Chinese herbal medicine

Substances are used in Chinese herbal medicine

There are more than 450 substances commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine. Most Herbs are of plant origin though some animal and mineral substances may also be used. You may find some in your kitchen, such as ginger, garlic and cinnamon, while others such as chrysanthemum and peony flowers, are more likely to be found in your garden! Other plant substances with similar actions have replaced traditional Herbal remedies that were derived from endangered species. Some substances that were used traditionally are no longer part of modern professional Chinese herbal medicine practice, as sustainable and ethical practises are being more widely used.

In our practise most herbs are of plant origin and mineral substances.

Herbal Prescription Options

• Powder herbs

• Patient herbs

• Raw herbs

Cost varies depending on the herbal Prescription chosen, and each has its positive aspects: tailor-made, cost, taste, preparation/cooking time, convenience and storage.

Herbal Use

Chinese herbs are most often taken in formulae (combinations of herbs in raw or powered form) rather than singly. By combining herbs, synergies have been discovered that vastly increase the medicinal effects. Blending herbs in this way also allows the herbalist to neutralize unwanted side effects. Chinese herbs are now experiencing a rapid increase in usage and popularity, as Health-conscious consumers are concerned about the concentration of synthetic chemicals in western diets, medicines, and the general environment. Each individual receives herbal formulas that are very distinct (as no two people are treated the same), thus no two people get the same formula. You get a customized formula to treat your underlying condition relative to your constitution. When aspects of the condition change, so does your formula, thus keeping in tune with your needs every step of the way.

History Chinese herbal medicine is an ancient form of pharmacological medicine that has a history spanning over 5,000 years. It still forms a major part of healthcare provision in China, and is provided in state hospitals alongside western medicine. The fundamental idea of living in harmony with nature and the environment forms the basis for the use of Chinese herbs as well as the traditional Chinese approach to health. Chinese herbal medicine has developed as part of Chinese culture from tribal roots.

Many Native cultures all over the world have also traditionally used herbs to maintain health and treat illnesses, and many overlap with the same herbal remedies.

Chinese herbs are used in much the same fashion as in the past, utilizing a vast array of substances from plants, animals, and minerals to treat a variety of conditions. The systematic approach and clinical effectiveness of herbal remedies has for centuries had a very great influence on the theory and practice of medicine in the East and more recently has grown rapidly in popularity in the West.

Western medicine is finally beginning to acknowledge the effectiveness of many modern pharmaceuticals was originally demonstrated in Chinese herbal practice centuries ago. Herbs can act on the body as powerfully as pharmaceutical drugs and should be treated with the same caution and respect.

Directions

Herbs can be absorbed better when taken on an empty stomach. Allow at least a 30min to 1 hour after taking herbs before taking additional medicines. . Drink your herbs luke-warm or at room temperature as Cold liquids may be hard to digest. If you find the taste of your medicine disagreeable, hold your nose when you drink your herbs. This eliminates almost all the taste. After drinking your medicine, place 1/2 lemon juice in a glass of water to eliminate any aftertaste.