Chinese Herbal Supplements

       Given my formal Chinese Herbal education, historically,  I have recommended raw Chinese herbal mixtures for patients who wish to avoid the pharma world.  This practice is complicated and often inconvenient for the modern day patient.  Accordingly, in recent years, I have recommended prepackaged Chinese Herbal Supplements for patients.  They are based on the ancient recipes with measured tablets or capsules.  I have a forty year (40) relationship with the founders and owners of both Health Concerns and Golden Flower Chinese Herbs.  I often steer patients to these sources for  honesty, quality and effectiveness.   

       However, if you wish to explore the complexity and beauty of Chinese Herb preparation, I have provided a sample general wellness remedy.  Please clear with your medical provider as most of you are taking multiple medications.  

       In the Shang Han Lun, Gui Zhi Tang is given as one of the very first formulas and it includes three (3) herbs: Gui Zhi, Bai Shao and Gan Cao.

The Classical Formula: 1.  Gui Zhi (cinnamon Twig) 3 liang (9 g)

                                            warms and unblcks channels;

                                            releases exterior wind-cold;

                                            harmonizes ying and wei qi when combined with Bai Shao;

                                       2.  Bai Shao (white Peony) 2 liang (6 g)

                                            nourishes the blood and Yin;

                                            preserves fluids, moderates Gui Zhi;

                                            alleviates pain and spasms with Gan Cao

                                        3.  Zhi Gan Cao  (honey fried licorice root) 2 liang (6g)

                                              harmonizes the formula;

                                              tonifies  Qi and moderates harshness of other herbs;

                                              relieves pain when paired with Bai Shao

                            Next to the kitchen

                                          1.   measure herbs by weight;

                                          2.   rinse herbs lightly to remove dust;

                                          3.   First decoction

                                                a.   place herbs in a ceramic or stainless steel pot;

                                                b.   add 4 cups of water-enough to cover the herbs by three 

                                                      inches;

                                                c.   bring to a gentle boil and then reduce to simmer;

                                                d.   simmer 20 minutes with the lid partially on;

                                                e.   strain the liquid into a separate container;

                                            4.   Second decoction

                                                 a.   add 3 cups of water to the herbs, simmer another 10                                                                  minutes;

                                                 b.   combine liquids and divide into two or three does a day.

                                             Drink warm or cold.

                                                Spring Wind Herbs of California sells raw quality controlled                                                    bulk herbs. 

          Remember, you are resposible for the safe and effective use of herbal formulas.