Chinese medicinal herbs have provided a holistic and natural approach to treating illnesses for thousands of years. As more Americans turn to more natural ways to treat illnesses without chemicals or other toxins, Chinese medicinal herbs have become more popular. There are nearly 6,000 different types of herbs, minerals, and animal substances used in Chinese herbology. Here is an overview of some of the most popular formulations. Please note that herbal preparations are not right for everyone, and can interact negatively with both prescription and over the counter medications. Always check with your doctor before you add herbal remedies, especially if you have an underlying health condition or take any medications.

Ephedra

If you ever considered taking an herbal supplement for weight loss or energy, you might be familiar with ephedra. It was marketed in the United States as a weight loss supplement or stimulant before it was banned in 2004 after overuse caused health concerns from the FDA. However, as a Chinese medicinal herb, ephedra is used to treat asthma, not as a weight loss supplement. With the proper guidance, it can help treat asthma effectively.

Hemp Seed Pill

For those suffering from constipation, dry stool, or excessive urination, a hemp seed pill might be the answer. It is made from ingredients such as hemp seed, bitter apricot kernels, white peony root, Chinese rhubarb, orange, and magnolia bark. Hemp seed pills work like a laxative, moving anything in the intestines out with stimulation. Hemp seed pills should be discontinued after they achieve the laxative effect. If used too often, they could cause diarrhea.

Tonification Formulas

In Chinese herbology, there is a focus on achieving or restoring balance. Specifically, the body is weaker when the yin and yang are out of balance. To correct this, tonification formulas are used. These formulas may have ginseng, cassia bark, licorice root, angelica root, and anemarrhena rhizome. Conditions this formulation would treat include tuberculosis, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. The exact formulation would vary based on the actual formula and the condition treated.

Peach Blossom Decoction

Peach blossom decoction is used for those with recurring bouts of diarrhea, which may include blood or pus and abdominal pain. This formula includes red halloysite, fried ginger, and long grain rice. The idea is to stop the diarrhea and abnormal discharge of other bodily substances so that the body is more stable.

Cinnabar Pills

Tranquility, calmness, and relaxation are important in traditional Chinese medicine, as better health is achieved when the body is balanced. For some, Cinnabar pills can help calm them. This formula includes cinnabar, golden threat rhizome, rehmannia root, angelica root, and roasted licorice root. It is used to treat insomnia, panic attacks, and anxiety.

Located in Pacific Palisades, with satellite clinics in Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, and Beverly Hills, Thumos Health Center offers patients exceptional personalized care. If you are ready to take the first steps toward a more integrative approach to your health care, we invite you to phone 310-428-1215 to schedule an appointment at any of our Los Angeles locations. Our highly knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.