In addition to the herbs listed above, we have included nutritional information on a variety of vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements.
Herbal Medicine: What it Is, What it Does
Herbal medicine is an integral component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is also one of the oldest (and most popular) forms of health care. Studies have shown that as much as 40 percent of all American adults use herbal products, with the amount of money spent on herbal remedies in this country each year in the tens of billions. The use of herbal medicine is even higher overseas, with some countries reporting a usage rate of 75 percent or greater.
The term "herbal medicine" refers to the use of a plant’s seed, berries, roots, leaves, bark or flowers for medicinal purposes. While the scientific study of herbs in the United States began just over two centuries ago, herbs and botanicals have been used to treat a wide range of health problems in Asia for thousands of years.
When used to facilitate healing in chronic, ongoing problems, herbal medicine has a great deal to offer. Studies have shown that herbal products can treat a variety of conditions, including colds, digestive disorders, insomnia, headaches, arthritis, skin disorders, asthma, and a host of other problems usually treated with pharmaceuticals and prescription medications.
Listed below are some of the most commonly used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. To learn about each herb, click on its name. You will be taken to a separate page that describes what the herb is; what conditions it can treat; the recommended dosage; and any known side-effects or drug interactions.
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