About Herbal Medicine

Throughout human history herbal medicine has served as a primary form of medical care. Herbal medicine is a highly powerful method used to treat specific pathological conditions. Each individual herb has different properties (hot, cold, sweet, bitter, sour etc) and enters into different channels or meridians. A herbal formula is usually composed of 6-14 herbs which work together. For example a formula for a chronic dry cough will contain herbs which will act on to stop the cough as well as strengthen and moisten the lungs.

Herbal formulas are prescribed according th the individuals Chinese medical diagnosis for each patient. Very often the formula changes over the course of treatment as symptoms and conditions change. The herbs can be used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment or alone. The herbs come in different forms and can be taken as pills, capsules, powders or teas.