“Treating an illness after it has begun is like suppressing a revolt after it has broken out. If someone digs a well only when thirsty, or forges weapons only after becoming engaged in battle, one cannot help but ask: Aren’t these actions too late?”
Herbal and Food Therapy
Chinese herbs refer to a broad range of botanical materials that have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and are an essential component of this medical system.
There are thousands of herbs (and foods), each with unique properties and applications. Hundreds are commonly used and include ginseng, ginger, licorice root, astragalus, and goji berries. These herbs are often used in combination to create complex herbal formulas that are tailored to each patient's unique needs.
In Chinese medicine, herbs are classified according to their energetic properties, such as their temperature, taste, and direction of action in the body. For example, some herbs are considered "cooling" and are used to reduce inflammation and fever, while others are "warming" and are used to improve circulation and digestion.
Chinese herbs are used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, menstrual disorders, and skin conditions. They are often prescribed as part of a holistic treatment plan that may also include acupuncture, dietary changes, and other lifestyle modifications.
Chinese herbs are often used in combination with other herbs, rather than as isolated compounds. This is because traditional Chinese medicine views both the human body and plant body as a complex system, and herbs are thought to work synergistically to address multiple imbalances at once.
While Chinese herbs boast a rich historical usage in traditional medicine, it is essential to recognize their potential interactions with medications and individual suitability. Consulting a licensed practitioner is vital before incorporating Chinese herbs into one's regimen, ensuring the use of high-quality herbs from reputable sources, and adhering to proper preparation methods.