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Treatment with Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Prescriptions: Holistic, Inexpensive, Effective, and Individually-Tailored
Chinese Herbal Medicine is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which also includes Acupuncture, and dates back at least 1800 years. As with acupuncture, Chinese herbal prescriptions work best when the holistic and individual needs of the patient are considered. This is called pattern differentiation in Chinese medicine, and nowhere as essential is this skill than in the clinical practice of herbalism.
Well-Trained Herbalists Only
For example: you have stomach pain that is chronic and so does your friend. Your friend’s, however, is due to stomach yin deficiency giving rise to empty fire (somewhat like an early stage ulcer) and she needs moistening and nourishing herbs, combined with some bitter cooling herbs. Your stomach pain, however, is due to spleen qi deficiency with dampness and an overactive liver. You need warming and vitalizing herbs, combined with herbs to dredge the liver and circulate the qi. Both of you have the same symptom – stomach pain – but the treatment is radically different. In fact, if the treatments were reversed, and you give your friend’s herbs, not only would it not help, but it could likely exacerbate your symptoms! This is why we need to seek out a well-trained herbalist, and especially not to rely on self-diagnosis and treatment.
Good Herbalists Are Almost Always Licensed Acupuncturists
Because of the depth and scope of Chinese herbal medicine, it is important to seek out a competent and fully trained herbalist. In the United States today these people are almost always Licensed Acupuncturists. However, it should be noted that not all acupuncturists are as well trained in Chinese herbal medicine as others. When seeking out an herbalist, look for one with his or her own pharmacy, or access to one, with which to formulate individualized prescriptions. Pre-made formulations work great for many conditions, but traditionally the medicine was also individualized. The flexibility that this training gives an herbalist greatly increases his or her ability to help facilitate healing in the patient.
Learn More
For more information about Chinese herbal medicine, see: Why Chinese Herbal Medicine, and What to expect from a Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription, or come visit me at my clinic.
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Chinese Herbal Medicine Treatment
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