Herbal Therapy
Herbal medicine is an integral part of Chinese Medicine and has been used in many countries worldwide for several thousand years. Like acupuncture, it is an art and science whose goal is to re-establish balance in the body. Herbal formulations are prescribed based not only on the pattern presentation of the disease (symptoms), but also on the person’s individual constitution. What this means is that the symptoms are treated as well as the root cause of the disease or imbalance.
Chinese herbs are safe and effective. With the appropriate diagnosis, a skillful selection of herbs is tailored to the specific needs of the individual patient and can produce a profound transformation in health with less danger of side effects inherent in drug-based medicine. In Chinese Medicine, herbs are rarely used individually as a single herb but are most often combined with other herbs to create a balanced formula in order to reduce any unwanted effects. Herbal formulas are therefore customized for each individual patient and can sometimes change from week to week as symptoms change and improve.
Where do I get my herbs?
Most of the herbs I use in my office come from American-based (and some Bay area local) companies that all have the highest standards in quality and purity. I mostly carry KPC powered herbs and Health Concerns herbal tablets. Herbal prescriptions can also be given to those who want to purchase the actual herbs to cook the tea themselves. Tinctures and other products can be special ordered. Neutrceutical companies, which are high quality nutritional supplements that may or may not contains herbs, are also recommended when appopriate. Products from Metagenics, Orthomolectular, Apex, and others are commonly precribed whether or not herbal medicine is given.
Can women take herbs if they are pregnant?
Yes! Chinese herbal formulas are indeed safe for pregnant women and can treat a variety of pregnancy related issues, including morning sickness, fatigue, acid reflux, or threatened miscarriage. In fact, herbal prescriptions can be used for fertlity and preparation for pregnancy, during pregnancy, and also in the post-pardum phase to balance and restore the mother or even to increase or decrease lactation.