Chinese herbal medicine is one of the great herbal traditions of the world with a recorded history of more than 2,000 years. It uses the same diagnostic principles as those used in acupuncture.

Treatment with herbs involves the combination of different herbs tailored to the requirements of each person. They are designed to restore the natural balance within the body.

I use over two hundred herbs. Different plant parts are used including the flowers, stems, leaves and roots. This can make for some rather bitter tasting decoctions, but most people get accustomed to them quickly! Herbs are usually taken internally although there are some external preparations such as those used to help with skin disorders. Depending on your requirements I will either dispense soluble granules which can easily be made into a tea by adding hot water or I will dispense raw herbs that you will need to cook up.

I get my herbs from Phoenix Medical. They believe that patient safety is of the utmost importance and so ensure that their herbs are grown the way they are supposed to – at the original source and without the use of harmful pesticides, herbicides or sulphur. Each batch of herbs is 100% traceable and Certificates of Analysis are available for practitioner and patient reference. They have supplied herbs for NHS clinical trials and are confident that they can provide the highest guaranteed quality.

I only used plant based and hence vegan friendly herbs. I would never use any products derived from animals.

Instructions for the Preparation of Raw Herbs

1. Empty the contents of one bag into a saucepan (preferably a ceramic or other non-metallic one).

2. Pour on one pint of water or enough to cover well.

3. Let the herbs soak for 30 minutes.

4. Bring the herbs to the boil and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Strain and keep the liquid from the cooked herbs.

6. Pour another pint of water onto the herbs and cook again for 20 minutes (no need to soak this time).

7. Strain the fluid off and mix with the previous fluid. You should have at least a pint of liquid. Store this in the fridge.

8.   This will last you for two days. Drink it twice a day at least half an hour after food. (It should be drunk warm). Add a small quantity of honey to sweeten if the taste is too strong.

Stop taking your herbs immediately if you experience any of the following:

1. Nausea and vomiting.

2. A cold or the flu.

3. Your symptoms get worse.

4. You feel generally unwell.

If you experience any problems or need further clarification please call me.