Chinese herbology

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

(Redirected from Chinese herbs)

Chinese Herbology is a traditional practice originating from Ancient China that involves the use of herbs for medicinal purposes. This practice is a significant part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which also includes acupuncture, dietary therapy, and exercise in the form of qigong.

History

Chinese herbology has a history of over 2000 years and is deeply rooted in the Chinese culture. The earliest record of Chinese herbology can be traced back to the Shennong Bencao Jing, a Chinese book on agriculture and medicinal plants.

Principles

The principles of Chinese herbology are based on the concepts of Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and the Zang-Fu theory. These principles guide the selection and combination of herbs to achieve balance in the body.

Herbs

In Chinese herbology, over 3000 different types of herbs are used. These herbs are classified into three categories: superior, middle, and inferior. Superior herbs are non-toxic and can be consumed in large amounts over a long period. Middle herbs are slightly toxic and are used to treat diseases. Inferior herbs are highly toxic and are used sparingly for severe conditions.

Preparation and Use

Chinese herbs are typically prepared in a decoction, a concentrated herbal tea. They can also be used in powders, pills, tinctures, and external applications such as lotions, compresses, and baths.

Safety and Regulation

While Chinese herbology has been practiced for thousands of years, it is not without risks. Some herbs can interact with other medications, and some can be toxic if used improperly. In many countries, Chinese herbs are regulated as dietary supplements, which means they are not subject to the same rigorous testing as pharmaceutical drugs.

See Also

WHO Rod.svg
This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
PubMed
Wikipedia

  • Traditional medicine market in Xi'an

  • Chinese pharmacopoeia

  • Chinese herbal decoction on snow

  • Wuxing diagram

  • Seahorse skeleton

  • Envoy herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.org/w/index.php?title=Chinese_herbology&oldid=6321719"

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD