Herbal Therapy has been used to treat a variety of disorders throughout China and the rest of the world for centuries. Because of this, there is an unsurpassed amount of data as to their efficacy and long-term effects on the body. In Chinese Medicine, the term ‘herb’ is used to refer to all medicinal substances whether plant, animal, or mineral. Herbs are combined into formulas tailor fit to each individual’s body type and state of health, in order to address not only the symptoms, but also the root cause of those symptoms. Herbs are commonly used preventatively to strengthen the body against pathogens, stress, exhaustion and decline.
Chinese Herbs are highly effective and free from adverse side effects when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. Much of the beauty of this ancient medicine rests in nature’s own chemistry. By using a plant in its entirety, the natural chemical balance is left in tact preserving the inherent system of checks and balances that allow it to be both effective and safe at the same time. This also provides a non-reactive environment in which to assemble a multitude of combinations of these substances, and at times even produces a synergistic response, whereby different herbs enhance the others affects exponentially.
Roughly one third of prescription pharmaceuticals are plant based. The active chemicals are isolated and used in a concentrated form as prescription drugs. This leads to undesirable side effects that otherwise do not occur when these active chemicals are left in there natural state. Herbal Medicine provides a means of addressing health safely, by returning to nature’s source to heal our natural bodies.
At the Mind & Body Acupuncture Clinic, Herbal Therapy is one of many tools used to bring the body into balance so as to achieve optimal health. Your visit will consist of Acupuncture, Herbal prescription and will often include nutritional and lifestyle advice. Formulas are available in capsules, tinctures, granules and liquid decoctions so that the benefits of natural herbal medicine can be made accessible for any lifestyle.
