Herbal Medicine (cao yao)

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The practice of Chinese herbal medicine can be traced back at least 5000 years, making it one of the oldest systems of health care in the world. Over the millennia, Chinese herbal medicine has developed and matured to become what it is today: a natural and holistic system of primary health care used by people from a variety of backgrounds to effectively treat a range of chronic and acute health problems.

Currently more than 450 substances are used in Chinese herbal medicine. Most are of plant origin, though some animal and mineral substances are also used.

Some, such as ginger, garlic and cinnamon, are common, but many of the substances may be unfamiliar to you, such as chai hu (bupleurum), di huang (rehmannia) and huang qi (astragalus). Some substances that were used traditionally are no longer part of the modern professional Chinese herbal medicine practice. For example, traditional remedies derived from endangered species have been replaced by other substances with similar actions.

Chinese herbal medicines consist of individual herbs made into formulae that take into account the individual therapeutic action of each herb and as well as the combined effects. A well-constructed formula maximizes the effectiveness for treating a particular condition, while counteracting and minimizing the unwanted effects of an individual herb.

Most illnesses present with a core set of recognizable signs and symptoms, but these symptoms can vary from person to person. For this reason, people with similar health conditions may be given quite different Chinese herbal medicine prescriptions. A qualified practitioner is able to prescribe an herbal formula that specifically matches and treats your individual health problem. As your condition changes and improves, the Chinese herbal treatment will be adjusted accordingly until the desired outcome is achieved.

Chinese herbal medicine takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes, and focuses as much on prevention as treatment. By strengthening and enhancing normal body functions, it works to boost the immune system and promote general wellness.

Further Reading

Source:http://www.nyacuhealth.com/