A Time-Honored Approach to Healing

For thousands of years, humans have used food and plants as medicine. Over time, through careful observation and refinement, these traditional practices evolved into a sophisticated system of diagnosis and herbal prescription known today as Chinese Herbal Medicine.

This ancient healing tradition utilizes thousands of herbs, minerals, and select animal products to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing processes. Unlike many Western approaches that emphasize a single “miracle herb,” Chinese Herbal Medicine typically uses customized formulas made up of several herbs that work synergistically to address both symptoms and root causes.

Because herbs are powerful, it’s always best to consult with a licensed herbal practitioner rather than self-prescribing individual herbs.

Forms of Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal formulas can be taken in several different forms, each with its own benefits and considerations:

1. Raw Herbs (Decoctions)

Raw herbs are boiled to create a strong medicinal tea or decoction. This is often the most potent way to take Chinese herbs, but it can also carry some risks.

• Considerations:

  • Many raw herbs are imported, and testing for pesticides or heavy metals can be difficult without specialized equipment.

  • Some herbs on the market are mislabeled or the wrong species, making professional guidance essential.
    For safety and efficacy, raw herbs should only be used when sourced through trusted, verified suppliers.

2. Granules

Granules are made by boiling down raw herbs or formulas and then dehydrating them into a concentrated powder. The powder is then dissolved in warm water before taking.

• Benefits: Convenient, easy to prepare, and produced under strict quality control standards by many reputable suppliers.

• Potency: Less strong than raw decoctions, but highly effective for most patients.

3. Capsules

Granulated herbs can be encapsulated for easier swallowing, especially for formulas with a bitter taste.

• Benefits: Convenient and easy to take.

• Consideration: Taking herbs in capsule form limits the tasting and smelling of the herbs, which in Chinese Medicine plays a therapeutic role in how the body receives the medicine.

4. Tea Pills

Tea pills are small, round beads made from compressed herbs.

• Benefits: Easy to take, widely available.

• Consideration: This is generally considered the least potent form of herbal medicine. However, taking tea pills can still be beneficial when other forms aren’t accessible.

5. Patents and Topical Formulas

Herbal companies also create patented formulas in the form of liniments, patches, sprays, and mouthwashes. These are often used for targeted treatment of specific conditions such as pain, inflammation, or skin issues.

What Chinese Herbs Can Support

Chinese Herbal Medicine can help address a wide range of health concerns, including but not limited to:

• Immune system support and common colds

• Stress and anxiety

• Infertility and hormonal imbalance

• Menstrual pain and menopausal symptoms

• Insomnia and sleep disturbances

• High blood pressure and cardiovascular support

• Pain management (e.g., back pain, joint pain, body pain)

Chinese herbs work gently but effectively, addressing the root cause of imbalance while supporting the body’s ability to heal.

Safety and Precautions

While Chinese herbs come from nature, they are still considered medicinal substances and must be used with care. Always:

• Inform your practitioner of any food allergies, medications, or supplements you are taking.

• Consult your primary care provider before beginning any new herbal regimen.

• Work with a licensed herbalist or acupuncturist to ensure your formula is safe and appropriate for your needs.

Self-prescribing herbs can be ineffective or even harmful if the herb interacts with medications or is not suited to your body.