Stabilization is important, so a TCM practitioner would not take a patient off their drugs. Many patients begin feeling better and then meet with their doctor to discuss prescription changes. Drugs used for hypertension, cholesterol, or blood thinners for stroke or brain injury patients serve a critical purpose in the patient's life and are addressed very appropriately. A TCM practitioner is familiar with drug interactions and herbs so caution and airing on the side of prudence is always respected and warranted.
The herbs I use are FDA compliant and of very high grade. They are dispensed in powder or capsule form. I give the patient a list of what is in the herbs and I explain the functions with them. There are no proprietary rights on herbs - they are plants - and when used properly they can have tremendous positive impact. But the FDA and the AMA know little about the Chinese herbs and if there's no profit to be made by the drug industry, they simply have no interest in saying anything positive about them and they usually get a bad rap. When used wisely, in the right situations, they are amazing as patients will attest. Everything from sinus infections, bronchitis, headaches, pain and injuries, digestive issues, menstrual problems, infertility, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and stress are common problems successfully addressed with a combination of acupuncture and herbs.
Is it important for someone to have both acupuncture and herbs?
Every patient is different and I recommend what I think is appropriate for each individual given their level commitment and their goals; these are discussed in your initial meeting when we go through your history. We talk about how TCM can best help you. Sometimes it is just acupuncture, or just herbs, or a combination. It is always tailored to fit your best needs.
If I wanted to buy herbs from you and was not geographically able, what would you do?
