A classic Chinese herbal formula is a form of Chinese herbology. This means herbs are combined with greater efficiency than individual herbs. Students of traditional Chinese medicine learn these herbal formulas. Students will learn how to adapt one Chinese herbal formula to the needs of an individual patient. A single Chinese herbal formula can include patent medicine and can include Kampo.

How does a Chinese herbal formula differ from Kampo? Kampo is traditional Japanese herbal medicine. However, Japanese herbalists do not use formulas to treat individuals on a case by case basis. This is how a Chinese herbal formula varies from a Japanese one and Japanese formulas may substitute the plants within a Chinese herbal formula for plants found inside their native Japan. An herbal formula in Japan is much more standard, than a Chinese herbal formula. A Chinese herbal formula differs from a Japanese one in that the Chinese believe in treating the individual on a case by case basis, not as part of standardized medicine.

What is a popular Chinese herbal formula or two? One popular Chinese herbal formula is used to help patients get to sleep and is called Anshui Wan or calm sleep pills. Another Chinese herbal formula is Anshen Buxin Wan or calm spirit, tonify heart pills. There is even a Chinese herbal formula to preserve harmony, called Baohe Wan. To help with bone and tendon problems, there is the Chinese herbal formula, Kanggu Zengsheng Wan, in pill form. Even one Chinese herbal formula contains a complex mixture of Chinese herbs - said to help the body.

What is in a Chinese herbal formula, such as Kanggu Zengsheng Wan? Kanggu Zengsheng Wan specifically includes a complex blend of Chinese herbs including: Caulis Spatholobi, Herba Cistanches (steamed), Herba Epimedii, Semen Raphani (stir-baked), and Rhizoma Drynariae. In all, nine different drugs make up this Chinese herbal formula. This black, sweet and slightly astringent, pill is only about 3 grams. However, it is said to relieve pain, help blood circulation and strengthen bones and tendons. This Chinese herbal formula is said to be used when there is cervical syndrome or spur. This is one of many herbal medicines mixed with potent herbs in small doses.

Is a Chinese herbal formula safe to use two or three times a day? Patrons must follow the directions on their Chinese herbal formula. However, each Chinese herbal formula contains different ingredients and is tailored to the individual. Since the FDA does not regulate herbal medicines, this Chinese herbal formula has not been proven to be unsafe. Thus, there are not any FDA studies proving that ingesting or taking a Chinese herbal formula is harmful to individuals. Since each Chinese herbal formula is mixed in small potent doses, patients must take only what is prescribed, in the manner that it is listed on the packaging. Otherwise, the Chinese herbologists can not be held responsible for drug reactions or guarantee the medicine will have the intended effect on an individual.