How herbs are used in Chinese medicine

In Chinese medicine, herbs are used very differently than herbs are used in the western tradition.  We follow Chinese medical theory in the diagnosis of syndromes, or sets of symptoms, instead of prescription of herbs based on one symptom or disease category.

For example, a western herb may be suggested to relieve the symptoms of the common cold.  In the Chinese tradition, we distinguish several different types of a cold.  There is a cold that presents with body aches, chills and a slight fever.  There is a cold that presents with a sore throat and a high fever.  There may or may not be coughing, sweating or sneezing.  There are many different combinations of symptoms that we first have to determine before an herbal formula is considered.

Once the combination of symptoms, or syndrome, is determined, we then select an herbal formula which addresses this particular syndrome.  One basic characteristic we look at in the syndrome is temperature.  A sore throat and fever show heat.  Chilliness and white sputum show cold.  The herbs each have a temperature as well, and the temperature of the syndrome must be treated by the temperature of the formula. 

Temperature is just one of the many characteristics we must consider in diagnosing a syndrome and selecting an herbal formula.  We spend several years studying the symptoms and syndromes of the body in order to reach the correct diagnosis. 

Each herb in the Chinese pharmacopoeia has a certain set of properties.  One of these properties is temperature; they can be cold, hot, warm, cool or neutral.  Each herb also has one or more tastes, which can be acrid, sweet, bitter, sour or salty. 

Chinese herbs are almost always prescribed as a formula or combination of two or more different herbs.  A formula can treat several symptoms at once and the herbs compliment, supplement or temper each other.

The more I study and learn about Chinese herbal medicine, the more I am convinced that these herbal formulas should only be prescribed by those of us who are trained in the Chinese medical tradition.  Not only is it necessary to know the herbs and formulas as well as their contraindications and dosages, it is necessary for the condition that is being treated to be diagnosed properly in the first place.  Both of these skills require dedicated study under experienced instructors.

After all, Chinese herbal medicine is a powerful therapy in Chinese medicine and we should respect that power by referring to experts for its use. 

*In a special note*
I am not currently prescribing herbal formulas in my practice.  Through my study of herbs and my study and experience in medicine, I understand that a practitioner must have a relationship with plants in order to call upon their healing.  Honestly, only the hardiest of plants survive in my garden.  The herbs and plants I use for my own health care are the flower essences that are transmitted and prepared by Karen LaVigne at Earth Mother L.L.C.  Karen is powerful and so are her salves, essences and perfumes.  She can be reached at www.yourearthmother.com