East-Meets-West - Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic

East-meets-West healthcare

At Eu Yan Sang, we are committed to prioritising the total well-being of our patients above all else. Our physicians are not only experts in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), they also embrace an integrated approach to patient care. We believe combining the strengths of both western and Chinese medicine will lead to better treatment outcome for our patients.

Our unique East-meets-West approach is designed to address a wide range of health conditions, including fertility challenges, post-cancer recovery, post-stroke rehabilitation, and chronic illnesses. Our skilled TCM physicians collaborate with Western medicine practitioners to co-manage patient care, creating integrated treatment plans that combine the best of both worlds. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive, personalised care that supports the overall well-being and recovery of our patients.

East-Meets-West Co-Management Programme

Experience the best of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medical care through our Co-Management Programme. By working with Western doctors, we can provide comprehensive, holistic treatments for better recovery and long-term wellness.

Learn more

Western GP Partner

We partner with Parkway Shenton, one of Singapore’s largest networks of GP clinics, to offer a more holistic and integrated approach to healthcare. Through this partnership, patients can access a wide range of services, from health screenings and vaccinations to family medicine, complementing our Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments.

Our TCM physicians and Parkway Shenton’s GPs work closely together to create personalised, coordinated care plans tailored to each individual’s needs. Parkway Shenton clinics are also part of Healthier SG, a national initiative by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to make preventive care more accessible and affordable.

Experience holistic screening that combines insights from both a GP and TCM physician, exclusively offered at our co-located clinic at Guoco Tower.

> Integrated Health Screening Packages

> Find a Parkway Shenton Clinic

> Integrated Health Screening Packages

> Find a Parkway Shenton Clinic

Deals & Privileges

[App Members' Exclusive] Members' rates for Parkway Shenton Clinic Services

Together with Parkway Shenton, we offer holistic support for your well-being through timeless TCM therapies and modern medicine. As part of our partnership, our patients can enjoy the following privileges at Parkway Shenton Group Clinics:

Consultation	Fees (including GST)
GP consultation (First-time Patients of Parkway Shenton)	$10
GP consultation	$27.25
Dietetics consultation	From $127
Specialist consultation at Parkway East Paediatric Clinic	From $187
Specialist consultation at Parkway MediCentre	From $138
TeleConsult (on MyHealth360 app)	$21

Health Screening
Basic health screening	From $38
Executive health screening	From $556
Radiography and imaging at Parkway Radiology	From $51

Home Care
Home health screenings	From $207.10
Home Haj & Umrah vaccinations	From $333
Home nursing	From $114

Vaccinations
Flu vaccination	$28
HPV vaccination (Gardasil 9)	$256.50 per dose

Simply present your Dr Sinseh Mobile App member profile at any Parkway Shenton Clinics to enjoy the above privileges. Terms & Conditions apply.

Find a Parkway Shenton Clinic near you or send a Whatsapp message to the Parkway Shenton team for enquiries.

Not a Dr Sinseh App member yet? Download, sign up, and start enjoying a new level of integrated care today!

Bridging East & West: A Holistic Approach to Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a significant public health concern in Singapore. Often symptomless in its early stages, it can quietly cause damage until serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, or kidney disease arise.

In this installment of our “Bridging East & West” series, we take a closer look at hypertension from the perspectives of both Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). By understanding how each system approaches diagnosis and care, we uncover how an integrative, holistic strategy can help you better manage your blood pressure and support long-term heart health.

Subscribe to our Instagram or Facebook to get health tips on how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western medicine work together to promote holistic well-being.

Understanding Hypertension: What Western Medicine Tells Us

Hypertension is diagnosed when systolic (top) readings exceed 130 mmHg and/or diastolic (bottom) readings exceed 85 mmHg, according to Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines. Left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. Early detection and management are key to preventing these outcomes.

Blood Pressure Categories for Adults (18+)

Blood Pressure (BP) Level (mmHg)
Category	Systolic BP (mmHg)	Diastolic BP (mmHg)
High-Normal BP	130 - 139	85 - 89
Grade 1 Hypertension	140 - 159	90- 99
Grade 2 Hypertension & above	≥160	≥100

_{Note: Blood pressure targets may vary depending on age, risk factors, and medical history. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.}

_{Source: ACE Clinical Guidance (ACG) Hypertension Dec 2023, Healthhub}

TCM Insights: Reading Hypertension through the Body's Energy Flow

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hypertension is not viewed as a standalone condition but as a reflection of imbalances in the body’s ‘Qi’ (vital energy), Yin-Yang, and organ systems such as the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen. TCM diagnosis focuses on identifying these underlying patterns and tailoring treatment accordingly.

