When should I consider herbal medicine?
Plants have been the basis of medical treatments for much of human history, and when taken routinely, results can be more profound than acupuncture treatments alone. Herbal medicine can be recommended for acute conditions like allergies and cold and flu, but also for deeper, more chronic complaints with seemingly unrelated symtoms like Lyme Disease. Studies have shown Chinese herbal medicines to be successful in treating a range of disorders but have particularly been successful in gynaecological and gastrointestinal disorders.
how does Chinese herbal medicine differ from pharmaceutical drugs?
Many pharmaceuticals are derived from herbal medicine. However, drugs usually rely on singular molecular compounds, many of which are isolated extracts of the plants’ desired active constituents. Using the plant in its original form and combining it with other herbs into a balanced formula decreases any possible side effects. Most importantly, the goal of herbal treatment is not to simply relieve symptoms but to treat the internal imbalance at the root of the problem.
can i take pharmaceutical drugs and herbal medicine together?
It is very important to let your practitioner know about any pharmaceuticals that you are currently taking. In most cases, it is not contraindicated to take Chinese herbs alongside pharmaceutical drugs, but there are some exceptions. It is recommended to take any pharmaceuticals two hours from any herbal medication to allow for each specifically desired outcome to take effect.
What form do the herbs come in?
Chinese herbs can take the form of salves, tinctures, teas, pills, and powders. All of the forms are effective, but you should discuss with your practitioner which will work best for you.
Raw herbs are the most potent, but they can also be the most time consuming. It can require soaking a portion of the bulk herbs at home before simmering them for 30-40 minutes, straining, and then adding water for a second tea. Usually, a new batch of herbs will need to be decocted every two days.
Powdered formulas have the same advantages and disadvantages as raw herbs as they can be customize based on your individual condition but also have a strong flavor that you may or may not find pleasant. The difference is with powered herbs all the hard work has already been done, and all that is required is scooping them out dissolving them in hot water.
The pills, also known as patent medicine, are the most convenient form and can be a good choice for those who should be taking herbal medicine over an extended period of time. They are akin to over-the-counter medications like aspirin and cold remedies and can be found in drugstores. The disadvantage of the pills is that they aren’t able to be customized. You may need to take more than one formula at a time to address your symptoms and treat the root cause.
Herbal tinctures can be made by soaking the bulk herbs in a base of either alcohol or vegetable glycerin to extract the herbs’ active components. They are also a very convenient and portable method of taking the herbs, but are not suitable for people who cannot tolerate alcohol.
Salves, balms and ointments are made with fresh herbs typically soaked in oil and then combined with beeswax. They can be used topically to treat a variety of conditions from arthritic pain to skin conditions.
If an acute condition is being treated, generally you can expect to see results fairly quickly. If the condition is more chronic, you may need to take the herbs for a few months before you achieve lasting results. It is important to keep your practitioner informed of any changes in your condition so they are able to modify your formula accordingly.