The use of plants as medicines is steeped in thousands of years of tradition and can be found in all societies in every part of the world. In countries such as China or India traditional healing therapies are used by up to 60 per cent of the population as primary treatments. What is Chinese Herbal Medicine? Chinese herbalism forms part of the wider practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which also incorporates acupuncture, massage, dietary therapy and mind-body exercises such as tai chi. All of these disciplines are based on the notion of qi (pronounced “chee”), the body’s life-force energy. If qi is out of balance, illness is more likely to occur. In Chinese herbal medicine, the practitioner aims to bring harmony to the body through the use of treatments in the form of tea, soups, pills or dried powders. These are often used in conjunction with other therapies such as acupuncture. Five elements Chinese medicine practitioners prescribe herbs based on five elements – earth, fire, metal, water and wood – which correspond to particular parts of the body. For example, earth is associated with the spleen, stomach, mouth and muscles. The belief is that all these elements must be working in harmony to maintain good health. The practitioner will determine any imbalances by a thorough examination of all aspects of your mental, physical and emotional health. Yin and yang The opposing energies of yin and yang are equally significant. Yin represents internal, cold, passive and feminine. Yang is external, warm, active and masculine. Harmony and health are only achieved when there is balance between the polar opposites. If you have an excess of yin, for example, you may be susceptible to chills, colds or fatigue. Too much yang may leave you open to fever or headaches. Treatment Chinese herbal medicine uses the same process of diagnosis as other forms of TCM. The practitioner will be particularly interested in the appearance of your skin, eyes and hair, looking for signs of any imbalance. The tone of your voice, how you breathe and even your smell will be noted. Your tongue will be carefully examined for colour, texture and coating as it is considered a good indicator of health. Perhaps the most intricate part of diagnosis is the measuring of pulses. These pulses, which are said to be in six locations at three depths on each wrist, are used to determine the quality of your qi as well as to pick up any imbalances in your yin and yang. You could expect your first consultation to take at least one hour. Once the practitioner has made an assessment of your state of health, he or she will most likely prescribe a combination of herbs (anywhere from two to 20) to address your particular complaint and symptoms. The herbs are usually boiled in water and made into a concentrated soup or tea. For straightforward ailments, a standard formula may suffice. These are usually available in the form of pills, powder or teas. Origins The ancient healing system of Chinese herbal medicine originated more than 4000 years ago during the Han Dynasty. The fundamental principles were laid down in a text called “The Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine” around 2500 BC. Over time, the system has developed and been added to, but many of the core principles remain the same today. Benefits An Australian study has shown Chinese herbal medicine is an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. There is also some evidence to suggest it is helpful in the treatment of asthma, arthritis, cancer, infertility, high blood pressure, lupus, breast lumps, Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Cautions Contaminants such as lead, cadmium and mercury, as well as pharmaceuticals such as steroids, diuretics and aspirin, have been detected in some imported Chinese herbs. Make sure your practitioner is reputable, qualified and experienced and check the source of the herbs. If in doubt, contact the Australian Traditional Medicine Society or the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association. Both organisations provide a national referral service.
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