What Conditions can Chinese Herbal Medicine Treat?
Chinese herbal medicine has been around since the beginning of time. While many cultures are fully aware of the healing powers of this treatment, many people in the United States are in the dark about its benefits. Studies have revealed Chinese herbs to successfully treat the following conditions:- Common Cold and Flu: Herbs like elderberry, echinacea, and licorice can be beneficial in reducing symptoms associated with these conditions by boosting the immune system and fighting off infection. These herbs can also be helpful in preventing colds and flus in the first place by increasing resistance to bacterial and viral infections.
- Skin Conditions: Herbs like skullcap root and burdock root can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. These herbs work by increasing circulation to the affected areas which helps improve nutrient delivery to the skin cells.
- Digestive Issues: Poor digestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal issues can all be treated with Chinese herbal medicine. Herbs like ginger root, licorice root, rhubarb root, and others can be beneficial in relieving symptoms associated with these disorders. These herbs work by increasing digestive juices and promoting better absorption of nutrients from the food you eat.
- Respiratory Problems: Chinese herbal medicine is also effective for treating respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies. Herbs like ginkgo biloba can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and allow more oxygen to enter into the bloodstream. Other herbs such as mint leaf and mulberry leaf can help reduce the production of mucus and relieve congestion.
- Stress-Related Disorders: Anxiety, depression, and insomnia can be treated with herbs like wild yam root, jujube seed, and passionflower can help to reduce levels of stress hormones in the body while promoting relaxation. These herbs can also help improve sleep quality by reducing restlessness and increasing the amount of deep sleep you get each night.
- Fatigue and Joint Pain: Herbs like dong quai root and angelica root can be helpful in relieving symptoms associated with fatigue such as muscle aches, headaches, and low energy levels. For joint pain, herbs like ginger root and licorice root can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and promoting better joint mobility.
- Inflammation: Chinese herbal medicine offers a safe and effective way to treat inflammation. By targeting the root cause of the imbalance in the body, it can help relieve symptoms such as pain and swelling while promoting healing. Herbal formulas may also include ingredients such as ginger, turmeric, goji berries, and other medicinal plants that possess anti-inflammatory properties.
- Nausea: Herbal remedies used to treat nausea may include ginger, peppermint, fennel, and chamomile. These herbs are taken in various forms such as fresh leaves, teas, tinctures, or capsules. They are believed to stimulate digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, resulting in relief from nausea symptoms.
- Heart Disease: Certain herbs have been found to be particularly effective in treating specific cardiovascular conditions. Ginseng is known to improve blood circulation and protect against heart attacks, hawthorn berries are believed to lower cholesterol levels, garlic is thought to prevent the formation of blood clots, and ginger may reduce high blood pressure.
- Alzheimer and Parkinson’s Disease: Chinese herbs can be used to improve brain function by increasing the flow of qi and restoring balance to the body. Herbs such as ginkgo biloba, bacopa monnieri, and huang qi are commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine to help with cognitive issues caused by Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
8 Common Herbs Used in Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbs are the cornerstone of Chinese herbal medicine, with each one having its own unique properties and benefits. Here are 8 commonly used herbs, not only by Family Integrative Medicine, but by holistic doctors everywhere:- Licorice Root: Licorice root is native to parts of Asia and Europe, including Turkey, Iran, India, and China. It is believed that the use of licorice root dates back to ancient Egypt. In Chinese medicine, it has been used for centuries as a remedy for various ailments, from skin conditions to digestive issues.
- Ginseng: Ginseng is native to the eastern part of Asia, primarily Korea, China, and parts of Russia. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known to boost energy levels and reduce stress.
- Ginger: Ginger has been cultivated since ancient times, with historical records indicating its use in Chinese and Indian medicines dating back over 5,000 years. It has long been used to treat various ailments, such as indigestion and nausea. Throughout the Middle Ages, ginger was also widely used in Europe to treat a variety of ailments including fever, colds, headaches, toothaches and even gout.