Common TCM patterns for Hypertension and its symptoms:

TCM patterns

Common Symptoms

Hyperactivity of Liver Yang (肝阳上亢证)

Commonly linked to stress & emotional tension.

- Dizziness

- Headaches

- Facial flushing

- Irritability

Accumulation of Phlegm & Dampness (痰湿中阻证)

Associated with poor digestion, sedentary habits, or a greasy diet.

- Heavy-headedness

- Mental fog

- Dull pressure in the head

Obstruction by Blood Stasis (瘀血内阻证)

Results from poor circulation or long-term Qi stagnation.

- Chest pain

- Palpitations

- Stubborn headaches

- Dark & purplish tongue

Deficiency of Kidney Yin (肾阴亏虚证)

Common in older adults or those with chronic fatigue, overwork, or insufficient rest.

- Forgetfulness

- Sore, weak lower back & knees

- Tinnitus

- Dry eyes, blurred vision

Treatment of Hypertension

Western Medical Approach:

Lifestyle modifications: Adopt a low-sodium diet (e.g. DASH diet-Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), exercise regularly, manage weight, and stress.
Pharmacotherapy with antihypertensive medications such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium-channel blockers, beta-blockers, or thiazide diuretics.
Routine monitoring: Regular doctor visits and self-tracking at home help monitor progress and ensure treatment effectiveness.

These methods help manage blood pressure effectively and reduce the risk of acute cardiovascular events.

Traditional Chinese Medical Approach:

TCM focuses on restoring internal harmony based on individual body patterns and the progression of the condition.

TCM diagnosis considers the progression of the disease, tailoring treatment based on dominant patterns observed.

Acupuncture:
Helps calm the nervous system, regulate Qi, and improve circulation. Common acupoints used include Taichong 太冲 (LR3), Quchi 曲池 (LI11), Zusanli 足三里 (ST36), and Fengchi 风池 (GB20).
Herbal therapy:
Several herbal formulas can be used to restore internal balance. Herbal formulas are prescribed based on the pattern exhibited by the individual. Hence, two different individuals suffering from hypertension could be prescribed two different herbal formulas. In TCM, this is known as 同病异治 (same illness, differentiated treatment).
Holistic care:
TCM may also prescribe dietary adjustments, gentle exercises (like Tai Chi), and lifestyle guidance tailored to each individual.

Lifestyle Tips for Hypertension Patients:

Manage Stress and Emotions:
Practice calming exercises like deep breathing, tai chi, or meditation to soothe the Liver and support healthy blood pressure.
Choose Light and Balanced:
Avoid greasy, salty, and spicy foods. Choose vegetables, whole grains, and potassium-rich foods like celery and bitter gourd.
Stay Active:
Engage in gentle exercises such as brisk walking or stretching to improve circulation and help regulate blood pressure.
Maintain a Balanced Routine:
Ensure adequate sleep (before 11 pm), regular meals, and work-life balance to support smooth Qi flow and nourish Liver and Kidney Yin.

Bridging Wisdom: Integrative Management of Hypertension

Why choose an integrative approach?

Western medicine provides fast and effective blood pressure control, reducing immediate risks with life-saving interventions.
TCM focuses on restoring balance, addressing underlying root causes, and enhancing long-term health and vitality.

Together, an integrated care plan can be developed to support long-term blood pressure control, enhance overall well-being, and potentially reduce dependence on medication.

Eu Yan Sang x Parkway Shenton Integrative Clinical Care Protocol for Hypertension

Our Co-Management Programme combines the diagnostic accuracy of Western GPs with the holistic insights of licensed TCM physicians.

Joint diagnosis and collaborative care planning
Reduced risk of drug-herb interactions
Personalised strategies that address stress, metabolic imbalances, and lifestyle factors
Potential to reduce medication dependency and improve overall quality of life

Explore Integrative Hypertension Care with Us

Our TCM physicians and Western doctors collaborate closely to provide safe, effective, and personalised treatment for hypertension. Let us help you find a balanced way forward.

Book a consultation* and discover how integrative care can support your heart health. _{*Available at Guoco Tower from 1 Aug 2025.}

Article reviewed by:

Dr. Lim Wee Peng, General Practitioner (GP) - Family Physician at Parkway Shenton Medical Clinic, Guoco Tower

Physician Chan Jing Wen - TCM Physician at Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic @ Guoco Tower

_Sources:

Bridging East & West: Holistic Diabetes Management

In the first installment of our “Bridging East & West” series, we’re diving into how to manage diabetes from both Eastern and Western medicine perspectives. It’s not just about treatments but finding a balance that gives you a full picture of how to manage diabetes.

