Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine isn’t about one single herb, it’s about a group of herbs all working together.
I frequently get asked about whatever herb is the latest and greatest media darling. And it’s made me realize that most people don’t really understand how Chinese Herbal Medicine works. But we’re going to change all of that today, okay?
Lesson 1: Not all acupuncturists are trained in Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine is usually taught in conjunction with training in acupuncture. But it is possible to become a licensed acupuncturist and have no herbal training. Make sure the person prescribing your herbs is trained to do so.
Lesson 2: It’s very rare for a Chinese Herbal Medical practitioner to prescribe a single herb.
Most prescriptions will contain between 6-12 herbs all working together. For example, say you come to me because you have a stiff neck. Only some of the herbs in your formula will be used to help with the stiff neck. There will also be a secondary category in there that are “guiding herbs” which means that they will send the treatment to the right spot, in this case the neck. And lastly there will be herbs put in there to balance out any potential side effects (such as stomach upset).
Lesson 3: Each formula is customized for the individual
In Chinese Herbal Medicine there are very few “one size fits all” cures. Which means that if you and your best friend both come to me for hot flashes there is a good chance you’ll go home with completely different prescriptions. This is because a Chinese Herbalist will figure out what is causing your issue, and solve that; instead of just giving you the herbal equivalent of a band-aid on your symptoms.
Lesson 4: Chinese Herbalists Have Extensive Training
On top of our 3-4 years of training in Acupuncture, A Chinese Herbalist will have an additional 600-800 hours of studies. These hours include clinical hours where we’re supervised in seeing patients and writing herbal prescriptions.
Lesson 5: Chinese Herbal Medicine is just that, medicine
When prescribed by a trained herbalist, Chinese Herbal Medicine is very safe and effective. That said, it’s still medicine. It’s important to work with someone who understands potential side effects and interaction.
Which brings me to my last point, if you want to try Chinese Herbs please pick someone who has trained in them and cares for you as the unique individual you are.
And if you want that someone to be me, please reach out. I can help you.