Chinese Herbal Medicine

What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine dates back at least 2000 years. The earliest known materia medica, called the Shen Nong Ben Cao (Divine Farmers Classic of the Materia Medica), was written around 200 AD. It featured a collection of 365 herbs, many of which are still used today.

The earliest known materia medica, called the Shen Nong Ben Cao (Divine Farmers Classic of the Materia Medica), was written around 200 AD. It featured a collection of 365 herbs, many of which are still used today.

Various Chinese medicine physicians through each Chinese dynasty observed the synergistic actions and effects of herbs when combined to treat various conditions within their communities. Many of these combinations continue to be used worldwide. In East Asia, herbal medicine has always been integrated with biomedicine to treat illness and disease, subject to extensive research, including clinical trials.

Although the herbs used in Chinese medicine come from different East Asian countries, many of the plants are recognizable in the UK. For example, Gan Cao is part of the liquorice plant, Jin Yin Hua is honeysuckle, Gui Zhi is cinnamon, and Bai Shao is white peony.

Many herbs are also common food products, which means they can sometimes be added to soups, casseroles, or made into tea. For instance, Gou Qi Zi, known as goji berries in the West, are used for their tonifying properties and are often added to porridge. They can also be combined with Ju Hua, the chrysanthemum flower, to make a herbal tea.

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How does Chinese herbal medicine work?

One of its main strengths is considering the whole person, not just the symptoms. For instance, if three people seek support for headaches, each might receive a different combination of herbs based on their individual condition and symptoms.

Generally, herbs are not used alone but in combinations known as formulas. A practitioner often modifies these formulas by adding or removing herbs to suit an individual's diagnosis. Many formulas have been developed over centuries, some dating back 2000 years.

Is Chinese herbal medicine safe?

A qualified herbal practitioner knows how to safely use herbs. Like all drugs, plants can have some toxicity, and adverse reactions usually occur when herbs are self-administered or supplied by unqualified individuals. When prescribed by skilled professionals, Chinese herbs have an excellent safety record. Qualified practitioners are knowledgeable about drug and herb interactions and trained to observe for any issues.

Choosing a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM) ensures that your practitioner has adequate training. Alison holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Chinese herbal medicine and is a member and council member of the RCHM. RCHM practitioners study pharmacology, pharmacognosy, and evidence-based research practices as part of their course. Their support is supplementary and does not replace biomedical advice from a medical practitioner. Consult your GP for medical advice.

Is Chinese herbal medicine ethical?

In the UK, using animal products in herbal treatments is illegal, ensuring ethical and suitable treatment for all. Globally, the RCHM and its members vehemently oppose the illegal animal trade, cruelty, and use of endangered species. Members commit to using safe, sustainable herbs and plant medicines. Approved suppliers follow strict guidelines to ensure high standards, including ethical sourcing of herbs.

How do I take it?

There are different methods to take Chinese herbs. Common forms include raw dried herbs, which are boiled as a decoction, or dried granules, to which boiling water is added and consumed like tea. At Eight Branches, granules are currently used for their ease of preparation.