CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine is a holistic healthcare system that dates back more than 2,000 years. TCM practitioners view the body as a complex network of interconnected parts, rather than separate systems or organs. This form of medicine is considered a holistic and natural system because it stimulates the body’s own healing mechanisms and takes into account all aspects of a patient’s life, rather than just a few specific signs and symptoms.
The goal of herbal therapy is to bring the body back into a state of homeostasis (balance) and restore proper energy (Qi). Unlike Western herbology, which promotes single herbs with singular symptomatic benefits, Chinese herbology uses herbs in specific mixtures to treat multiple disorders at the same time, addressing the root issue, thus effectively reaching the branch complaints. Herbs are considered a fundamental therapy to address acute and chronic conditions. Additionally the temperature and taste of herbs are used to create the proper synergy within a formula.
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Chinese herbal formulas are mainly plant based, but some preparations include minerals or animal products. In addition, a vast array of medicinal plants are anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and immuno-modulating, thus adding to their effectiveness. They can be prepared as granules, salves, tinctures, liniments, raw, or capsules depending on the herbs and their intended use. Different herbs have different therapeutic properties and can balance particular parts of the body. Your practitioner’s diagnosis takes into account the state of Yin and Yang within your body and constitution, and will then analyze the imbalance of elements that are governing the affected organs. A particular herb and/or concoction of herbs will be prescribed for internal or external use.
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