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Chinese Herbal Medicine
推 拿 Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine is one of the great herbal systems of the world, with a tradition going back thousands of years.
Throughout its history it has continually developed in response to changing clinical conditions, and has been sustained by research into every aspect of its use. This process continues today.
Chinese Herbal Medicine works on the same bases as acupuncture in that its main aim is to balance the person as a whole and in doing so it treats disease and increases health helping the person to be more resistant to disease.
Different herbs have different properties and are combined together in different prescriptions tailored to suit the individual.
Herbal prescriptions are developed to use each herb to its greatest advantage. By combining different herbs together, it adjusts and increases the treatment results. It also makes it possible to treat complicated diseases at the same time.
There are various ways in which you can receive a Chinese Herbal prescription:
1. In the form of raw herbs.
2. In prepared prescriptions that come in pill form.
3. In prepared medicine form such as ointments, powders, plasters etc.
What can it treat?
Like with all aspects of TCM, Chinese herbal medicine takes a holistic approach in balancing the person as a whole.
It can have a therapeutic effect on all types of diseases. The results that can be expected and the length of treatment required will depend on the severity of the disease, its duration and the general health of the person.
If necessary, the TCM practitioner can combine acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in the TCM clinic in order to obtain maximum benefit from the treatment.
Who can it treat?
People of any age and constitution can benefit from Chinese herbal medicine. The TCM practitioner will take into account the presenting problem and/or any previous problems and also any medication the person may be taking at the time before providing treatment.
Are Chinese herbal prescriptions safe?
It has been recorded throughout history that Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years. This can only mean that its safety and efficacy have been considered and recognized many times before.
Chinese herbal prescriptions are free of chemicals or any other drug substances and as such, adverse reactions are extremely rare.
Special considerations
It is very important that people do not self diagnose any health conditions. Any medication (herbal or otherwise) should be taken under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.
Herbs can act on the body as powerfully as other pharmaceutical prescriptions and should be treated with the same care.
Never change or stop taking your western medical prescription in favour of herbs, vitamins or supplements without the consent of your doctor or GP - similarly, do not take any Chinese herbal prescriptions without it being prescribed by a qualified TCM practitioner.