Chinese medicine usually conjures up images of veteran practitioners feeling the pulse of patients who place their wrist on a small cushion.
Four young herbal healers are determined to defy a long-standing tradition and break into an industry dominated by 'old masters'.
At the forefront of the charge is Chu Man-hon, who will soon open his private practice in Yau Ma Tei with two of his peers. Having worked in a Chinese medicine shop in Tin Hau for five months, the 25-year-old is happy that he has found his true calling.
'The therapeutic efficacy of Chinese medicine has impressed me for a long time,' says Dr Chu. 'I often hear stories about people with terminal illnesses who have been cured by Chinese medicine.'
For young practitioners though, breaking into the profession is no easy feat.
'Many patients don't trust young practitioners since they think medical expertise grows with experience,' says Dr Chu.
