Chinese herbal medicine aims to reverse unhealthy imbalances and patterns, in order to achieve harmony within the body so healing can occur. Changes in the body should be expected while taking the herbs. These changes may vary according the your diagnosis, body constitution, chronicity of your condition, and variable responses to treatment. These changes may include diminishment or cessation of symptoms, increased energy, better digestion and sleep, or a regulated menstrual cycle. In any case, it is important to note the changes that are occuring, so that your doctor is able to assess whether the diagnosis and herbal prescription are right for you.

Raw Chinese Herbs are compilations of uncooked herbs, which require cooking at home. Their effect on the body is immediate because they are highly potent and easily assimilated. This form of herbal medicine is more effective and very individualized.

Granulated Herbs are dried decoctions of raw herbal formulas. They are convenient because they do not need to be cooked. They have 80% of the potency of raw herbal formulas. They tend to be "time released" since they breakdown and are assimilated over time. They can be individualized and are appropriate for long-term care.

Patent Medicines are prepared herbal formulas usually made into small pills. There are also syrups, plasters, and lozenges available. The pills are considered to have 60% of the potency of raw herbal formulas. They are rather inexpensive and must be taken in fairly large doses, such as 8-16 small pills per dose. They are also not adjustable to each patient, but the patent formulas are very standard, traditional medicines with an extensive collection, so it is possible to find a very accurate formula. Patents are chosen because of their low cost and convenience, and they are appropriate for acute or chronic conditions that are not serious.

To prepare and take loose herbs:

1. Empty one package of dry herbs that your doctor prescribed into a 2- or 3-quart pot – ceramic, glass, or stainless steel only. Do not use iron or aluminum pots. Cover the herbs with water to about one inch above the herbs. Let soak for 20-30 minutes.

2. Bring the herbs to a boil and fast boil for about 10 minutes with the lid off. Then turn the soup down to a simmer and slow boil for about 30 minutes. During this time, the soup will probably boil down to about 1 cup. Some herbs may require a different procedure, so please listen to your doctor’s recommendation.

3. Drain the herbs through a strainer into a bowl.

4. Take the wet herbs and repeat the cooking procedure to make your medicinal soup again.

5. Drain the herbs through a strainer into the same bowl as in step 3. Mix well and drink 1/2 of the soup for one dosage, hot or warm but not cold.

6. You can store the rest of your medicinal soup in a glass container with a cover in the refrigerator. Reheat and drink twice a day.

To prepare and take powder herbs:

Powder herbs are made in two different ways. One way is when the raw, loose herbs are crushed into granules. The other way is when a special technique is used to make a highly concentrated medicinal soup that is dried into granules. Based on your diagnosis, your doctor will mix the powder herbs together for your prescription.

To take these herbs, using the spoon we provide, place 2-3 level spoonfuls into a cup and add about 1/3 cup of hot water to the herbs. Stir until dissolved and drink.

To prepare and take patent herbs: