Herbal medicine is an integral component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is also one of the oldest (and most popular) forms of health care. Studies have shown that as much as 40% of all American adults use herbal products, with the amount of money spent on herbal remedies in this country each year in the tens of billions. The use of herbal medicine is even higher overseas, with some countries reporting a usage rate of 75% or greater.
The term "herbal medicine" refers to the use of a plant's seed, berries, roots, leaves, bark or flowers for medicinal purposes. While the scientific study of herbs in the United States began just over two centuries ago, herbs and botanical's have been used to treat a wide range of health problems in Asia for thousands of years.
When used to facilitate healing in chronic, ongoing problems, herbal medicine has a great deal to offer. Studies have shown that herbal products can treat a variety of conditions, including colds, digestive disorders, insomnia, headaches, arthritis, skin disorders, asthma, and a host of other problems usually treated with pharmaceuticals and prescription medications.
INSOMNIA
For example, patient complaints of insomnia are on the rise. Various factors contribute to insomnia in its three basic forms: 1) difficulty getting to sleep, 2) difficulty staying asleep once waking and 3) a combination of these two. Acupuncture itself can offer great relief for insomnia sufferers. However, most patients are not going to receive acupuncture treatments on a daily basis.
In most cases, I like to combine acupuncture with a customized herbal solution to address their problem. Chinese herbs can be used on a daily basis to treat many health conditions, especially insomnia. Chinese herbs are very affordable. A single daily dose of customized herbal remedies can cost less than a pack of cigarettes!
Prescription drugs to treat insomnia can be very effective. Unfortunately, all drugs have various side affects and may interact with other medications. Typical side affects of insomnia medications are: Diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness (including daytime drowsiness); "drugged" feeling; dry mouth; headache; nausea; nose or throat irritation; sluggishness; stomach upset; weakness.
More SEVERE side affects can include: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the hands, legs, mouth, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; throat closing; unusual hoarseness); abnormal thinking; behavior changes; chest pain; confusion; decreased coordination; difficulty swallowing or breathing; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; hallucinations; memory problems (e.g., memory loss); mental or mood changes (e.g., aggression, agitation, anxiety); new or worsening depression; severe dizziness; shortness of breath; suicidal thoughts or actions; vision changes.
Most patients want to minimize their number of medications, side affects and drug interactions. Integrating Chinese herbal medicine into their lifestyle can easily do this. The nice thing about Chinese herbs is they’re safe, effective and actually treat the root causes of a particular problem, as well as the symptoms. Chinese herbs help to restore balance to the body’s internal organs, regulate blood flow throughout the body, strengthen the immune system, increase energy, reduce stress and provide a deep sense of health and wellness.
