Chinese herbs are natural substances, such as roots, leaves, flowers, and fruits, that are used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to promote health, prevent illness, and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Chinese herbal medicine has a long history and has been used in China and other parts of Asia for thousands of years.
Chinese herbs are typically prescribed as part of a customised formula, which may contain several herbs that work together synergistically to achieve a specific therapeutic effect. These formulas are based on the principles of TCM, which emphasises the balance and flow of vital energy or Qi, and the interrelationship between different body systems.
Chinese herbs are used to address a wide range of health issues including:
- Headaches, sinus infection, tonsillitis, bronchitis
- Digestive problems; IBS, Crohn’s disease, diarrhoea, constipation
- Urinary tract infections (UTI’s), thrush and candida infections
- Menstrual disorders, heavy bleeding, endometriosis
- Inflammation, chronic pain
- Mental health, anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia
They may be used alone or in combination with other therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, or dietary changes.