Chinese Medicine and the H1N1 Virus

Historically, Chinese herbal medicine has been very effective against viral infections, even new strains. A handful of Chinese herbs have been shown to have strong neuraminidase inhibitory effects, most notably, ku shen/sophora root and ban lan gen/isatis root . For these substances to be effective, it is important that they are administered at the right phase, with consideration to the patient’s pattern and in conjunction with other herbs in an appropriately matched formula.  Read more...

 

Wu Wei Zi: A Great Herb, A Little Caution

Wu wei zi (schisandra) is one of the most interesting herbs in common use by physicians of Chinese medicine. It would be surprising to find it missing in any Chinese herbal shop. Its listing in the Shennong Bencao Jing as well as in twelve formulas from the Shanghan Zabing Lun (the combined Shanghan Lun and Jin Gui Yao Lue), firmly anchors wu wei zi as a stalwart component of the Chinese herbal tradition…  Read more...

 

Clinical Materia Medica: Berberis

Jeremy Ross's new book reveals the unique character of 120 individual herbs and in this selection, he presents details on Berberis. Honoring three traditions, Chinese medicine, Western herbal practice, and modern pharmacological and clinical research, his perspective is essential for current practitioners seeking to bring the long history of herbal wisdom to contemporary clinical situations.  Read more...

 

Bone Broth for Health Building: Nourishing the Liver and Kidneys

Winter is the ideal time for nourishing the Kidneys, and soup is the perfect winter food. Bone broth is prepared in cultures around the world as both a tasty, healthful soup and an easily digested medicinal food. The prolonged cooking of bones in water results in a broth rich in nutritional constituents that promote strength, tonify blood, nourish in times of sickness and rehabilitation, and help to prevent bone and connective tissue disorders.   Read more...