Frequently Asked Questions
What is TCM tongue diagnosis?
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the tongue's color, shape, coating, and the veins underneath it are read as signs of what's going on inside the body — things like digestion, circulation, sleep, and stress. A practitioner looks at your tongue alongside your symptoms to build a picture of your overall wellness pattern.
How does an online consultation work?
Pick a consultation package and pay through Stripe. Right after checkout, you'll fill out a short intake questionnaire and upload two tongue photos (the top surface and the underside). A TCM practitioner reviews everything and emails you a personal, plain-language write-up.
Is this a substitute for seeing a doctor?
No. TongueWell is a wellness and educational service, not a medical diagnosis. It's not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment — always consult a licensed physician for medical concerns.
What kind of tongue photos do I need to take?
Two photos: one of the top surface of your tongue, one of the underside. Take both in natural light, without filters or beauty mode, with your tongue relaxed and fully extended. The questionnaire page shows an example photo for each angle.
How long does it take to get my results?
Results are prepared and emailed individually by a practitioner rather than generated automatically, so turnaround depends on current volume. You'll receive your write-up at the contact email you provide in the questionnaire.
Can I update my questionnaire after I've submitted it?
Yes. Go to My Orders and open the questionnaire again — your previous answers and photos are pre-filled. You can change anything and save; photos are optional to re-upload, so leaving them blank keeps your current ones.
Is my photo and personal information kept private?
Yes. Tongue photos are stored in a private location accessible only to the practitioner reviewing your order, never a public link. We never see or store your card details — payments are processed directly by Stripe.
What's your refund policy?
If you haven't yet submitted your questionnaire, contact us and we'll issue a full refund. Once a questionnaire has been submitted and a practitioner has begun preparing your write-up, the order is final and non-refundable.