What are Chinese herbs?

First accounts of Chinese herbal medicine date back about 5000 years. About 450 substances are commonly used. While few may be of animal and mineral origin; the majority of herbs used comes from medicinal plants; incorporating bark, leaves, seeds and roots. Some you will be very familiar with: such as ginger or garlic through cooking, cinnamon from sprinkling onto your porridge or peppermint from drinking a refreshing tea.

What are the herbs for?

Each substance has certain properties. For example some herbs have a cooling and antimicrobial or antibacterial action in the body and might be used to fight symptoms of the common cold, such as sore throat. Others might have analgesic properties, which may help manage pain. While yet others may nourish the body, providing support for those suffering from depletion and fatigue. There are also herbs that are known to have a calming effect on the mind and they may be prescribed in the treatment of anxiety related symptoms.

How do the herbs work?

Cooling or warming; moving upwards, downwards or outwards; moistening or drying - Chinese herbs have a vast number of actions. Some can be really nourishing on the body and provide support for weak and deficient patients; while others might be draining that of which there is be too much, for example, a lot of phlegm that can cause wheezing. Often there is a bit of both in each formula.

Combined to provide synergies, promote each other’s effects, or reduce potential side-effects; each formula uses a number of herbs that complement each other. While there are famous century-old formula combinations, the final prescription will usually be tailored to the specific presentation of symptoms for each patient.

Are Chinese herbs safe?

Used in proper quantities and appropriate combinations, prescribed by a qualified practitioner, Chinese herbal medicine is a safe and effective way to promote healing.

Herbal formulas prescribed as granules will be ordered from The Herb Booth and posted directly to the patient overnight. All herbs used by The Herb Booth have undergone chemical and microbiological testing to comply with with standards including heavy-metal toxins,bacteria or mould; as well a series of quality checks to ensure that the correct species has been identified.

For further information on quality assurance click here