Chinese herbs have been employed therapeutically for almost 5000 years. Their use was incorporated into the system of Chinese medicine that also included acupuncture, nutrition and massage. Chinese medicine, like Osteopathy, emphasizes that the body has the ability to heal itself. Herbs are believed to aid in the process of rebuilding, normalizing, and maintaining the functioning of the body. Over the centuries Chinese herbs have been prescribed by thousands of herbalists for millions of patients.

Herbs, more like food than drugs, can supplement our diet and fortify our constitution as well as prevent or remedy ailments. Herbs are well tolerated and rarely cause unwanted side-effects. The herbs work well as a system by themselves but can be readily combined with Western medicines. There are a few specific herbs which should not be combined with certain prescription medicines.

There is an unfortunate tendency in the West to recommend specific herbs for specific symptoms, such as giving St. John's Wort for anyone having depression, Ginseng to enhance sexual performance, or Ginko for mental alertness. This approach will give symptomatic relief to some, but the traditional system of Chinese herbs formulates a specific prescription for each individual, recognizing that every person has a unique constitution. Thus, one is more likely to make significant improvements in overall health if given a personally formulated herbal prescription.

A determination of the best herbal approach for you requires an assessment of your unique symptoms, personality traits and basic constitution. This assessment consists of physical examination and questioning relative to Chinese medical theory. The information obtained is used to prepare an herbal extract that is formulated especially for you.