Chinese Herbology
Herbal Medicine is a major component of TOM. Herbs have a balancing or
regulating effect on the body and are usually gentler than
pharmaceutical drugs. While side-effects are possible from herbal
medicine, they are usually minor. Herbal medicine can effectively address
a wide variety of conditions and has a long clinical history. A wide
variety of traditional formulae are available for practitioners to use, as
well as customized formulae to match the individual patient’s needs and
constitution.
Herbs affect the Qi and promote healing in one or more systems of the
body. Usually herbs are combined into formulae that address the main
health problem and support the mind-body system.
How Are Herbs Administered?
Chinese herbal medicine encompasses a pharmacopoeia composed of over
10,000 plant, mineral and animal substances. Despite this, most herbalists
work with 200 to 300 herbs.
Traditionally formulas were raw herbs, taken home by patients and cooked.
Today there are many options available to practitioners and patients,
including prepared pills, capsules and powders. Also used are externally
applied plasters and liniments.