About Chinese Herbal Medicine

How do you determine which herbs I need?

My diagnostic process relies heavily on the tongue and pulse, which is why I generally do not prescribe herbs for patients I haven’t met with in person. We’ll also do a full health history to discuss all the symptoms you’re experiencing, as well as assessing your general constitution.

Are herbs safe?

Any chemical you introduce to your system can cause a reaction, so it’s important that we use products that are high quality and authentic. The herbal products I recommend are all third party tested to ensure they are free of contaminants and heavy metals, and the botanicals are sourced carefully and knowledgeably. The distributors I use are ethical and transparent. I never endorse purchasing herbal products or supplements through Amazon, which has a known high rate of counterfeit products.

What if I’m taking medications?

I only prescribe Chinese herbal formulas after doing a full health history which includes discussing any medications or treatments you’re undergoing. Some herbs should not be combined with certain medications, so it’s very important we have this conversation before you start an herbal medicine plan.

Do you ever use Western herbs?

Western herbal medicine and Western supplements do not require a Chinese medical diagnosis and usually do not address these patterns directly. I sometimes recommend Western products for symptomatic relief or general wellness (e.g. probiotics or vitamins), in which case I will not need a tongue and pulse diagnosis.

Do the herbs taste bad?

Chinese herbal medicine is available in many forms, including raw herbs that can be boiled into a tea; granulated herbs that are mixed with water; tablets; tinctures; and topical liniments, poultices, or soaks. I generally prefer tablets or tinctures to avoid unpleasant flavors and ensure compliance.

How long do I need to take the herbs?

This will vary depending on what we are treating. Plan on at least two weeks and up to several months, depending on the complexity and severity of your symptoms.

Are there side effects?

“Side effects” are just effects other than what was originally intended. In Chinese medicine, all effects are part of the healing process and can (and should!) be moderated with formula adjustments as necessary. For example, sometimes purging through sweating or opening the bowels may be therapeutically beneficial. If this becomes excessive, we modify the formula.

How much do herbs cost?

Costs vary but generally plan on $50-100 per month for an herbal formula, and additional costs if adding in supplements as well. Once we have an herbal prescription you should plan on coming back into the office every 2-4 weeks to assess your progress and make modifications.