WHAT IS CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE?
Chinese Herbal Medicine, together with acupuncture, comes from the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has a recorded history of more than 2000 years. Like other Chinese Medicine disciplines, Chinese herbal medicine is based on the principle that good health springs from maintaining a harmonious balance of energy, yin and yang, both inside and outside of the body. If this balance is lost, either within ourselves or in our environment, disease may develop.
WHAT PRODUCTS ARE USED?
Treatment with Chinese herbs involves the use of several hundred commonly used ingredients, including roots, stems, flowers, leaves and barks as well as other non-plant materials. Pre-prepared combinations of herbs in the form of pills, powder capsules and creams (for external use) are also used. Combinations of these herbs, often using formulae designed and used for over 2000 years, are matched to the individuals needs, based on the pattern of symptoms presented to the practitioner. My suppliers all adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice and are on the RCHM's approved supplier list which ensures that the ingredients used comply with UK laws and have been processed hygienically and safely. None of the products supplied contain endangered species and, currently, only plant materials are available for use in the UK.
ARE CHINESE HERBS SAFE?
Serious adverse effects are extremely rare when herbs are administered by a trained herbalist. However, certain herbs are not appropriate for everyone e.g. pregnant women, or are not suitable for long-term use. It is therefore essential when taking herbs that you are regularly monitored and that you tell the practitioner if you are taking any other forms of medication, including those prescribed by your GP.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
During the first consultation, you will be asked questions about your symptoms, health history and lifestyle. This will include looking at your tongue and taking your pulses at both wrists. A treatment plan will then be formulated and agreed with you, including lifestyle advice, if appropriate. The length of treatment required depends on each person, the symptoms or conditions suffered and any medication taken. Herbal treatment can also be combined with acupuncture. Generally speaking, some improvement should be felt after a few weeks of starting the Chinese Herbal Formulae. The consultations are usually every 2 4 weeks depending on the severity of the symptoms, the nature of the condition and the overall health of the patient.
