Today, there are over 500 substances commonly used in Chinese Herbal Medicine - the majority of these are of plant origin; though certain substances derived from animals and minerals are also used.

You may find some of these in your own kitchen – some substances used in Chinese medicine include common ingredients such as ginger, garlic and cinnamon, while others, such as chrysanthemum, peppermint and peony flowers, are likely found in your own garden! You may already know some common herbs such as liquorice, ginseng, dang gui, wolfberry, apricot kernel and Chinese dates, but the majority of the substances used, such as chai hu (bupleurum), di huang (rehmannia), huang qi (astragalus), etc. will most likely be unfamiliar to you.

Some substances that were traditionally used as a part of Chinese herbal medicine are no longer used today as part of today’s modern, professional practices. These include traditional remedies that are derived from endangered species, which have now been replaced by other substances with similar benefits. All herbs used in Chinese medicine are 100% natural and chemical free.

Chinese herbal medicine is part of a larger healing system called Traditional Chinese Medicine. Herbs are prescribed to restore balance to the opposing forces of energy, Yin and Yang. Disorders that may be treated include digestive problems, eczema and psoraisis, fatigue, gynaecological disorders and stress.

Chinese herbal medicine is a major aspect of traditional Chinese medicine, which focuses on restoring a balance of energy, body, and spirit to maintain health rather than treating a particular disease or medical condition.

More than 90% of CHM are of plant-derived, the reminder comprised of small amount of minerals, and in some cases, animal or marine extracts.