The Face Tells All: An Introduction to Facial Anamnesis in Naturopathy
Every day we look at our face in the mirror. But we rarely ask ourselves what it is trying to tell us.
In the naturopathy and natural medicine, the face is one mirror of the internal organs and energy state of the person. Changes in color, fine lines, tension, lines, swelling: everything can be read by an expert eye.
In my studio of natural medicine in Lugano, thefacial anamnesis is the starting point for every personalized path. It is not a medical diagnosis, but a functional and constitutional reading. It is a way to listen to the body before you even talk to the symptom.
What is facial anamnesis and where does it come from?
THE'facial anamnesis It is an observational technique used in traditional medicine (Chinese, Ayurvedic, anthroposophic) and in European naturopathy, which consists in reading the signals that the face expresses in real time.
The following are observed:
- Skin color
- More highlighted or opaque areas
- Presence of swelling, tension, dark circles
- Fine lines or early wrinkles
- Visible microcapillaries
- Localized pimples, dryness, red spots
Objective: individuate which organs are working too hard, which are weakened or under load, and understand Which treatment can best support the person.
What is facial anamnesis for in natural medicine in Lugano
In my approach, facial anamnesis is a precious compass. Not only does it allow me to orient myself, but it guides the entire subsequent path.
The anamnesis is used to:
- Understanding the person's terrain
- Evaluate where you need to lighten up
- Choose herbal medicine, salts, Bach flowers and manual treatments with greater precision
- Monitor changes over time
It is a reading tool, not a labeling tool. Every face changes every week. Every face tells a different story.
Facial Areas and Related Organs: Practical Examples

Face area | Related organ/system | Typical signs |
---|---|---|
High forehead | Small intestine | Pimples, dehydration |
Between the eyebrows | Liver | Vertical line, tension, redness |
Temples | Bladder, hormones | Acne, swelling |
Dark circles under the eyes | Kidneys | Chronic fatigue, water retention |
Cheeks | Lungs / large intestine | Redness, rosacea |
Nose | Heart / stomach | Redness tip → pressure, pimples → digestion |
Perioral area | Ovaries / intestine | Pimples cycle, dehydration |
Chin rest | Hormones and the Large Intestine | Hormonal acne, roughness |
Not diagnosis is made, but it is observed a trend, a signal. We work for restore harmony, not to classify problems.
Why Facial History Is Different From a Medical Examination
In the world of conventional medicine, one looks for disease.
In the world of natural medicine, we are looking for the land.
Facial history tells you if:
- There is liver overload
- The kidneys are tired
- The intestine is in dysbiosis
- The lymphatic system is slow
- Emotions are not expressed
And it allows you to choose gentle, targeted treatments, before a chronic disorder occurs.
How a facial anamnesis session is carried out in Lugano

In my office in Lugano, the facial anamnesis is integrated into the first naturopathic meeting.
Steps:
- In-depth interview (history, habits, emotions)
- Observation of the face under neutral light
- Check key areas (eyes, temples, cheeks, mouth)
- Any comparison photos after a few weeks
- Creating your custom plan
No technological tools are needed. Just attention, experience, time.
What changes in treatment after a good facial anamnesis


Without medical history:
“Are you bloated? Take fennel.”
With anamnesis:
“You have swelling in the upper part of the face, dark circles, a dull face: let's drain the kidneys and work on the retained emotions.”
The treatment changes completely.
And it may include:
- Draining phytotherapy (e.g. birch, goldenrod)
- Clay compresses on the lumbar area
- Renal reflexology
- Bach Flowers for Fear or Control
- More hydrating diet
The result? More lasting, deeper, less “forced” change.
Examples of common cases observed through the face
Michela, 41 years old
- Dull skin, dark circles, pimples between the eyebrows
- After 4 weeks with:
- Liver phytotherapy
- Lymphatic massage
- Bach Flowers
- → “My skin has changed, but also my way of reacting to things.”
Luca, 36 years old
- Gray skin, jaw tension, perioral acne
- Intervention:
- Reflexology + Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- Gut and hormonal support
- → “I feel more clear and present.”
Why facial anamnesis is also a tool for awareness

When I show you the areas where your body “talks,” something happens.
Not only do you understand why you are experiencing that symptom, but you begin to recognize you on your path.
This is the first step towards the true healing.
Where to get a facial history in Lugano
At the studio of Chandra Olivieri, recognized therapist in natural medicine, in:
- Cantonal Street 19 – Lugano
- Via Sottobisio 5 – Balerna
Consultations include:
- Complete anamnesis
- Face reading
- Personalized treatments (reflexology, phytotherapy, salts, compresses)
- Monitoring and support
The performances are recognized by supplementary insurance (RCC J871463).
Want to find out what your face says about your health?
Facial history doesn’t tell you “what’s wrong with you.”
He tells you where your body needs attention, before the disease appears.
Book now an initial natural medicine consultation
Your face speaks. Maybe it's time to really listen to it.