Herbal Medicine

Theory, Formulations, and Applications

TCM Herbal Medicine Database, Theory, Clinical Applications, and Resources

Chinese Medicine is comprised of a few principle components - acupuncture, herbal medicine, tuina massage, diet/lifestyle habits, and associated techniques such as cupping and moxibustion. Our Herbal Medicine section explores both individual herbs and their use in combinations, or "formulas".

This is an extensive subject and no single source can convey the full breadth and depth of Herbal Medicine. Accordingly, this section is a work in progress.

Our individual TCM herb section has a complete alphabetical view, or you may view by by functional grouping, by channel influences, or by taste / temperature properties. We also have some of the more common precautions noted.


TCM Herb of the Day

Kelp (Kun Bu)kun bu (kelp)
  • Reduces phlegm, softens hardness - nodules in the neck, fullness in the chest due to phlegm.
  • Promotes urination, reduces swelling - lower extremity edema (adjunctive herb).

Our TCM formula section has a complete alphabetical listing of most commonly used formulas. Clinically, formulas are more commonly chosen for their functions, accordingly we have listings by functional groupings as well.


TCM Formula of the Day

Schizonepeta and Siler Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences (Jing Fang Bai Du Wan)chai hu (thorowax root, bupleurum)
  • Early stages of disease arising from wind cold damp - common cold, flu, bronchitis, mumps.
  • Early stages of skin diseases - boils, carbuncles, eczema, dermatitis with the right underlying factors.
  • Mastitis arising from cold/damp.

Our Herbal Shop has an alphabetical listing of the formulas we most often use with our own patients. We strongly recommend consulting directly with a practitioner before attempting herbal therapy.


Herbal Product of the Day

An Shen Bu Xin Wan - HBW (9.99)shi chang pu (sweetflag rhizome)
  • Insomnia and palpitations
  • Anxiety, possible difficulty with concentration
  • Irritibility and restlessness
  • Tinnitus

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