In some countries, acupuncture can be performed several times a week to address patient concerns. In the US, this is less common. One way to ensure that people get regular treatment without compromising their schedule is to add Herbal Medicine. Your practitioner pairs a custom herbal formula with your current acupuncture treatment. Taking herbs offers some of the benefits of getting multiple acupuncture treatments a day! There are also certain conditions that are best resolved with the combination of herbs and acupuncture.
Over more than a decade of working with patients, we have found that people are most compliant with herbs when they’re offered in a pill form. While we can sometimes use raw herbs or powders that are made into teas, these are less convenient, time consuming, and the taste can be off-putting. Most people do best with pills and we find them to be just as effective clinically.
Chinese herbal medicine is sometimes discussed as music in plant form. I think this says so much about how the medicine works. Think about resonance with a musical instrument. Strumming the E string on one guitar will cause the E string of a nearby guitar to start vibrating at the same frequency. Similarly, ingesting a certain combination of herbs that have specific properties will allow a resonance within the body, returning it to its natural, healthy frequency.
Ask if adding Chinese Herbal Medicine would benefit your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will it take for the herbs to start working?
The time it takes to see results from herbs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the specific condition being treated and the individual’s overall health. Here’s a general idea of what to expect and consider:
- For Acute Conditions -short-term issues like a common cold – results might be noticed within a few days to a week.
- For Chronic Conditions – long-standing concerns – it may take several weeks to a few months to observe noticeable improvements.
- Individual Variation: People respond differently to treatments. Some might see quicker results, while others may need more time.
- Combination with Other Treatments: Sometimes, herbs are used in conjunction with other therapies, such as acupuncture or Western medicine, which can affect the timeline of seeing results.
Q: How will I know if the herbs are working?
Knowing if the herbal formula is working can involve observing various signs and changes. Here’s what to look out for:
- Symptom Improvement: One of the most direct indicators that herbs are working is a reduction in the severity or frequency of symptoms. For example, if you’re taking herbs for pain relief, a decrease in pain intensity is a positive sign.
- Energy Levels: An increase in energy and a general sense of well-being can indicate that the herbs are having a positive effect on the body.
- Sleep Quality: Improved sleep patterns, both in terms of quality and duration, can be a sign that the herbs are working, especially if sleep disturbances were part of the original condition.
- Digestive Health: Better digestion, including regular bowel movements and reduced bloating, can reflect the efficacy of herbs targeted at digestive issues.
- Mental and Emotional Balance: A more balanced mood, reduced anxiety or stress, and a clearer mind can indicate the herbs are positively influencing mental and emotional health.
If you’re unsure or not noticing any changes after a reasonable period, it’s a good idea to consult with your practitioner for a reassessment of the treatment plan. They may adjust the herbal formula or suggest other therapies to enhance effectiveness. Keep the following consdiderations in mind:
- Consistency Is Key: It is important to use the herbs consistently as the effects can be cumulative over time.
- Regular Follow-Ups: Regular consultations with your practitioner can help determine progress, as they can assess changes through pulse, tongue diagnosis, or other methods.
- Personal Awareness: Pay attention to your own body’s signals—sometimes the smallest changes can indicate progress.
Q: Can I use the herbs with other medications I may be taking?
Using herbal formulas in conjunction with other medications can be complex and should be approached with care. Here are a few key points to consider:
- Potential Interactions: Some herbs may interact with medications, either enhancing or reducing their effects, or causing side effects. It’s important to tell your practitioner of any medications you are taking so they are aware of these potential interactions. We largely work with Evergreen Herbs and they have amazing resources for patients and providers to help assess any potential risks. To limit any potential risk of interaction, we often recommend taking herbs 1-2 hours away from any other medication and supplements when possible. As always, discuss this in more detail with your provider.
- Complete Disclosure: Provide a complete list of all medications and supplements you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements.
- Observation: Monitor your body for any unusual symptoms or side effects, especially when starting a new formula.
By discussing the combination of herbs and medications with your acupuncturist, you can feel confident to safely integrate them into your daily routine!