CHINESE HERBS

History
How are herbs administered?
What is the safety and efficacy of herbs?

History

Chinese herbs are plants, insects, minerals, and animal extracts. Their uses to heal and prevent illness and discomfort have been documented for thousands of years. The famous agriculturalist and cultural legend of China, Shen Nong was reported to ingest each of the herbs to establish their properties. His findings were reported in the Shen Nong Ben Cao, the most well known book of Chinese medicinals. This classic text was the first to establish the foundations of Chinese herbal medicine by classifying the herbs into categories based on their flavors, functions, and indications for use.

Back to Top

How are herbs administered?

The different forms of herbal preparations include pills, tablets, powder, capsule, and raw herbs. They are taken internally for most conditions and also externally for pain and skin conditions.

Herbs are taken internally and used topically to address a myriad of conditions.  Herbal formulas are tailored to the needs of each individual. This is because each of us is born with and maintains a very unique constitution throughout life. For example, a young athletic person with back pain will likely be given a different herbal formula compared to an elderly patient with back pain and a weaker constitution. Similarly, a woman experiencing infertility may be given different herbal formulas depending upon the stage of her menstrual cycle.

Back to Top

What is the safety and efficacy of herbs?

All herbs used in Rebecca’s practice are bought from well-established companies in the U.S. who maintain standards of quality herbal preparation. The herbs are GMP certified and tested for pesticides and heavy metals.  

Chinese herbs should be taken only when recommended by a Licensed Acupuncturist or herbalist with training in Chinese herbal treatment strategies, preparations, and contraindications.

Back to Top