I offer consultation in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine (TCHM) as a form of scientific artistry. The knowledge I have is based on one of the greatest preserved complete herbal systems of the world, with an unbroken tradition going back to the 3rd century BC. Throughout history the medicine has continually developed in response to changing clinical conditions, and modern lifestyle, and has been sustained by research into every aspect of its use. This process continues today with the development of modern medical diagnostic techniques and knowledge.
Chinese Herbs are a safe and very effective way to treat many conditions. When I say safe, I mean safe. You can take the herbs I prescribe to you when you are taking other forms of medicine because I take into consideration all your medications as part of the assessment.
Do not take Chinese herbs from anyone, even an acupuncturist, who is not specifically trained for this. There are many acupuncturist who studied acupuncture techniques and not Chinese medicinals. It is a complex, sophisticated system that can be dangerous and can make you very sick if not prescribed by a qualified physician. Do not take Chinese herbs from a western doctor who is not Board Certified in Chinese Herbology. It is very enticing for other practitioners to offer advice regarding Chinese herbs to their patients because the Medicine is so effective, and because the regulations are still quite lax. It is also very common for doctors to tell you that Chinese Medicine is not safe for this or that condition. It is safe as long as you are working with a fully qualified practitioner. In the pharmacy, we source our herbs from US companies with the highest standards and testing procedures. Detailed information on our sources is available upon request.
The philosophy behind TCHM is very different from what we are used to in the West. Our modern health craze and supplement craze promote this or that miracle herb as the answer to everyone’s problems. Chinese Medical prescription are very rarely one herb, they are mixed in combinations called formulas. Formulas are specifically design for you and how your body is showing up. It can certainly be a miracle cure, but it is not for everyone. Just because something helped for your allergies, does not mean it is going to help your friend’s allergies. It would be so much simpler that way. But we are not simple.