Chinese Herbal Medicine
The creation and administration of Chinese herbal formulas has been used since antiquity throughout China and other parts of Asia. One of the oldest systems of natural health care in the world, herbal medicine has evolved over the centuries to adapt to the ever changing nature of disease. In fact, it is not unusual to see the application of herbal medicine used side by side with modern medicine in State hospitals throughout China.
There are more than 400 substances used in the creation of Chinese herbal formulas. Most are plants, flowers, seeds, bark and roots, though some animal and mineral substances may be used. Some materials that were traditionally used, such as endangered species or toxic minerals, are no longer part of the repertoire in formulation.
Carefully considered for there individual properties, these ingredients are combined to maximize the effectiveness of treating a particular set of symptoms, without the side effects often experienced with pharmaceutical drugs. Formulas may be given in tea, tincture or pill (“patent”) form.
Often given as an adjunct to acupuncture treatments for a specific medical condition, herbal formulas may also be given as a preventive tonic. This is especially helpful during cold and flu season or when recuperating from a long term illness. As a patient’s condition changes or improves, the Chinese herbal formula will also change, adjusting until the symptoms or condition is eradicated.
Midwest Acupuncture Group stocks a full pharmacy of patent (pill form) Chinese herbal medicines. All formulas have been certified to meet rigorous standards in safety and efficacy. The manufacturer tests every incoming lot of herbs for over 200 different pesticides as well as all toxic metals and bio-burdens, such as yeast, mold, E. Coli, Staphylococcus and Salmonella.
An herbal consultation is included with your first acupuncture treatment and will be monitored thought your course of healing.
