Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine was developed as a mixture of fundamental concepts derived from philosophy/empirical observation, and many centuries of trial and error from various practitioners. There are some modifications to the ancient formulas in our present day patent medicine. The modifications are an outcome of changes in our modern body constitution from variations in the environment and diet. However, the basic concept of nourishing and/or clearing associated channels/meridians to balance the body’s Yin and Yang energy remains unchanged.
how chinese herbal medicine can help
About Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the use of natural herbs - such as roots, leaves, seeds, and flowers - to restore balance within the body and treat a wide range of health conditions. Herbal formulae are typically customized to an individual's specific symptoms and underlying patterns of disharmony, based on principles like Yin and Yang and the five elements. Unlike Western medicine, which often targets isolated symptoms, Chinese herbal medicine aims to address the root cause of illness and promote overall well-being. It is commonly used to support digestion, boost immunity, reduce stress, and manage chronic conditions.
FAQS ABOUT CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
What you can expect as a patient
In our clinic, we use herbal formulae in conjunction with acupuncture to treat different illnesses. The herbal formulae are given to patients based on their individual body type and their pulse and tongue diagnosis. Treatments are formulated based on the unique conditions and needs of the patients. Therefore, two patients complaining of the same illness, for example, insomnia, could be given completely different acupuncture treatments and herbal formulae. The herbal formulae are made by patented herbal companies, and are composed from combinations of various individual herbs.
What is the difference between taking raw herbs as compared to patent herbal formulae?
Patent herbal formulae are pre-made, standardized herbal combinations available in tablets, pills, capsules, etc. They are based on classical or modified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescriptions. Patent herbal formulae are already made, require no preparation, and usually have a higher patient compliance rate as compared to raw herbs. Patent herbal formulae are usually more affordable than customized raw herbs. Raw herbs require longer preparation time, but can be more potent than patent herbal formulae. It can be more customized based on each patient’s constitution and needs. However, patients will need to know how to prepare and cook the raw herbs correctly to get the best benefit. A lot of patients also complain about the taste and smell of the raw herbs.
Do you usually use acupuncture and herbal treatment in conjunction?
For most of our patients, we would recommend herbal medicine along with acupuncture. The herbal formulae will work in synergy with the acupuncture treatment to reach the desired effect at a faster rate.
How are herbs different from pharmaceutical drugs?
Most pharmaceutical drugs are synthesized chemicals engineered to target very specific biological processes in the body. They often focus on isolating one active compound from a plant, which can be hard for the body to process, and in turn lead to unwanted side effects. On the other hand, herbal preparations/patent medicine are made with fresh/dried plants from the whole plant and contain hundreds to thousands of interrelated and active compounds known as phytochemicals. The effectiveness of the herbs are related to the synergy of the plant’s many constituents. Also, many of the secondary constituents of the plants will help to diminish any side effects from the main/active constituents of the plant.
