All About Herbs
Herbal Medicine is a main treatment method within Traditional Chinese Medicine and is an ancient art. Although Acupuncture was the first Chinese method of treatment to gain wide acceptance in the West, Chinese Herbal Medicine is now quickly establishing itself as one of the most popular and effective alternative therapies.
Chinese Herbal Medicine includes plants, minerals, and animal products. Over 7,000 herbs have been identified in China, 400 of which are most commonly used in variations in formulas. According to Chinese Medical Theory, each herb has a different taste, temperature and numerous specific functions. Depending on the condition and syndrome, the Chinese Medical practitioner will choose different properties of herbs to create a formula to address the patients particular needs. A practitioner who makes use of herbs is familiar with most of the 1,800 herbs in Chinese pharmacopeia. Is Chinese Herbal Medicine Safe? Yes, if your herbal formula was prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. One of the most appealing qualities of Chinese Herbal Medicine is the low risk of adverse reactions. Can I take Chinese Herbs before my surgery? Chinese Herbs can be taken to strengthen your immune system before surgery. However, it is recommended that you cease taking herbs five days before the surgery and resume once again after your surgery. It is best to consult with your practitioner prior to this. Can pregnant women take Chinese herbs? Yes, if Chinese herbs are prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. Please do not take any herbal products during pregnancy without consulting your practitioner, since without the proper knowledge, the incorrect use of herbs may lead to uterine bleeding, miscarriage or fetal death. What is the difference between Western folk herbalism and Chinese Herbal Medicine? Within Chinese herbal medicine, not everyone with the same disease is given the same herbs. Each individual's unique constitution and relationship to the environment is evaluated before an herbal prescription is devised. Chinese herbal medicine usually uses a formula which contains 4 to 16 different herbs designed to balance each effect and address the individual's symptoms as well as the root cause and therefore the entire pattern of disease. Western herbal medicine primarily uses a single herb or groups of herbs which treat symptoms only. Can I take Chinese Herbs if I am taking Western Drugs? Most often there will be no negative reaction if they are taken at the same time - preferably 1-2 hours apart. However, it is best to inform your Chinese Medicine practitioner of all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs that you are taking to make certain of any interactions they may have. |
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