CHINESE Herbal Medicine
Have you ever self-medicated, read up on the latest social media miracle cure or health fad and followed it? This is becoming very common practice and herbs and illegal pharmaceuticals are being bought online in a desperate attempt to find relief without the advice of a professional. The Australian government and private health insurance companies have disallowed insurance rebates for many natural therapies which makes it even more difficult for patients to find affordable help. It is very important to get professional guidance on what you need and how to use it. This can change as the condition changes.
So why use a herbalist?
Not all herbs are safe and the quantities and purity are very important; some can cause side effects when used in conjunction with western drugs or other herbs; and some are toxic in large amounts or if used for too long. Liquorice may raise your blood pressure or give you diarrhoea if used incorrectly. Correctly used it may help digestion and balance out many formulas. In Australia, the purity of herbs is determined by the TGA and a GMP stamp and number is given on the packaging. These products are only sold by professional herbalists and there is minimal chance of impurities such as heavy metals or pesticides in them. Herbalists have many years of training and continued education, which includes the knowledge of possible drug interactions, correct quantities, and labeling. They may also pick up symptoms that require further investigation by a GP or specialist or ones that are missed by them.
The earliest evidence of Chinese medicine dates back to the Eastern (Later) Han dynasty (25-220 CE) with archaeological findings such as the Mawangdui medical manuscripts. By the 3rd century, major classics were written or compiled such as the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic (Huang di nei jing), Essentials from the Golden Cabinet (Jin gui yao lue), Discussion of Cold damage (Shang han lun) and Divine Husbandman’s Classic of Materia Medica (Shen nong ben cao jing).
This clinic prefers to use granules and pills as they are an easy and effective way of taking the medication. Endangered species are not used and formulas and herbs can be made-up to suit vegans. By using pure high grade granulated herbs (which you just add hot a little hot water to and drink as a tea or take as capsules), it is possible to tailor ancient and modern formulas to your individual symptoms.
There is a large body of research evidence on the efficacy, pharmacology and actions of many herbs. In Sydney, a university has researched a traditional herbal formula used for dementia.
