Chinese herbs have been used for centuries and a Materia Medica existed as early as the Tang dynasty in 600 CE. Today over 500 herbs, consisting of plant, animal and mineral substances are commonly used to treat various conditions. Herbs are taken in specific combinations called formulas which are put togther to attain a particular therapeutic result. They are usually taken raw boiled up in a decoction. Today to facilitate a busy lifestyle, herbs are available as soluble granules, capsules, tablets or pills.
Why it is essential to take herbal formulas under the direction of a Chinese Medicine practitioner
There is a basic concept in Chinese Medicine - "Same disease, different treatment, different disease, same treatment". Two people may have a headache, but the basic cause of the headache may be different in each person from the Chinese Medicine perspective, requiring a totally different treatment both with herbs and acupuncture. What is common is that the Root cause of the pain is addressed, not just the pain itself. This also works towards ensuring that the headache does not occur again, and if it does, with less frequency and severity. This is why it is important to take herbs under the direction of a practitioner, as self-dosing can be ineffective or sometimes make the condition worse. It is always advised never to share your herbal prescription with anyone, even if they seem to have the same condition.
Chinese medicinals and formulas used in clinic
All brands of Chinese Herbal medicinals used are manufactured to a standard required by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Factories have stringent quality controls to ensure that they comply with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Formulas from the Sunherbal Company consisting of the Black Pearl and ChinaMed range are available in pills or capsules for easy dosage. Click here for company details. They are particularly useful if herbs have to be taken for a long period of time and offer a convenient, affordable way to consume herbal medicine.
Soluble granules are also available from Kaiser Pharmaceuticals. They are easily dissolved in water, and allow specific herbs to be added to formulas to individualize them for particular patients. Kaiser is one of the oldest & largest companies manufacturing herbal granules in Taiwan where the use of soluble granules is the most common form of administration of Chinese medicinals. Kaiser granules are currently used worldwide and they are subject to stringent quality controls to ensure that the best herbs are used with no contaminants.
Special pediatric formulas from the Cathay Herbal range are also available for common conditions like fever, coughs, flu/colds, bed-wetting, teething, hyperactivity, digestive problems and skin conditions.They are soluble granules sweetened with a natural herb - stevia, and have a pleasant taste and are easy to take. Having them on hand can ensure that everyday illnesses do not get severe enough to necessitate a visit to the doctor or more serious medications. For information about Cathay Herbal, click here.
Chinese Herbal Creams for external treatment.
There are several creams for skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and burns. They are of high quality and made in small batches. They are often very helpful for itching and to assist in skin repair.
