Chinese Herbal Medicine: The use of individually tailored formulas that the patient takes at home in between the acupuncture treatments to continue the healing process.
HOW ARE CHINESE HERBAL REMEDIES PRESCRIBED?
Chinese herbs are prescribed based on an individual’s Chinese Medical pattern which your practitioner determines based on the symptom complex with which you present. You will be prescribed herbs that treat both the presenting symptoms, as well as your underlying constitutional pattern.
WHAT ARE HERBAL PRESCRIPTIONS MADE UP OF?
The Chinese material medica consists of numerous types of natural substances, including bark, flowers, roots, leaves, twigs and stems. Occasionally herbal prescriptions may include minerals or materials from animals.
HOW ARE CHINESE HERBS TAKEN?
Traditionally, raw Chinese herbs were cooked by the patient into a tea that was ingested 2 to 3 times daily. This practice is still carried out today, but with our busy lifestyles this isn’t always feasible. Thus, many herbal formulas are available in pill form to ensure patient compliance. Similarly, herbs are also available in powdered extracts that can be dissolved into warm water.
DO CHINESE HERBS HAVE SIDE EFFECTS?
Very rarely. If you are prescribed the correct formula there should be no side effects. Most substances in the materia medica have a low toxicity, especially in comparison to Western Medications. The most common side-effect that patients experience is some mild changes in digestion, which usually go away as your body adapts to the herbs. If you ever do experience any discomfort while taking your Chinese herbs, be sure to inform your practitioner.
WHAT CAN CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE TREAT?
Chinese Herbal Medicine effectively treats a full range of diseases. Chinese Herbal Medicine can treat chronic, difficult to treat conditions, can be used to strengthen your constitutional weaknesses, and can treat specific ailments, whether acute or chronic. Some of the most commonly treated conditions include musculoskeletal injuries, chronic and acute pain, allergies, emotional issues, gynecological disorders, and degenerative diseases.
CAN PREGNANT WOMEN TAKE CHINESE HERBS?
Yes, herbs can safely be prescribed to pregnant women, and in fact, Chinese Herbal medicine can help with many conditions that pregnant women experience, including morning sickness, restless fetus, fatigue, and breech presentations.
CAN CHILDREN TAKE CHINESE HERBS?
Children respond very well to herbs and specially prepared pediatric herbal formulas are available in pill and liquid forms. Chinese Herbal Medicine can treat conditions including colic, teething, earache, cough, and diarrhea.
