about chinese herbal medicine

A Chinese medicine practitioner first conducts an assessment to determine the appropriate Chinese herbs for an individual. This includes taking the pulse, reading the tongue and asking numerous questions to determine the exact formula needed. In some cases, a custom formula is necessary which may require that the herbs be taken as a concentrated tincture or decoction to allow for variations in a classical formula. The practitioner may need to adjust or completely change a formula over the course of treatment, other times the formula remains the same for numerous months. It really depends on the person in terms of their prevailing constitution and results taking the herbs when decided to continue a current formula.

Of the thousands of individual Chinese herbs that exist, approximately 300 are commonly used today. Chinese herbs have been traditionally classified into one of many categories according to their specific effect on the body. For example, an herb that helps to strengthen and clear the lungs would be in the "relieve cough and asthma". And an herb that strengthens Blood to counteract fatigue and coldness would be in the "tonify blood" category. Herbs in this category are often chosen to balance the menstrual cycle or to increase fertility. Or an herb that detoxifies and clears heat from the body would be in the "clear heat and toxin" category – meaning antioxidant action to diminish free radical damage coming from environmental factors.

A Chinese medicine practitioner systematically studies the herbs individually as they are found in the Chinese herb material medica. And then learns how they are combined in the form of what is termed classical formulas. There are approximately 45 colleges in the United States that offer 3-4 year training programs in Chinese herbal medicine. National certification in Chinese herbal medicine is available and licensing is available in many states. New Jersey includes Chinese herbal medicine as a specialty that they license dependent on an acupuncturists qualifications.

There is much to be learned and understood about the quality of each herb and how they work together in combination prior to even considering recommending a formula for someone. The physical and energetic predisposition of an individual along with their medical history and presenting symptoms and signs must be carefully assessed when determining the appropriate Chinese herbal formula. Furthermore, possible side-effects or drug interactions must also be evaluated. An individual must also consult their physician prior to embarking on a Chinese herbal protocol.

Once a formula is determined and the herbs are ordered – the next step is to incorporate them into one’s daily regimen. Chinese herbs are normally taken daily, although sometimes it is indicated to discontinue one day per week to give the body a rest.  Generally they are taken two times a day approximately 10 minutes before the morning and evening meal. However, if digestive weakness exists it is best to take them after a meal. For an acute condition, a formula is taken anywhere from 1-30 days, whereas more chronic problems 6-12 months may be necessary to gain desired outcome. Although, sometimes it is necessary to take herbs for an extended period of time – it all depends on the individual and appropriate course of treatment to maintain their health.