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THE HERBS USED

PATENT HERBAL PREPARATIONS

These are sold as over-the-counter remedies for colds and flu, coughs and phlegm, even strep throat infections, as well as for rheumatic ailments, pain, and bruising from trauma. Patent remedies used for anything else must be diagnosed by a herbal practitioner, even tonics; for instance, do you need to tonify the qi, blood, yin, or yang? It is important to consult a herbal practitioner if you intend to use a patent remedy over a long period of time, such as a long-term tonic for an elderly person. Tonics should not be taken during an episode of cold or flu (Wind Invasion), as they tend to drive Wind deeper into the body.

Chinese herbs are hardly ever used singly—they are used mainly in combination with other herbs to make a balanced prescription. Some of the most commonly used herbs involved in those prescriptions follow in the next section. Each herb also has a particular range of dosages assigned to it—when comparing it to other herbs in a prescription, one can see whether it is used in an average dose, or whether one would use a smaller or larger dose in that prescription. Both these features mean that it is important to consult a qualified herbalist before using the herbs, either in a herbal pharmacy or privately through your state’s Chinese Medicine Association.

CHILDREN AND BABIES

Chinese herbal medicine can be very effective for children and babies. Children’s dosages are usually half or a quarter of those given for adults. There are ways of encouraging children to take the herbs, either by involving them in the preparation of the prescription, or by sweetening it with honey, or by offering a cookie afterward! There are certain herbal powders especially formulated for babies.

PREGNANCY

Many herbs are expressly forbidden in pregnancy, whilst some are especially good for pregnant women. There are several which may help to prevent miscarriage. Take only herbs prescribed by a qualified practitioner when pregnant.

CAUTION

Some patent remedies containing animal products may still be sold. They are now illegal in this country, so please check with the pharmacy first. Always go to a reputable practitioner (consult your state’s Chinese Medicine Association). Some herbal patents for insomnia and mental disturbance contain mineral substances, such as oyster shell or magnetite. In excess, these can cause indigestion, so use them for a limited amount of time and find alternative prescriptions.

SAFETY NOTE

If prescribing herbs over a long period of time, it is important that the practitioner pays particular attention to any liver or kidney symptoms which may arise during the course of the treatment. A very few individuals may experience idiosyncratic reactions to herbs—these are usually due to genetic abnormalities and the herbs would not cause a reaction in most other individuals. Regular liver function tests are sometimes advised by practitioners, but their value in these cases is still a matter of debate.