Using Chinese Herb Liquid Extracts

Liquid extracts or granules? Now that many Chinese herbalists are moving away from using raw, bulk herbs when prescribing for their patients, the question often arises as to what other forms of herb administration are available and how they compare. There are many factors to consider including potency, patient compliance, convenience, taste, product availability and shelf life. Practitioners that use granules/powders seem to be pleased with the results they get with their patients, but so do those using liquid extracts.   Read more...

 

Herbal Medicine Past and Future

It is clear to me and others in the AOM profession that what is necessary at the present time is to create a recognized non-drug status for herbal medicine. We must bring herbal medicine and specifically Chinese herbal medicine into the pantheon of recognized conventional medical options for all Americans.  Read more...

 

The Assessment and Management of Upper Extremity Epicondylitis

Upper extremity epicondylitis is known commonly as a “tennis elbow” when the lateral epicondyle is compromised and referred to as “pitchers elbow” when the medial epicondyle is impaired. These conditions are frequently encountered in the clinic and often are stubborn in their recovery. The manner of approach and efficiency of the acupuncture treatment can determine the success or failure of the outcome.  Read more...

 

Planting Herbs for Food

Shan Yao, or Chinese wild yam (Dioscorea opposita, Dioscorea oppoistifolia, Dioscorea batata) is both a nutritious food and a medicinal herb, tonifying the Spleen, Lung and Kidney qi. The dried herb can be bought and used in cooking or in raw herb formulas, but you can also find the fresh tubers in many Asian grocery stores. Better yet, grow the hardy, easily propagated perennial in your garden!  Read more...