- Ginkgo Biloba: The primary ingredient in ginkgo biloba comes from the leaves of the Ginkgo tree, which is native to China but can now be found growing in other parts of the world. It is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, such as helping with memory and cognitive function, relieving stress and anxiety, and improving circulation.
- Astragalus: The astragalus root is typically harvested from wild plants, though it can also be cultivated in gardens. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which are thought to help reduce stress levels and boost immunity. Its first recorded use was by Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing about 2,000 years ago.
- Turmeric: Known for its bright yellow color and earthy flavor, tumeric is believed to have many health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant activity. Tumeric is a root vegetable, native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. It is part of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, and its scientific name is Curcuma longa. The plant grows in tropical climates and thrives in hot, humid weather.
- Goji Berries: Native to the Himalayan region, China, and other parts of Asia, these tart, red-orange berries are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients that can help support a healthy immune system, improve mental clarity, and even reduce inflammation in the body.
- Astragalus Root: It is native to Northern China, Mongolia, and Korea, but it can be found growing in other parts of the world as well. From supporting the immune system to protecting the liver, astragalus root has been well-researched and proven to have many health benefits.
FAQs About Chinese Herbal Medicine
If you have a question about traditional Chinese herbal medicine that isn’t answered below, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’d be happy to clarify any thoughts or concerns you have!
Are Chinese herbs safe?
Herbal medicine is generally considered safe when prescribed by a trained practitioner. However, certain herbs can interact with medications or have undesirable side effects in some individuals. It is important to consult with an experienced herbalist before taking any herbs to make sure they are right for you.
How are Chinese herbs administered?
Chinese herbs are most commonly taken as a tea, decoction, or tincture. Herbal teas are made by adding boiling water to dried herbs and allowing them to steep for several minutes. Decoctions involve simmering the herbs in water for an extended period of time. Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that can be taken in small doses. In addition to these methods, some practitioners may also use granules, pills, powders, or topical applications.
What is an herbalist?
An herbalist is a practitioner trained in the use of plant-based medicines and holistic healing modalities. They have knowledge of the therapeutic properties of herbs and how to combine them into effective formulas. An herbalist evaluates a patient’s health history, lifestyle, diet, and physical and emotional well-being in order to create a personalized treatment plan that will address their individual needs.
What are the benefits of Chinese herbal medicine?
Chinese herbal medicine offers many potential benefits to those who choose to incorporate it into their health care regimen. Herbs can be used to restore balance and promote overall well-being, as well as treat specific conditions. They are also often more affordable than pharmaceutical drugs and may have fewer side effects. Additionally, herbs can be used in conjunction with other therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and nutritional counseling.
What is the difference between Chinese herbs and supplements?
While both Chinese herbs and dietary supplements can be beneficial for health, there are important distinctions between the two. Dietary supplements typically contain concentrated forms of vitamins, minerals, or other compounds found in food sources. Chinese herbs, on the other hand, are made from various parts of plants such as leaves, flowers, roots, bark, and fruits. These parts may be combined into complex formulas with specific therapeutic effects. In addition to providing nutrients to the body, Chinese herbs also aim to create balance within the body’s systems and restore wellness.
What should I expect in my first visit regarding Traditional Chinese Medicine?
The practitioner will ask questions about your medical history and do an exam to look for signs of chemical imbalance. Then we will develop an action plan based on the discoveries.
How long does it take for Chinese herbal medicine to work?
This depends on various factors such as the condition and the herbs being used. But, typically between 2-3 weeks. Consult with your practitioner for a more accurate time frame.
Can pregnant women use Chinese herbs?
If they are prescribed by a licensed practitioner, yes.
How Does Acupoint Injection Therapy Incorporate Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Acupoint injection therapy: blending modern medicine with traditional Chinese herbal medicine. This innovative approach combines the use of traditional acupuncture points with injections of herbal medicines. By delivering the herbal formulas directly into specific acupoints, this therapy aims to maximize the therapeutic effects and promote balance within the body. Derived from ancient Chinese healing practices, acupoint injection therapy merges the wisdom of traditional medicine with modern techniques, offering a unique and holistic healing experience.
