Chinese Herbal Medicine
Overview and FAQ by Mary Cetan
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the world's oldest and continually practiced, professional medicine. Herbal medicine is the main treatment method within TCM. Although acupuncture was the first Chinese treatment method to gain wide acceptance in the West, Chinese herbal medicine is quickly establishing itself as a popular therapy due to its effectiveness.
It is effective because each formula is a combination of several herbs that work synergistically, each to achieve a specific result in the body. When the herbal formula is matched with a patient's Traditional Chinese medical diagnosis, the patient is supported to regain health in a way that is unique to their body.
How do I know if a practitioner is professionally trained in Chinese herbal medicine? The National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists & Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) has created a certification process for Chinese herbal medicine. Practitioners who have been certified in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have earned Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (DOM) after their name. Although Chinese herbs are safe when professionally prescribed by a trained, knowledgeable practitioner, they are strong medicine nevertheless. Therefore, it is important that a practitioner be adequately schooled and experienced in their use. A prospective patient should feel free to ask about the training and credentials of a potential practitioner.
Can pregnant women take Chinese herbs? Yes, if prescribed by a professional practitioner. There are a few Chinese herbal medicines that are contraindicated during pregnancy and, therefore, should not be taken. However, most of the Chinese herbs are safe and effective for use with nausea, constipation, fatigue, emotional swings, dizziness, vaginal bleeding, and other common problems associated with pregnancy. There is no danger to the developing fetus. There are specific formulas given to women after birthing that restore Qi (energy) and blood and greatly aid in a rapid recovery. Lactating mothers can take Chinese herbal medicine safely to encourage the flow of milk and to nourish and enhance health.
Can children take Chinese herbal medicine? Yes. Pediatrics is a specialty within TCM. Chinese herbal medicine treats the child for colic or night crying, eczema, diaper rash, fussiness, earaches, cough, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, fever, flu, colds and other childhood maladies. In general, children respond much quicker than adults to herbal medicine treatments because their systems are less complex and change more often.
How long does it take to see results with Chinese herbal medicine? In acute conditions, alleviation of some symptoms can be expected the same day. In chronic conditions, positive changes can be seen within a few days to a few weeks. However, healing from the chronic condition completely can take months. Generally, for every year a person has suffered from chronic health disease, it takes a month of treatment to rebalance the body and assist it to function normally.
TESTIMONIALS
I experienced allergies every winter in Florida. I tried everything including over-the-counter and prescription medications as well as allergy shots. After a program of Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxa therapy and nutritional therapy, I have been allergy free for four wonderful winters. - Joanne P., Retired, Nokomis, FL
I was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and began Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, and nutritional therapy. After a blood work retest, my thyroid tests are normal now. Mary Cetan, DOM, also helped me with bronchial asthma and after one acupuncture treatment, the wheezing disappeared in 1 1/2 days. - Kristin N., Retired, Sarasota, FL
Mary Cetan, D.O.M., has been a blessing in my life. She has helped me with female problems. I went to 3 different OB/Gyn's only to be told by the last doctor that she didn't know what else to do for me. Now, 3 months after being treated with, Chinese herbs, acupuncture, and nutritional therapy by Mary Cetan, D.O.M., both my body and outlook have started to heal. - Tricia R. Sarasota, FL