Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine is a traditional system of medicine that addresses illness and enhances health. It treats the full range of human disease such as acute illness–like flu and the common cold–to chronic disease, such as allergies, gynecological disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic viral diseases, and degenerative diseases due to aging. Herbal medicine can also be used preventatively, helping to maintain or create balance and health before disease sets in.
I use herbal medicines, sometimes in conjunction with acupuncture, whenever appropriate, to support your healing process. These medicines are usually prescribed as formulas (a mixture of several herbs) and are tailored to your specific condition. As your condition improves and changes, I may modify your formula to continue to support you towards recovery. Herbal formulas come in several different forms such as teas, tablets, capsules or granules that are mixed in hot water. I also offer some topical formulas and footsoaks that are wonderful to help with pain and increase blood circulation.
Medicinal Quality
Chinese medicine has accumulated abundant clinical experience regarding the use of medicinal substances over a long period of time, and superior quality medicinal varieties have emerged from this tradition. The medicinals I offer are tested for authenticity and potency, heavy metals, pesticide residues and microorganisms by independent laboratories before coming to us. Most are harvested from regions known for producing superior quality herbs under natural conditions in an eco-friendly environment, with particular attention to cultivation technique, harvesting and processing.
I only purchase herbal medicines from known, trusted sources, and do not recommend the purchase of herbal formulas through online sources, as there are reports of fake or inferior herbal products showing up on some of the bigger sites. This is not a one-size-fits-all kind of medicine, and quality really matters.
Interactions with Pharmaceutical Drugs
It is very important to let me know about any pharmaceuticals that you are currently taking. In most cases, taking Chinese herbs is not contraindicated for people who are also taking pharmaceutical drugs. There are some exceptions to this, however, so it is very important to only take herbs that have been prescribed by a licensed practitioner.