CHINESE MEDICINE
MELBOURNE
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
Chinese herbal medicine is generally regarded as the primary treatment modality for internal medicine conditions within the Chinese medicine tradition. Chinese herbal medicines are primarily of plant origin (leaves, twigs, barks, roots, flowers, seeds); but can also include some minerals and some animal products. No endangered or illegally traded wildlife products are used. Animal products are easily substituted with plant ingredients when desired.
Herbs used in Chinese medicine possess various properties, actions, temperatures, and flavours that dictate their therapeutic indications. The power of Chinese herbal medicine lies in the ability to devise a precise combination of herbs (a formula) to address a specific pattern of disharmony for a specific person’s body, constitution, and pathology at a given time. When prescribed appropriately the herbs work synergistically to strengthen and reinforce one-another. In many cases herbs are prepared in a very specific way (for example; dry fried, honey fried, vinegar fried) in order to augment the action of a herb or to modify it in some way to achieve a certain therapeutic intent. Chinese herbal medicine formulas are continually re-assessed and/or re-adjusted on each visit based on how a person’s condition is progressing.
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE FORMS
Raw Herbs
These are dried herbs in their most natural state. This is the strongest form of Chinese herbal medicine available and involves cooking up a bag of raw herbs at home into a decoction and then drinking the liquid. Herbs prescribed in raw form allow complete customisation of the formula to the individual, as well as the ability to prepare specific herbs in particular ways. As a passionate herbalist I place a strong focus on using raw herbs to maximise the efficacy of clinical outcomes.
Granules
These are concentrated herbal extracts that have been dried and processed into a water dissolvable powder. Single herbal extracts are mixed together to create a formula; which you simply dissolve in warm water. They are therefore a more convenient option.
Patent Pills
These are pre-made formulas prepared in the form of a small black pill. They are not able to be tailored for the individual and are not as potent as the other methods. I tend to use pills infrequently for these reasons.
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE FAQ
How do I receive my Chinese herbal medicine formula?
I utilise the services of a local herbal dispenser in Melbourne (The Herb Grove) to prepare your herbs on my behalf. Once I have written your herbal prescription I send it off to the dispenser and they prepare it according to my instructions and send it directly to you (whether you are in Melbourne or anywhere Australia wide).
What type of Chinese herbal medicines do you use?
I have a strong preference for encouraging the use of the strongest form of Chinese herbal medicine possible; using raw herbs. When people cannot tolerate raw herbs I use granules or occasionally patent pills.
How do I cook Chinese herbs?
You will be provided with cooking instructions at your first consultation.
How often do I need to have a Chinese herbal medicine consultation?
This will depend on your condition and its duration, however in most cases after the initial consultation two follow-up appointments are required each two weeks apart. This allows us to assess how you’ve progressed and to fine-tune your formula. After this first month, return consultations can start to be spaced out a little further. A full treatment plan will be discussed with you during your initial consultation.
Can I take Chinese herbal medicine while taking prescription medications?
Yes; when taken under the supervision of a registered Chinese medicine herbalist. Chinese herbal medicine is recommended to be taken at least two hours away from prescription medications.
Can I take Chinese herbal medicine while travelling overseas?
Yes. I usually prescribe Chinese herbal medicine in granule/powder form for travelling as they do not require cooking or refrigeration (and are smaller in size), so are much more convenient while on the go. I provide you with a letter to accompany the herbs outlining the ingredients and their medicinal purpose, should there be any questions asked along your journey.
Can I take Chinese herbal medicine if I am vegan/vegetarian?
Most definitely. Most herbs are of plant origin and all formulas can be made 100% vegan friendly.
Are any endangered species used in Chinese herbal medicines?
I do not use any endangered species in my practice.
How do I arrange a Chinese herbal medicine consultation?
To make an enquiry or booking, please refer to my contact page.
CHINESE MEDICINE CONSULTATIONS IN MELBOURNE AND AUSTRALIA WIDE
I treat people with Chinese herbal medicine as a stand-alone treatment anywhere in Australia online via telehealth (or telephone call). For those in Melbourne, I provide in-home mobile acupuncture services which can be combined with Chinese herbal medicine. For details regarding the areas I service in Melbourne please refer to my Fees page.