours: 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Mondays, 2 p.m.–7 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Saturdays

Price Range: Varies by Customer

Speciality/Ask For: Chinese Herbal Appointment with Adam

Philadelphia Mind Body Acupuncture

Founder Aaron Cashman holds a Master's of Traditional Chinese Medicine (MTCM) and is working on his Doctorate. Cashman specifically focuses on acupuncture, offering Five–Element Acupuncture, Trigger Point Acupuncture and Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture. Acupuncture is used to treat pain, stress, digestive issues and  women’s wellness. Services also include other TCM: cupping, herbal medicine, nutritional and lifestyle recommendations., etc. As a certified yoga instructor, Chasman also works yoga and Tai Qi in with the patient.

Location: 1740 South St, Suite 402, Phila, PA

Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturdays

Price Range: $40–$95 (student discount available)

Speciality/Ask for: Acupuncture appointment with Aaron

Long Life Chinese Herbs, Inc.

If the idea of hair–thin needles all over your body isn’t too convincing, this website and store in center city offers all types of Traditional Chinese Herbs. You can look up your symptoms online, see which herbs align with your disorders and order online. The website also offers all types of information on herbs and TCM. You can also pop in the store and ask the herbal pharmacists for a quick consultation on which herbs are best suited for your needs.

Location: 1011 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Mondays–Sundays

Price Range: $7–Unlimited

Speciality: All types of herbs