Anne Ballantine, L.Ac. Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs

Chinese Herbs

 

Traditional Chinese herbs work synergistically with acupuncture and have been used as an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 5000 years.  While many cultures have herbal medicine traditions, the sophistication of Chinese herbal medicine is unsurpassed. Chinese herbal medicine has a long history reaching back several thousand years, and the resulting system is now used to treat everything from the common cold to certain types of cancer.

There are thousands of herbs in the Chinese materia medica, of which about 300 are commonly used. You will generally receive a mixture of several different herbs in a formula that has been tailored to your condition. Raw herbs, patented teapills, granules, tinctures, plasters and topicals are some of the most common forms of Chinese medicinals used today. Although there are many common formulas that are frequently prescribed, generally in the form of tablets or capsules. Chinese herbs are extremely effective and normally have only mild side effects, however it is very important to tell me about all the medications and supplements you are currently taking so that we can avoid any unwanted interactions with your formula. It is important to work with a qualified herbalist who can prescribe the appropriate formula, monitor your progress and adjust the herbs and dosage as changes in your health occur.