Have you been taking conventional medications for a host of different ailments without much success? Do you often experience nausea, dizziness, and a bunch of other side effects that usually go along with regular commercial medications?
It’s with this in mind that many Australians opt to take traditional Chinese herbal medicines as part of the regular treatments of acupuncture Brighton locals often opt for. Combining Chinese medicine as part of your holistic medical approach ensures that you’re getting a treatment that has been specifically customised to suit your unique needs.
What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Essentially, Chinese herbal medicine is one of the many treatments that fall under the Traditional Chinese medicine umbrella. Formulas are made of a wide variety of different herbs that can be blended to treat a specific ailment.
The blend prescribed by your Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner will depend on the symptoms, age, and stage of illness or ailment. Chinese herbal medications are available in different options such as:
- Granule herbs which get stirred into hot water and then drunk like black coffee
- Liquid herbal extracts which you will take as prescribed
- Herbs in pill form similar to supplements
- Creams, scrubs, and washes that contain the prescribed herb
TCM can be prescribed in conjunction with your regular prescription or as a replacement. However, this should only be done under the advisement of your regular healthcare provider. It’s essential to discuss your existing conditions and medications with your TCM practitioner at your first appointment.
Many Reasons to Embrace a More Holistic Approach
There are several positive reasons why you should consider adding TCM to your holistic approach to health care. Of course, results may vary depending on the type of ailment you’re trying to treat. The most common benefits of this type of medicine are highlighted below.
- Herbal TCM is Easily Customisable
One of the biggest reasons Chinese herbal medicine is so popular is that it’s made up of different herbal formulas that have been blended to tailor your unique needs. That means you’re not buying a one-size-fits-all bottle of pills for a generic approach to your ailment.
When your TCM practitioner creates your blend, they can add the herbs necessary to treat different ailments. Having one medication treat multiple ailments is always more effective than taking a long list of medications that don’t always guarantee the desired results.
- Chinese Herbal Medicines are Known to Boost Energy
No matter what type of lifestyle you lead, you will more than likely benefit from higher energy levels. Chinese herbal medicines have been known to boost energy as the various formulas improve sleep and digestion. This in turn enables the patient to feel better, which also improves overall mood. When you feel better, you also tend to have more energy.
- Can Improve Sleeping Patterns
Several surveys done on patients taking Chinese herbal medicines have shown that these individuals have developed considerably better sleeping patterns. Not only do they find it easier to fall asleep, but they tend to stay asleep for longer. This means that anyone with chronic insomnia or irregular sleeping patterns could benefit from the right blend of Chinese herbal medicine.
- Promotes Digestion
Many people often resort to acupuncture in an attempt to deal with digestive issues or improve gut health. This is because acupuncture has been designed to trigger the body’s “rest and digest” response.
Your TCM practitioner will often elect to combine your acupuncture treatment with an herbal formula that has been tailored to reduce regular IBS symptoms such as gas, bloating, and intense cramping after a meal. If you’re suffering from IBS or other digestive issues, it’s always a good idea to mention this at your next acupuncture session.
- Significant Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The herbs used in Chinese herbal blends have high levels of anti-inflammatory effects. This means they can help alleviate issues such as muscle spasms, cramps, and even fever. Many herbal mixtures have also been known to break down acute and subacute inflammation and increase IgM-antibodies required in cell regeneration and immune improvement.
- Little to Zero Side Effects
One of the top reasons an individual may want to stop using conventional medications has to do with the many side effects that go along with them. Side effects from conventional medications often include anything from headaches to impaired cognitive function.
With herbal Chinese medicines, there are very few, if any, side effects. This is because the medications are herbal, and your practitioner will also create blends to offset negative effects. For instance, a herb used for headaches may cause bloating, so your practitioner will add a herb to counter this.
Final Thoughts
There are several good reasons to consider traditional Chinese herbs if you’re looking for a more holistic approach to your overall healthcare. You can look forward to increased energy, better-sleeping patterns and a more tailored medicine to suit your individual needs. With so many people advocating the positive results of Chinese herbs, it may be well worth considering!
