For centuries, Chinese herbalists mixed several herbs, practicing on themselves instead of animals. What herbalists found was that not just one Chinese herb, but several combined could help fight several different medical conditions and diseases. These traditional Chinese medicines use a certain Chinese herb combined with other herbs has been practiced for centuries. Some of uses for these herbs include treatment for heart conditions, kidney diseases, liver and gallbladder diseases, skin conditions and neurological diseases.

Individuals should take care when using certain other medicines with a specific Chinese herb For instance, St, John's Wart should not be combined with other medicines such as cholesterol medications, other over-the-counter vitamins, certain pain medications and other prescription drugs. Combining this certain Chinese herb with other medication can block the effectiveness of the other medication or lead to serious, life-threatening drug reactions. Those who use a certain Chinese herb, such as St. John's Wort, should make sure they receive medication from a trusted source. One Chinese herb (such as St. John's Wort) can be made by several different companies and have varying degrees of Chinese herb inside a pill or capsule form. Not all Chinese medicine or every Chinese herb is bound by the same regulations as U.S. prescription medicines are.

How does a Chinese herbalist make a Chinese herb safe to consume? A Chinese herb is made safe for patrons by heating the herb over low heat. The heat may help kill certain bacteria. But, the low heat concentration also means a Chinese herb is more potent. The Chinese herb may be more effective than traditional drugs used to treat other diseases because it is more potent. Higher heat content has not lowered the Chinese herb's concentration to treat various symptoms. Thus, less of a Chinese herb may be used to treat a patient, than using a more traditional medicine. This low heat concentration can be used for a single Chinese herb or a combination of various herbs. The low heat allows for the active ingredient in the Chinese herb to remain concentrated, whereas higher temperatures may kill an herb's active ingredient or make it less potent.

How do I know what Chinese herb or herbs work best for me? To find out what Chinese herb or herbal combination works best, individuals should find a doctor who has knowledge in Chinese medicine. A patient's family physician may be able to provide a recommendation. Patients should ask to see the doctor's credentials. When balanced correctly, this herbal therapy can help treat a variety of body issues and multiple symptoms. Find a reputable doctor who can prescribe what Chinese herb or combination of herbs will best treat your individual situation. Because each individual patient will respond different to a Chinese herb or herb combination, treatment is often tailored to the patient on a case-by-case basis.

Is buying a Chinese herb or herbal combination expensive? The cost per Chinese herb or herbal combination varies depending on the symptoms and disease needing treatment. Typically, a two-month supply of a Chinese herb or herbs can around $299. A four-month supply can typically cost about $499. If comparing this to the cost of a month's long supply of prescription from a doctor who practices traditional medicine, the cost for a Chinese herb or herbal combination is generally cheaper. For instance, a patient may have to spend more than $150 a month on heart medicine if they are taking prescription medicine. To buy a Chinese herb or herbal combination, the cost may be only slightly more, if not the same price… depending on the heart disease, at around $199 per month.