Are Chinese herbal formulas safe?
When a professional with the appropriate training prescribes Chinese herbs, they are very safe, as opposed to pharmaceuticals, which can be very toxic to the body and result in many unpleasant “side-effects”, even when prescribed correctly. The strength of Chinese herbal medicine is that each formula is created to match the specific qualities of the patient, and modified as the patients condition changes. When the herbs are in balance with the patient it maximizes the healing potential, and minimizes the risk of “side-effects.
Chinese herbs are generally safe. The herbs used are strictly tested for pesticides, heavy metals and toxins. Chinese herbs can be taken in the form of a raw brew tea, granules, powders or pills. Chinese herbs are plant, animal and mineral based. Most of the herbs in the Chinese pharmacopoeia are plant based such as leaves, berries, stems, roots, bark, and seeds etc. Chinese herbal formulas can usually be taken in conjunction with western medications as long as they are consumed at least an hour apart. With this in mind, it is important to tell your acupuncturist what western medications you take and when the medications or dosages change. It is also important to let your acupuncturist know if or when you do become pregnant as some herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy.
