About Chinese Herbs
Chinese Herbal Medicine has a long history. Its origin has been documented as far back as 11th century BC. There were several books which formed the basic theory of Chinese medicine – The Book of Songs and Nei Jing. The earliest book on Chinese Herbal Medicine was Shen Nong Ben Cao Jeng, which was written between 221 BC and 220 AD. This original medical text documented 365 types of herbs. Today, there are over 500 individual Chinese herbs that are actively prescribed in the United States. Chinese herbal research in botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical medicine has been constantly expanding since the Chinese Cultural Revolution in 1949. In fact, some modern pharmaceuticals have been developed from Chinese herbs.
Traditional Chinese medicine, which includes both Chinese Herbal Medicine and acupuncture, is holistic and natural. It stimulates the body’s own healing abilities, and practitioners look at all aspects of patient’s life before making a diagnosis and prescribing formulas. While acupuncture is effective in treating a number of conditions, it is important to note that certain conditions are more effectively treated using a Chinese herbal formula in conjunction with acupuncture.
Chinese herbs can be used to treat both chronic and acute illnesses. Some formulas can fight viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. They can be formulated to remove toxins and/or strengthen the body’s natural healing ability. Chinese herbal formulas can restore balance to the body on a deep level. In some cases, these formulas can reduce the side effects or enhance the healing effects of pharmaceutical medications. (You should always consult with your doctor and your herbalist before changing or stopping medications you have been prescribed.)
Chinese Herbal Medicines are potent, and formulas are developed by focusing on the diagnosis of the underlying cause, rather than simply treating symptoms. The side effects of an herbal formula are less severe than those that can come from taking modern medicines. Chinese herbal medicine boosts immunity, balances hormones, and improves overall organ health.
Conditions effectively treated with Chinese Herbal Medicine include the following:
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Respiratory illness
- Colds/Flu
- Allergies
- Autoimmune illness
- Psoriasis/Eczema
- Inflammation
- Liver Dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Fertility Issues
- Chronic Pain
- Depression/Anxiety
- Sleep Disorders
- Menopausal Issues
- Cancer/Chemotherapy Recovery
Ideal candidates for Chinese Herbal Medicine are those who suffer fatigue, anxiety and/or depression, have more than one unexplained symptom, are not responding well to conventional medical treatment, are experiencing side effects from pharmaceuticals, or are having other symptoms that may seem unrelated. Since each patient’s lifestyle and experience is different, each formula is customized to his or her specific needs. This ensures that they receive targeted treatment according to their unique circumstances. While some herbalists prepare their remedies in house, Uptown Acupuncture uses an off-site pharmacy to fill prescriptions.
