Chinese herbal medicine is one of the most documented and trusted herbal systems it dates back to the 3rd century B.C. Many of the Chinese herbal practices have been exported to the west. Chinese medicine is not only herbal supplements but also a lifestyle the Yin and Yang. This creates a balance in one’s life the belief is that when your life is out of balance your health is affected. Acupuncture, herbal therapy, dietary therapy, and exercise are used to maintain to health.
Chinese herbs are taken in many forms tea, pills, tablets, and capsules. There is over 700 different types of teas. Teas vary based on growing conditions, but mostly how they are processed after they are harvested green and white teas are heat processed, Oolong teas are only partially oxidized, while black teas are completely oxidized. Teas are usually consumed on a daily bases to maintain balance.
Herbs are unlike medicinal medicine they treat the whole body so if you are receiving treatment for cancer and take a herb formula to treat your cold, the herb can affect your cancer treatment. The FDA has a list of herbs that they have approved to treat certain types of aliments.
Herbs can be prescribe by several different individuals herbalists, chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, pharmacists, medical doctors, and practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Naturopathic physicians subscribe to the traditions associated with Chinese Medicine. They attend 4 years of postgraduate training in herbal medicine.
Herb medicine continues to be an important alternative to conventional medicine as the cost of traditional medicine increases.