For centuries, herbal remedies have been accepted in China and other Asian countries. The West is now taking note of the timelessness of this ancient medicine and is beginning to incorporate herbal medicine to treat a variety of health issues.
“There are several studies proving the safety and effectiveness of herbal medicine,” says Galina Rueffener, a certified and licensed herbalist in Los Angeles. “But just because it's natural doesn't mean it's problem-free. Treat herbal medicine like a prescription. Before taking anything, get it evaluated by a qualified doctor first.”
We will explain what you need to know before taking herbal medicine.
What is Chinese Herbalism?
Herbal medicine uses herbs to improve health. “The biggest difference between Western herbalism and traditional Chinese herbalism is that herbalists don't treat symptoms or diseases. They treat the whole person, including symptom patterns,” Rufener says.
Herbal medicine has thousands of years of data to support it. “Throughout history, Chinese emperors sought to preserve and increase the knowledge of previous eras. This means that today we have pretty much no idea how herbs or combinations of herbs work for different people. That means we have a clear written record for 2,000 years.”
Herbal medicine therapy is carried out in the following ways:
Granules or easily digestible capsules. Teas, liquid extracts, powders. Traditional formula. A custom formula created just for you by an herbalist.
“We use a traditional formula consisting of several herbs whose role is strictly specified. Some of them are the main active ingredients that address the main symptoms. Secondary Some people may be dealing with physical complaints and symptoms,” Rufener says. “That's why we customize most of our herbal formulas to each person.”
Function of Chinese herbal medicine
Rufener says herbal medicine is rooted in the concept of pattern differentiation. Identifying patterns involves identifying a sequence of signs and symptoms from a person's head to toe.
“We don't treat diseases; we treat patterns and patients,” she explains. “Think of the many different habitats on our planet, such as the Sahara Desert, the wetlands of Florida, and the Canadian wilderness. We need to care for each habitat in its own way. ” she says.
For example, she says: “It doesn't matter how much herbicide you spray on a wetland, something will always be able to grow there because the environment will welcome it. Our bodies also have unique properties that require a unique approach. It doesn't matter how many antibiotics we administer, as long as the internal environment welcomes the problem, the problem will still remain. We strive to create an environment where people are less likely to experience health problems.”
The herbs that achieve this are very unique. For example, peppermint and cinnamon are both known to have antiviral properties. But how well they work varies from person to person.
“Peppermint is cold and cinnamon is warm. So I end up giving peppermint to a menopausal patient with hot flashes, but cinnamon is too spicy for her,” she says.
“Cinnamon, on the other hand, is suitable for older gentlemen who wear thick coats and boots in the summer, so they can avoid side effects,” she explains.
How long does it take for herbal medicine to become effective? Rufener said treatment can take one to two weeks, or even longer. “If you're treating a fever or a cough, it's okay to go right away. But if you've had health problems or multiple chronic illnesses for 40 years, it may take longer.” Sho.”
What are the benefits of herbal medicine?
Rufener says herbs can help everyone, but especially people with problems or syndromes that are difficult to diagnose. These conditions include:
Allergies, autoimmune diseases, side effects of cancer treatment, diarrhea and constipation, digestive problems, infertility, irritable bowel syndrome, immune system regulation, menopause, menstrual or endometriosis pain, persistent fatigue .
The most common formula in the U.S., called “Free and Easy Wanderer” (Xiao Yao Wang), regulates mood and is great for stress, Rufener said. Ginseng is also a popular herb, but Ruefener warns that it's not safe for everyone because it can overstimulate the central nervous system.
Are herbal medicines safe?
Rueffener is one of many researchers who have conducted extensive research into the safety of herbal medicine. “One of the important safety measures in both conventional Western medicine and Eastern medicine is the function of the liver and kidneys. These organs help eliminate drugs and herbs from the body,” she explains. Masu.
“Throughout the seven-year study, not a single test result showed any problems with the kidneys or liver. And out of 333 patients, only 5 had very mild cases of itching and shortness of breath due to allergic reactions. It was just that,” she says.
Rufener also points out that the more often herbalists see patients, the safer it will be. “Unlike Western medical prescriptions, I cannot give you one prescription for a year and refill it without seeing you again. It will not take more than eight weeks before I re-evaluate you. Also, If your condition or symptoms change, we may meet weekly to adjust your prescription as needed.”
How to find a qualified herbalist
If you're interested in trying herbal medicine, talk to your doctor first. Once you have your doctor's permission, seek out a trained and licensed herbalist. Next, check to see if the herbalist is willing to work with your doctor and uses high-quality herbs.
“You should look for a doctor who is certified in traditional Chinese or oriental medicine. National board certification is the basis for national licensure. It also means that the herbalist has completed education in Chinese herbalism and passed a rigorous exam. It means that you have passed the test,” Rufener added.
“However, different states have different titles for herbalists, which can lead to confusion. The best way to find someone qualified is to visit the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine's physician directory.”
Things to be careful about when taking herbal medicine
During your initial consultation, your herbalist will ask for a detailed health history, including past and current illnesses. They will also want to know about any medications you are taking. This is important because herbs and medications can interact poorly.
Both your herbalist and your doctor will need to monitor your progress. By regularly checking your liver and kidney function, you can check whether your herbs are being metabolized (processed) correctly. Rufener also says it's important to never self-medicate with herbs.
“Herbal medicine is an important component of holistic therapy. When used under the guidance of a trained physician, it can be a good medicine. However, it should not be used as a substitute for regular medical care.”
