Chinese Herbal Medicine

About Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine is an internal and external medicine that can be used as a stand-alone therapy or to complement and enhance acupuncture treatments. Chinese Herbal Medicine dates back about 3000 years. We use the highest quality herbs that are taken as a tea or as capsules. Additionally, plasters and poultices can be applied externally for traumas and physical aches and pains. Herbal formulas are customized to the individual patient to address constitutional weakness and the individual's symptoms. Herbal teas may contain plants, minerals or animal products.

Chinese herbal medicine states that chronic problems are a result of a constitutional weakness. The focus of this therapy is to resolve the root problem and does not focus only on the symptom itself. It is for this reason that Chinese herbal medicine is so effective.

Side Effects

Side effects for Chinese herbal medicine are minimal for various reasons:

Formulas are classically derived, proven and tested over thousands of years
The whole part of a plant is used not just an extract
Many herbs are used together in a formula to enhance or deter characteristics of herbs
Small dosages of individual herbs are used, not large dosages of individual herbs

If you are using medication prescribed by physician or bought over-the-counter, it is essential to inform your practitioner. Although side effects from drug / herb interaction are minimal, it is essential that the patient state all medication, herbal supplements and vitamins taken on a daily basis.

About Herbal Formulas

When Chinese herbal Medicine is recommended to you, the herbs are given as a formula in the form of a tea or capsules and are rarely prescribed as single herbs. The formula is balanced, which means the practitioner includes herbs to enhance or deter the qualities of the herbs in the formula. The formulas created by the practitioner have been proven over thousands of years. They have few side effects and are extremely effective at treating the symptoms indicated for a specific condition.

Formulas are either prescribed for 1-2 weeks. The formula is adjusted from week-to-week as the person's condition changes. Another reason the formula is changed often is so the body does not become accustomed to the herbs over time.

Quality and Safety

The herbal products sold at our clinic are of superior quality. We have carefully selected herbs that conform to our stringent standards and the standards of the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) for safety. Formulas are written for your specific conditon(s) and are carefully balanced so you will not experience any side effects. In fact, side effects are unusual. However, as with any medication, any unusual symptoms should be reported immediately to your herbalist.