Subscribe to our Instagram or Facebook to get health tips on how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western medicine work together to promote holistic well-being.

The rising incidence of diabetes mellitus is an issue of global concern. What exactly is diabetes, and how is it different in Western medicine versus TCM?

Understanding Diabetes in Western Medicine:

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder due to poor insulin production or insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes can cause complications in your body, such as nerve damage (neuropathy), eye disease (retinopathy), and reduced kidney function (nephropathy) and you may not know of the damage until you develop symptoms or screen for these complications.^[1]

Types	Description
Type 1 Diabetes	An autoimmune condition whereby the body's immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells of the pancreas, making it unable to produce insulin. Not caused by diet or lifestyle. Typically develops in children or early adulthood but can occur at any age.
Type 2 Diabetes	Most common form. Occurs when the body's cells do not respond well or are resistant to the body's own insulin. Often associated with overweight and excessive body fat. Develops in older adults, with increased risk above 40 years.

How does TCM view Diabetes?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) does not use the term “diabetes.” Instead, a group of symptoms characterised by excessive thirst, hunger, frequent urination, gradual weight loss, or sweet-tasting urine is referred to as “Xiao Ke” (消渴).

Diabetes falls within the scope of “Xiao Ke” (消渴) in TCM.

TCM identifies 3 primary factors contributing to "Xiao Ke" (消渴):

Congenital deficiencies (先天禀赋不足) lead to weak organ systems.
Dietary imbalances (饮食不节), especially overeating and a preference for specific foods, with obesity being a significant trigger.
Emotional disturbances (情志失调) cause damage to vital fluids (郁火伤津), with prolonged emotional imbalances as a contributing factor to the development and worsening of diabetes.

Treatment of Diabetes

Western Medical Approach:

Insulin:

Stomach enzymes disrupt insulin activity, so insulin needs to be injected or pumped into the blood.

Other Medications:

Individualised selection based on patients’ conditions, response to medications, and blood sugar control.
To stimulate pancreatic insulin production.
Prevent the liver from producing and releasing glucose into the blood.
Inhibit carbohydrate breakdown to slow absorption.
Increase tissue sensitivity to insulin.
Prevent kidneys from reabsorbing sugar into the blood.

Traditional Chinese Medical Approach:

Focuses on restoring the balance between ‘Yin’ and ‘Yang’ of the body:

TCM diagnosis considers the progression of the disease, tailoring treatment based on specific patterns observed.
Focuses on cleansing heat, moistening dryness, generating fluids and replenishing ‘Yin’.
Multiple organs including the lungs, spleen (stomach), and kidneys, are implicated.
Acupuncture is used to regulate the flow of ‘Qi’ along the lungs, spleen and kidney meridians, helps our organs maintain balance, and reduces dependence on external insulin.

^{TCM focuses on cleansing heat, moistening dryness, generating fluids and replenishing ‘Yin’.}

Chinese herbs can complement insulin treatment to reduce blood glucose, here are some herbal medications for common symptoms:

Abnormally Thirsty	Honeysuckle flower (金银花) Ophiopogon root (麦门冬)
Large Appetite yet Loses Weight	Gypsum (石膏) Anemarrhena rhizome (知母) Chinese foxglove root (生地黃)
Excessive Urination	Processed Chinese foxglove root (熟地黄) Cornelian cherries (山茱萸) Chinese magnolia berries (五味子)

Lifestyle Tips for Diabetic Patients:

Regular exercise and a healthy diet are important.
Closely monitor blood glucose and carbohydrate intake.
Avoid sugar, oil, caffeine and alcohol.
Diabetics heal poorly from wounds. Avoid injuries and keep limbs clean to prevent infection.
Maintain emotional balance to minimise disrupting the flow of Qi.

TCM Health Report	Early Detection Saves Lives
Get an analysis of your dominant body constitution and lifestyle tips to help improve it. Available in both English and Chinese at all general clinics.	Diabetes is a ‘silent’ disease in its early stages, individuals may feel completely healthy until complications arise. Detect and address potential health concerns early on to stay ahead in your wellness journey.

Eu Yan Sang TCM x Parkway Shenton GP

Explore our holistic diabetes management through our Co-Management Programme. By working with Western doctors, we can provide comprehensive, holistic treatments for better recovery and long-term wellness. Let our integrated expertise provide you with personalised solutions for diabetes management.

_{Source: [1] https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/diabetes-hub/types-of-diabetes}