Chinese Herbal Medicine is itself a powerful method of healing.  Western drugs often control symptoms, but do not alter the diease process (antibiotics eliminate bacteria but do not improve a person's resistance to infection;  diuretics rid excess fluid without improving kidney function).  Chinese Herbal Medicine treat the underlying condition as defined by traditional diagnosis and rarely cause unwanted side-effects.   

Just as soil becomes depleted through overuse, so the Qi, Moisture, and Blood are eroded by overwork, emotional tension, mental strain, too much or to little exercise, and inadequate diet or rest, impairing the capacity of the Organ Systems to do their job.  Herbs assist the Organ Systems in the performance of their tasks.  Particular herbs enhance the capacity of the Heart to move the blood and soothe the mind, the Spleen to manage digestion and fluid metabolism, the Lung to handle respiration and the body's immunity, the Liver to maintain resilient emotions and strong limbs, and the Kidneys to sustain sexual and regenerative power.  Some herbal formulas address conditions such as colds, allergies, inflammations or cramps with dramatic and immediate results, while others fortify body reserves over time. 

Chinese herbs are usually combined in formulas to enhance their individual properties and actions.  Symptoms and signs are matched with therapeutic effects, reflecting the particular conditions and needs of each patient.  Tonic formulas restore eroded body resources; regulating formulas decongest Qi, Moisture and Blood, relieving discomfort; and purging formulas eliminate adverse climates, inviting clear weather.   Formulas are available in a variety of forms:  raw herbs to be boiled into tea, liquid bottled extracts, ground herbs packaged in pills and powders.  Herbs, more like food than drugs, can supplement our diet and fortify our constitution as well as prevent or remedy ailments. Sometimes long term use of herbs is desirable whereas extended use of pharmaceuticals would not be healthy.