Herbal Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine includes herbal remedies
in conjunction with acupuncture to provide treatment solutions for patients.
 An herb might be a plant, animal or mineral, and is
prepared in such a way that the body can easily absorb
and process it.
In traditional terms, the purpose of the herb is to
regulate the balance of blood, chi, and fluids via the
organ network. The five evils are expelled, including
cold, wind, heat, damp and dryness. In addition the
five emotions are balanced with herbal formulations
including anger, joy, pensiveness, fear and sadness.
A Chinese herbalist tailors the prescription to suit
the individual and his/her diagnosis. The prescription
may include a few herbs or a combination of a multiplicity
of herbs. There are literally thousands of herbs in
use, used in combinations for hundreds of diseases and
illnesses.
The five temperature characteristics of herbs are:
cold, hot, warm, cool and neutral. The five taste characteristics
are: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter and salt. The taste
and temperature combine to create the herbal property
effective to re-establish the harmony and homeostasis
of the body.
Herbs may be prepared as decoctions, pills, powder,
aromatics, food and wines. All conditions may benefit
from herbal formulations incorporated with various treatment
modalities.
Counter indications for the utilization of herbs include:
• allergies
• multiple prescription drugs
• conflict with western medicine treatments
Chinese herbs may be used for the majority of illnesses
and conditions. However, supervision is necessary; as
symptoms and treatments change new formulations may
be necessary to be prescribed.
The study of herbals is incorporated into the five-year
acupuncture study program. It involves the integration
of ancient Chinese theory with modern formulations and
technology.
See our Products Page for information and research
on numerous formulas.
Your acupuncturist can provide a personalized prescription
for your treatment.
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