Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here please feel free to contact us at any time!
When prescribed by a licensed practitioner, and taken as advised, Chinese herbs are safe. All of our practitioners are licensed to prescribe Chinese herbs and have been educated in the pharmacological attributes of chinese medicinals to avoid drug-herb interactions. A licensed practitioner can make sure that the herbal formulas that are being prescribed do not interact with western medicinals.
You can take herbs on an empty stomach. If you notice discomfort, consult with your practitioner.
It is usually not a problem, but we advise you check with your practitioner. For best absorption, be sure to take your supplements and herbs one hour apart.
Once the tea is cooked it is only good for 1 week in the refrigerator.
Tell your practitioner about your symptoms. Some experience digestive upset during the first few doses of herbs, and then symptoms usually subside.
Do not double up the next dose. For optimal results, do your best to stay on schedule.
Overcooking is not a problem, so long as the tea is not burned. If you have one concentrated cup of herbal tea, add three cups of warm filtered water to dilute it.
Few medications are incompatible with Chinese Herbs. It is important to tell your practitioner of all medications you are on, so they may determine if Chinese herbs are right for you.
Chinese herbs consist of dried plant, mineral, and animal products that are combined in a formula to work synergistically to treat an ailment. Chinese herbs are rarely used individually. When boiled at a certain temperature, the phytochemicals in the herbs interact to produce the desired medicine. Each formula is custom tailored to fit the patient’s needs. The herbs are soaked and cooked in water, then strained and served warm as a medicinal tea. Chinese herbal formulas are also available in pill and granular/powder form.
A raw herbal formula requires that the ingredients be soaked, then cooked in water and strained before they are ready to consume. A granular formula is one in which the herbs have already been soaked, cooked, strained and then dried into a granular-like powder. To prepare a granular formula, the powder is simply dissolved into a cup of hot water and consumed.
