BY JOY FANG

OUTWARD signs of ageing are typically an indication of some imbalance within the body.

For instance, wrinkles, black spots or hair loss might be due to weakness in one's organs, such as kidney or liver deficiencies, a weak digestive system, or blood stagnation problems.

Excessive fats, on the other hand, might be due to an accumulation of phlegm in the body.

"Treating these root issues with Chinese herbs, coupled with acupuncture and acupressure, can help to slow down the process of ageing," said Ms Duan Qian Mei, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physician and acupuncturist at Eu Yan Sang Specialist TCM Centre.

The 42-year-old, who has over 18 years of experience in the field, says that 70 per cent of those who visit her for ageing problems are female.

TCM methods, she said, are a great remedy for such problems because they are safe, and definite results can be seen with consistent treatment and an accurate initial diagnosis.

For instance, patients who see her for weight problems generally can see a drop of up to 4kg in four weeks. However, she warned that the amount of weight lost depends on the patient's willingness to cooperate on treatment and his or her body constitution.

my paper enlists Ms Duan's help with readers' questions.