What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated in ancient China and has evolved over thousands
of years. TCM practitioners use herbal medicines, along with other forms of treatment, to
treat or prevent health problems. Chinese herbal medicine uses different herbs in a
well-balanced formula: typically around six to twelve different herbs, depending on your
health condition. Chinese herbs and acupuncture are both excellent healing modalities to
help achieve harmony and balance within the body for a variety of conditions. Furthermore,
they are synergistic and work even better when used together.
A typical Chinese Herbal pharmacy in this country has about two to three hundred different
herbs. Most herbs are derived from various parts of plants such as roots, leaves, stem, and
bark. Cinnamon, ginger, scallions, cloves, orange peels and licorice are among the commonly
used herbs. Some actually come from food that we eat everyday – like cinnamon, ginger,
scallion, orange, pearl barley, dates, etc.
What makes our herbal dispensary special?
Our qualified staff will craft a personalized formula just for you. Though the old patent
formulas are proven effective, we strive to go beyond. Your herbalist will create a formula
unique to your condition. All formulas are digitized and weighed using our software, unlike
other dispensaries, minimizing human error. We use the highest quality herbs in our
dispensary to improve your quality of life. Our herbs only come from growers and suppliers
who meet our strict quality standards.
We believe that the individual approach is the best way to treat the underlying cause of
symptoms and disharmony. No two people are the same - nor should two people’s formulas be
the same. Your herbal formula will precisely be for you. Your prescription will be written
and filled the same day of your appointment. It is our goal to help patients treat the root
of their condition, not simply mask or treat symptoms like many Western medications. We will
give you the most authentic and beneficial formula possible, sparing no detail.
How does it taste?
Many Chinese herbal formulas are bitter to some palates and takes times to adjust to the
flavor. You may mix the tea or decoction with honey. However, you should taste the formula
before you sweeten, as the honey may change the flavor. Some people mix the herbs with their
favorite applesauce or yogurt (at room temperature) before taking them. Again, please follow
instructions as listed by your herbalist.
Are there side-effects? Are herbs safe to take with prescription
drugs?
Herbs are generally safe. Herbalists’ follow principles recommended by the Massachusetts
Board of Health so, please feel free to discuss any general dietary or lifestyle concerns
with your practitioner and whether herbs will have an effect on any present medications you
are taking.
Though there are not many side effects, the most common side effects include slight headache
and diarrhea. We cross-analyze each herbal formula with any current medications for any
possible adverse interactions. *** Please contact our centers immediately if you should have
an allergic reaction or adverse side effects. ***
Click here to see our FAQ and to
learn more about Chinese Herbal Medicine.