General Assumptions About Herbs
When people realize that I do Chinese herbs, they usually have interesting responses. I have been asked "what herb should I take to get rid of my tumor' or what herb should I get for my stomach ulcer. They seriously think that I could just give them names of herbs to get rid of their problem. They are a bit disappointed when I tell them that it does not work that way. The Fact is that Chinese herbs are Medicinal that incorporates a whole medical system. Although the Market tends to select a particular herb and make a celebrity of it, it is solely done for profit gains.

The Science of Herbs
It is the norm to consult a qualified doctor and than take medications prescribed according to the diagnosis. The same norm must be applied when taking herbs. Chinese Herbology, is a science that requires years of study, clinical training and practice. Herbs are natural gifts from nature, but each aspect of nature has a science to be observed, learned and applied. Ancient Chinese doctors perfected the art of this science and developed a dynamic medical model that has lived on for the past few thousand years.

Herbs Must be Prescribed
Chinese herbs are prescribed by a qualified TCM practitioner only after a through examination of a patient. From this examination, the practitioner establishes a "pattern of disharmony" based on signs and symptoms. This diagnosis takes into account not only physical symptoms, but emotional factors as well as the individual’s bodily constitution.

The Property of Herbs
Each herbal Medicinal has a unique property such as taste, temperature and the ability to affect particular Meridians (energetic pathways) and Organ systems. According to these properties, and combination with other herbs, they perform specific functions to correct, or regulate the dysfunction or disharmony in the body. Taking self prescribed herbs or taking simple recommendation from just anyone other than a qualified TCM practitioner can be harmful. As it is harmful to take self prescribed Western Medications.

Herbs According to A Pattern of Disharmony
A "pattern of disharmony" is a much more detailed and descriptive diagnosis than a simple disease label. For example, two patients seeking out herbal treatment for an asthmatic condition may be given two completely different herbal formulas. One patient may have asthma attacks that are triggered by stress and emotional upsets the other may have attacks triggered strictly by environmental or physical factors. One of these patients may be frail and petite with weak and deficient wheezing where as the other may be strong and energetic with harsh, intense fits of wheezing. Both these patients will be prescribed different Chinese herbal formulas that are custom written to treat their individual pattern.

Specifics about Herbal Formulas
Chinese herbal formulas are typically made up of anywhere between six and eighteen herbs. In complicated case, the number of herbs in a formula may be much higher. The majority of these herbs are from plant sources including leaves, flowers, stems and roots, although some animal and mineral products are also considered to be herbs in TCM. These herbs can be used to treat both acute and chronic conditions, ranging from simple colds to infections to gynecological disorders and degenerative diseases. Many herbs are shown to have anti-bacterial or anti-viral properties while others work to promote the body's innate ability to heal and recuperate.

Herbs & Convenience
In my effort to make it simple and convenient for my patients yet maintain the effectiveness of the formula, I advice my patients to take the herbs in either of the two forms. Vacuum Pack decoctions or powder granules. The vacume packs are prepared after Kamwo (Herbal Pharmacy) receives my prescription and may be sent out to you directly or you may pick them up. The granule powdered formula is also prepared at 'Custom herbs' after they receive a prescription from me and may be sent to you directly.

Herbs & Quality Conscious
Most TCM practitioners including myself work with quality conscious herbal pharmacies, such as Kamwo and Custom Herb granule pharmacies. Good quality herbs are tested for pesticides, chemicals, bacteria, fungus, mold, and heavy metals as well as for potency.

Herbs & Safety
Due to the extremely low toxicity of Chinese herbs and because formulas are custom-written for each individual patient, these herbs can be safely taken by just about anyone. Pregnant women and lactating mothers can take Chinese herbs as long as their herbs are prescribed by a TCM practitioner. Children can also benefit from Chinese herbs for a wide variety of conditions.

Herbs & Results
In acute conditions, results can be expected almost immediately. Chronic conditions may take longer to correct, but results should be seen within the first several weeks. Although some chronic conditions could require taking your Chinese herbal formula for a longtime, early indications that it is working should be apparent to you from the very start.

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