Oriental Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine forms part of one of the oldest medical systems in the world and is widely used in the Far East, often combined with Acupuncture therapy. It is based on a very broad 'pattern of disharmony' and not 'symptoms' in isolation. Polypharmacy (the combining of differing ingredients) is the mainstay of Chinese Herbal Medicine; the degree to which different medicinals are combined will determine the clinical efficacy. 'Synergy' is an important factor.
Herbal Medicine is based on Health and not disease; as evidenced by the large amount of formulae (ancient prescription), which serve to strengthen and protect the body and its many systems.
Through understanding health, one can understand dis-ease.
Formulae are prescribed on an individualized pattern diagnosis. This means that a patient receives a 'tailor-made herbal prescription' aimed at treating both the symptom or disease and also their individual pattern. Such 'patterns of disharmony' are made up of a person's signs and physical constitution. Chinese Herbal Medicine, when practised correctly, is free of side affects and nourishes the mind, body and spirit naturally.
Health Benefits:
In 2002 the World Health Organisation (WHO) carried out research and produced a list of 'disease' categories for which Traditional Chinese Medicine has demonstrable benefits:
- Relieve acute and chronic pain caused by such ailments as:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Joint and muscle sprain/strain
- Headaches
- Facial Pain (including TMJ dysfunction)
- Post-operative pain - Neurological disorders such as: Sciatica, Bell's Palsy, Polyneuropathy
- Insomnia
- To assist withdrawal from addictions and dependencies, such as: Smoking, Drugs, Alcohol
Other ailments include:
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Stroke Rehabilitation
- Premenstrual Symptoms (PMS)
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome