Chinese Herbal Medicine: A Holistic Approach to Health

Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, respiratory problems, and more.

The History of Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine has a rich history that dates back over 2000 years. The first recorded use of herbs in China can be traced back to the Shennong Bencao Jing, or The Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica, which was written in the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). This text contains descriptions of over 365 medicinal substances, including plants, animals, and minerals. Over time, Chinese herbal medicine evolved into a complex system of diagnosis and treatment, based on the principles of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.

The Place of Chinese Herbal Medicine in the World of Health

Today, Chinese herbal medicine is recognised as a valuable complementary therapy in the world of health. It is commonly used in conjunction with acupuncture, massage, and other traditional Chinese medicine techniques. Chinese herbal medicine has gained recognition in the Western world, with many studies showing its effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions.

Indications

Chinese herbal medicine can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain
• Digestive issues
• Hormonal imbalances
• Respiratory problems
• And more

At our clinic, we specialise in developing personalised herbal formulas that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and health concerns. Our formulas are designed to help restore balance and harmony to the body, and to address the underlying causes of disease.

Steps

Our experienced practitioners will work with you to develop a customised treatment plan that may include a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary changes. The following steps are involved in our herbal medicine treatment:

1. Thorough evaluation of health history and symptoms: We will start by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of your health history and symptoms to determine the underlying causes of your condition.

2. Personalised herbal formula: Based on the results of your evaluation, we will create a personalised herbal formula that is tailored to your unique needs. Our herbal formulas are made up of a combination of herbs, each with specific healing properties.

3. Detailed instructions on how to prepare and take herbal medicine: We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare and take your herbal medicine. Our herbal formulas are available in various forms, including teas, powders, and capsules.

Contraindications

While Chinese herbal medicine is generally safe and effective, there are some contraindications to consider. Certain herbs may interact with medications or have adverse effects on certain medical conditions. It is important to inform your practitioner about any medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have before starting herbal treatment.

Side Effects

Some patients may experience mild side effects when taking Chinese herbal medicine, such as loose bowel movements, mild digestive discomfort, or mild allergic reactions. These side effects are typically mild and temporary, and usually subside within a few days. In the event of more severe side effects such as severe allergic reactions, it is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately. We always advise our patients to inform us of any side effects they may experience, so that we can adjust the herbal formula as needed.

Frequently asked questions 

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chinese herbal medicine:

Q: Is Chinese herbal medicine safe?

A: Chinese herbal medicine is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. However, it is important to inform your practitioner about any medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have before starting herbal treatment.

Q: How long does it take for Chinese herbal medicine to work?

A: The length of time it takes for Chinese herbal medicine to work varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Some patients may experience relief after the first few doses, while others may need to take the herbs for several weeks or months before noticing significant improvement.

Q: What forms do Chinese herbal medicines come in?

A: Chinese herbal medicines are available in various forms, including teas, powders, capsules, and tinctures. At our clinic, we primarily use granule herbal medicine made in Taiwan, which is safe and easy to take.

Q: Can I take Chinese herbal medicine if I am already taking prescription medications?

A: While Chinese herbal medicine is generally safe and effective, it’s important for patients to inform their healthcare providers about any herbal treatments they may be using, especially if they are taking prescription medications. We encourage our patients to let their medical doctor know about their Chinese herbal medicine treatment and to discuss with them whether it is a suitable form of treatment for their specific condition. We work closely with our patients’ healthcare providers to ensure that our treatments complement and support any other medical interventions that may be needed.

Conclusion

Chinese herbal medicine is a valuable complementary therapy that can help to restore balance and harmony to the body. At our clinic, we are committed to providing you with personalised care that is tailored to your unique needs and health concerns. Our experienced practitioners will work with you to develop a treatment plan that includes a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary changes. If you’re interested in learning more about how Chinese herbal medicine can help you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.