Chinese Herbology
Herbs are plant, mineral, and animal substances that the body assimilates through its digestive, respiratory, and cutaneous tissues. Chinese herbology and acupuncture – both major aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - are complimentary therapeutic modalities that are often used together to address a variety of medical conditions. More than three hundred herbs that are commonly used today have a history of use that goes back at least 2,000 years. Over that time, a vast amount of experience has been gained that has gone towards perfecting their clinical applications.
Chinese herbs are rarely taken individually. Typically, individual herbs are combined in order to enhance their actions and intended results upon the body, and to minimize any harmful side effects. These combinations create balanced herbal formulas that are specific to the condition(s) being addressed. In order to create the most effective herbal formula, the herbs are used in different quantities and for different purposes. This allows the herbalist to create a formula aimed at addressing specific needs. Within each formula, a specific hierarchy exists:
1) Chief Herb – This herb has the greatest effect upon the principle problem and is the most important ingredient. It is the energetic and therapeutic focus of the entire formula.
2) Deputy Herbs – These herbs support the Chief herb in the resolution of the principle problem, as well as address any secondary complaints.
3) Assistant Herbs – The role of the assistant herbs is to support and reinforce the effects of the other herbs in the formula. They also help moderate or eliminate any harsh properties of the other herbs in the formula.
4) Envoy Herbs – Envoy herbs harmonize, guide, and focus the action of the entire formula on certain meridians or areas of the body.
In China, the two most common methods of applying herb therapies are to make a decoction (a strong tea that must be simmered for about an hour or more) and to make large honey-bound pills. Both of these forms meet with considerable resistance in Western countries. The teas are deemed too time-consuming, smelly, and awful-tasting to justify their use, and the honey pills (boluses) are sticky, difficult to chew, and bad tasting. Thus, modern forms that are more acceptable have been developed for most applications.
The two popular forms to replace the standard Chinese preparations are extract powders (or granules) and smooth, easy-to-swallow tablets or capsules. The extracts are made by producing a large batch of tea and then removing the water and producing a powder or tiny pellets; the resulting material is swallowed down with some water or mixed with hot water to make a tea. Tablets and capsules contain either powdered herbs or dried extracts or a combination of the two.
Chinese herbs have minimal side effects when recommended by a properly trained herbalist. What makes Chinese herbs particularly safe and effective is the art of combining herbs to form a carefully balanced herbal formula. These individualized formulas not only address the patient's main, presenting problem, but also address associated, secondary problems. Modern day Chinese herbal formulas are based on standard, classical formulas that have been tried and tested through millennia of clinical use, and can be modified to fit the individual needs of the patient. Although the side effects of Chinese herbal formulas are minimal compared to Western pharmaceuticals, Chinese herbs are strong and effective, and should only be recommended by a well-trained practitioner.
Chinese herbal formulas can greatly enhance the effects of Acupuncture, especially when chronic conditions are present, and daily therapy is crucial to achieving significant and lasting relief. If your Acupuncturist feels that Chinese herbs would be useful to you, an herbal formula will be recommended to meet your individual health needs. The effects of your herbal formula will be monitored, and adjustments will be made as needed, to minimize side effects and maximize your healing.
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