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TAIPEI: Several strange and even bizarre alternative therapies are enjoying a revival in Taiwan.
Dr Hsieh Ching-long is one of only a few practitioners of a near-extinct Chinese folk treatment known as "fire therapy", which requires the doctor to set his patient on fire.
"Fire therapy restores the balance of energy and gets rid of toxins in the body," said Dr Hsieh.
The heat generated is also said to improve circulation and promote general well-being.
Dr Hsieh, who studied traditional medicine in mainland China, has developed four techniques to treat different ailments.
For instance, "fire cupping" improves blood circulation and reduces aches and pains. He said the blaze consumes the air in the cup, forming a vacuum, which creates a suction-like effect on the skin that stimulates blood circulation.
Fire therapy might look rather dangerous, but Dr Hsieh assured that the procedure is well under control.
He also said he takes special care when carrying out riskier treatments such as his "dragon fire" technique, which requires naked flames to come into direct contact with the patient's body.
"This technique uses heat to stimulate the nervous system, open pores and get rid of toxins," he said.
"Safety precautions must always be observed. I always turn off the light so that I can see the intensity and direction of the flames. I'm prepared if anything goes wrong," he added.
Each session of this high temperature treatment, which includes a body massage that lasts for about 40 minutes, costs more than US$20.
Although some experts in traditional Chinese medicine said fire therapy cannot cure illnesses, patients like Madam Lin believe otherwise.
She said the treatment saved her from pneumonia. "Initially, I was scared of the fire and I kept trembling. However, after the treatment, I felt much more relaxed. My chest felt more comfortable." - CNA/ac
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