Herbs FAQs

Herbal Medicine is an ancient art and a major treatment modality within Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although Acupuncture was the first Chinese method of treatment to gain wide acceptance in the West, Chinese Herbal Medicine is now quickly establishing itself as one of the most popular and effective alternative therapies.

Chinese Herbal Medicine includes plants, minerals, and animal products. Over 7,000 herbs have been identified in China, 400 of which are most commonly used in variations in formulas. According to Chinese Medical Theory, each herb has a different taste, temperature and numerous specific functions. Depending on the condition and syndrome, the Chinese Medical practitioner will choose different properties of herbs to create a formula to address the patient’s particular needs.

Is Chinese Herbal Medicine Safe?

Yes, if your herbal formula was prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. One of the most appealing qualities of Chinese Herbal Medicine is the low risk of adverse reactions.

Can I Take Chinese Herbs Before My Surgery?

Chinese Herbs can be taken to strengthen your immune system before surgery. However, it is recommended that you cease taking herbs 14 days before the surgery and resume no sooner than seven days after your surgery. It is best to consult with your practitioner prior to this.

Can Pregnant Women Take Chinese Herbs?

Yes, if Chinese herbs are prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. Please do not take any herbal products during pregnancy without consulting your practitioner. The incorrect use of herbs may lead to uterine bleeding, miscarriage or fetal death.

What is the Difference Between Western Herbalism and Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Within Chinese herbal medicine, not everyone with the same disease is given the same herbs. Each individual's unique constitution and relationship to the environment is evaluated before an herbal prescription is devised. Chinese herbal medicine usually uses a formula which contains 4 to 20 different herbs designed to balance each effect and address the individual's symptoms as well as the root cause and therefore the entire pattern of disease. Western herbal medicine primarily uses a single herb or groups of herbs which treat symptoms only.

Can I Take Chinese Herbs if I am Taking Western Drugs?

It depends. With most western drugs, there will most often be no negative reaction if they are taken one to two hours apart. However, there are some medications that either impact absorption of herbs OR whose absorption is affected by herbs. As such, it is best to inform your Chinese Medicine practitioner of all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs that you are taking to avoid adverse interactions. We can work with your doctor to determine appropriate dosages and we can provide pharmaceutical information to him/her.