Chinese Herbal Medicine

Restore your body's balance

What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine, alongside acupuncture, is a fundamental component of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has been officially recognized by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) since July 1, 2012.

Originating in ancient China, Chinese herbal medicine is one of the world’s oldest and most continuously practiced healthcare systems. It has developed over thousands of years and adopts a holistic approach, focusing on balancing the body, mind, and environment while emphasizing disease prevention and overall well-being.

Since the 1960s, research on Chinese herbal medicine has expanded globally. Although further studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic mechanisms, growing evidence suggests that it is both safe and effective for managing various health conditions.

What Substances Are Used in Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine comprises over 10,000 different substances, though around 400 are commonly used. Most of these are plant-based, but some minerals and animal products are also included. Everyday ingredients like ginger, garlic, and cinnamon may be found in your kitchen, while herbs like dandelion, chrysanthemum, and peony flowers are more likely to be in your garden.

At our clinic, we provide Chinese herbal medicine in various forms, including raw herbs, extracted granules, powders, capsules, and pills for oral use. We also offer herbal oils, creams, and bath herbs for external application. Our practitioners will discuss these options with you and choose the best form based on your condition and needs.

How is Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescribed?

Chinese herbal medicine is prescribed based on a holistic and individualized approach. Each prescription is tailored to the patient’s unique needs and may be adjusted following consultations. The goal is to create a formulation that maximizes the therapeutic benefits of the herbs.

A well-designed prescription typically includes:

Primary Herbs: These target the root cause of the illness and address the main symptoms.
Secondary Herbs: These support the primary herbs by enhancing their effects, managing additional symptoms, or minimizing potential side effects.

The combination of these herbs is carefully crafted to optimize their therapeutic actions and provide a comprehensive treatment plan.

Conditions Commonly Treated with Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine provides a holistic approach to managing a variety of health conditions. Our expertise includes:

Supportive Care for Cancer: Including breast cancer, prostate cancer, bowel cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma, and more.
Immune Disorders: Such as asthma, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and related conditions.
Mental and Neurological Disorders: Including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, insomnia, tension headaches, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, and others.
Skin Conditions: Such as eczema, chronic urticaria (hives), psoriasis, neurodermatitis, and similar issues.
Women's Health: Addressing premenstrual syndrome (PMS), period pain, menopause, chronic urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and related concerns.
Other Concerns: Including overweight and obesity.

Potential Health Risks Associated with Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine is generally safe, but, like any treatment, it may occasionally cause mild adverse effects such as stomach upset, bowel changes, or skin rashes. These effects can vary from person to person and are often manageable by adjusting the ingredients in your prescription.

We strictly follow the "Guidelines for Safe Chinese Herbal Medicine Practice" (Chinese Medicine Board of Australia, 2023) and do not use any toxic or poisonous herbs. Our products are sourced from reputable suppliers who regularly test for heavy metals and pesticide residues to ensure quality. Additionally, we never use endangered animal or herbal products in our prescriptions.

The taste and smell of Chinese herbal medicine, especially in decoction or granule form, can be unpleasant due to their natural properties. If you find these forms unpalatable, we can provide alternatives such as capsules or pills.

It is important to inform us of any medications, including pharmaceuticals, other herbal substances, or supplements you are taking. This information helps us avoid potential interactions and ensures the safety and effectiveness of your treatment. If necessary, we can provide a detailed written report outlining the herbs used, supported by scientific evidence (laboratory and/or clinical research), explaining their role and benefits for your condition.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For any medical diagnosis or treatment concerns, please consult a qualified medical or healthcare professional.