All medicine stems from traditional roots or herbs, why not go to the pure and clean source next time you are feeling under the weather? Eliza Grimes, L.Ac. Acupuncturist & Herbal Medicine Woman shares her tips;
People ask me all the time about Chinese herbs. I am an herbalist as much as I am an acupuncturist and believe it is important to combine both modalities in the treatment of many common complaints. Chinese herbs are a great way to take your treatments home with you, which can be imperative for those with busy schedules and/or financial limitations. So I thought I would give a quick “Common Chinese Herbs 101”
5 Chinese Herbs You Should Know About:
1. Perillae Leaf (zi su ye): This herb is used to treat food poisoning (particularly from contaminated fish) and treats nausea and vomiting due to morning sickness. I bet you have seen this herb and didn’t even know it! It is often served alongside your plate of sushi (it has a minty smell).
2. Cinnamon Bark: (rou gui) Aside from tasting nice, this herb is hot, pungent and sweet, and has an ability to warm the interior to expel cold, increase energy and activate blood circulation.
3.Field Mint: (bo he) Mint is a wonderful herb in treating the early stages of a cold where hot signs, such as fever, headache, sore throat and inflamed eyes are present. It’s also a quick fix to some unwanted irritability!
4. Astragalus Root: (huang qi) Great herb for tonification and supplementation when experiencing overall fatigue, poor appetite, pale complexion and digestive weakness. Also good to boost immunity during cold season.
5. Dried Ginger: (gan jiang) This hot, pungent herb is great at dispersing internal cold and warming the channels, therefore treating loose stools, chronic low back pain and cold sensations in the abdomen. It is also effective at treating nausea and vomiting due to morning sickness, so newly pregnant women should always have some on hand!