Herbal Medicine

The pharmacology of herbal medicine originates from ancient times and current evidence-based research have identified the numerous benefits of herbal medicine on the body such as Radix Ginseng and Tangerine Peel. Herbal medicine has been used to treat internal conditions as well as external conditions. Herbal medicine formulae are modified according to an individual's health condition and requirements and thus, the same formulae may not be ideal for another individual.

The Different Forms of Herbs

Herbal medicine may be prescribed in various forms including raw, concentrate (granule or powder form) or as pre-manufactured herbs.

Raw herbs: are cooked and prepared as a liquid (decoction) and consumed while warm.
Concentrate herbs: these are herbs that come in granule or powder form which are mixed with hot water to form a liquid and is consumed when it is warm.
Pre-manufactured herbs: these herbs come in tablet, pill, liquid or other forms prepared by the manufacturer.

Raw and concentrate herbal formulae can be adjusted and modified according to a specific health condition of an individual, however pre-manufactured herbal medicine cannot be modified. Furthermore, some of the granule herbs and pre-manufactured herbs may contain gluten or may not be certified gluten free.

What to Expect When Taking Herbal Medicine?

It is important to keep in mind that the taste of different herbal formulae can be unpalatable for some individuals, however this can be discussed with your Chinese medicine practitioner. Furthermore, it is important to let your Chinese medicine practitioner know about any allergies you may have or if you are on any medications.

What to Expect After Taking Herbal Medicine?

Some individuals may experience minor adverse events when taking herbal medicine such as loosening of bowel movements, mild bloating, mild nausea or a gag reflex which may occur if the herbs are bitter. The minor adverse events should subside after 2 to 3 days of taking the herbs, however if these symptoms do not subside it is important to stop taking the herbs and to inform your Chinese medicine practitioner immediately.

Dosage Instructions

It is important to follow your Chinese medicine practitioner's instructions on how to take your herbal medicine. Your herbal medicine should be taken 2 hours away from any medications or supplements that you may be taking. It is important to keep your herbal medicine away from children and kept in a cool and dry place.