Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine

With origins likely preceding that of acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine encompasses a wide array of plant, mineral, and even animal substances to create perhaps the largest herbal pharmacopeia in existence.  Over the centuries, many substances and compounds were observed to have strong effects on our bodies.  They were grouped and categorized according to these properties.  Using the same principles as found in acupuncture, a classical herbalist would combine various herbs together into synergistic formulas to bring balance and healing to the patient.

Modern Chinese Herbal Medicine

The traditional methods of herbal delivery were mostly in the form of teas or topical poultices.  Today we have concentrated extracts, pills, and capsules.  Regardless of the form, the complicated interplay between different compounds, especially when combined with Western drugs, necessitates long and dedicated study in order to achieve proper effects without causing potentially drastic side effects.  It is always recommended to consult a trained and licensed herbalist.

Differences between modern herbal medicine and pharmaceuticals

The thing many people don’t realize is most modern pharmaceuticals are originally derived from the same plants still used by herbal medicine practitioners. Now, instead of using the natural plant material, pharmaceutical companies have developed ways of synthesizing the chemical compounds to create something that resembles the original natural plant compounds. We believe there are major benefits to using the plants as they have subtle compounds that are in many cases impossible to replicate. When using the substances the earth provides, we are able to benefit from the entire spectrum of compounds in the material used in herbal medicine.