Not every acupuncture treatment requires the use of herbs. There are, however, certain conditions that respond particularly well to a combination of acupuncture and herbal supplementation. Herbal therapy may be recomended to support the body healing process, or to get rid of pathogens or excesses, but this option will be discussed with you.

 

What is the origin of herbal medicine?

 

The healing properties of plants and herbs have been used for centuries by countless civilizations and cultures. Records show that Indigenous cultures religiously used plants and herbal preparations in their ceremonies and treatment of the ill. Numerous references to the use of Herbal treatments for medicinal purposes exist in Asian history. Ayurvedic medicine is also well known for their use of herbal preparations in patient treatment protocols.

 

The WHO (World Health Organization) estimated that 80% of people worldwide are currently relying on herbal formulations for at least part of their primary health care. In the last two decades, public dissatisfaction with the rising cost of prescription medicine, combined with an interest in returning to natural remedies, has led to a significant increase in the use of herbal preparations.

 

How Herbs Work?

 

Single, whole herbs consist of numerous active ingredients. These active ingredients work with one another to produce a desired beneficial effect. Single herbs are often combined since the combination of specific herbs in predetermined ratios may in fact be more effective. 

 

Since fatigue results from a lack of Qi, herbs that nourish the Qi have an energizing effect. Since blurry vision, restless sleep, and irritability result from depleted blood, blood enriching herbs improve vision, sleep, and equanimity. Since dry skin and dehydration arise from insufficient moisture, herbs that replenish it soften the skin and relieve an otherwise unquenchable thirst.

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Herbs assist the organ networks in the performance of their tasks. Particular herbs enhance the capacity of the heart to propel the blood and soothe the mind, the spleen to manage digestion and fluid equilibrium, the lung to handle respiration and body's defenses, the liver to maintain resilient emotions an supple limbs, and the kidney to sustain sexual and regenerative power. Some herbal formulas address ailments such as colds, allergies, inflammations, or cramps with dramatic and immediate results, while others fortify body reserves over time.

How safe are herbs?

 

When herbs are used in a correct and appropriate manner, they are a safe and highly effective way to treat numerous conditions. Side effects associated with the use of herbal formulations tend to be very rare when taken under the guidance of a trained professional.

 

Your herbal practitioner will examine you, take a thorough health history (including any medications you may presently be taking), and take these factors into account when designing a herbal treatment plan. Rarely, individuals report mild allergic reactions. Should any adverse side effects be suspected, please contact your herbal therapist and discontinue the use of your herbs.

 

Should I use herbal medicine?

 

Herbal formulations nourish the body in a unique manner. Herbs work to nourish the body at its deepest level to balance it while simultaneously addressing the root cause of an illness or disease. In addition, herbal supplementation tends to be very effective in treating chronic and stubborn ailments often resistant to traditional treatment and medication, while being safer with fewer side effects, if any.

 

An ever increasing number of health practitioners recognize and prescribe herbs in the treatment of their patients' illness and ailments. This in itself is further evidence of the safety and efficacy of herbal supplementation. Our bodies have their own unique ability to heal. Herbs simply assist the body to return to a balanced state so it may heal itself effectively.