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“Chinese herbal medicine is
customized and individualized medicine.”
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Herbal medicine was the only medicine used in China before western drugs were imported to China. The uniqueness of this system is the belief that each and every person has a unique constitution, energy balance and psycho-physical pattern. Therefore, medicine should be customized and individualized, no one drug fits all.
Herbal medicine and western drugs both have their strengths; each suited for different conditions and circumstances. Patients often tell me “I don’t like taking medications, so I came to you." It is true that many conditions can be managed by natural herbs or non-chemical approaches. Over use or prolonged use of drugs can create side-effects. We should use drugs only when it is really necessary.
For instance, for acute infections or life threatening conditions, drugs can save lives. For severe chronic illnesses, drugs can prolong lives. But in some cases, we can use herbs instead of or in combination with drugs which will still help us reach the ideal result and limit possible side effects. For preventive or maintenance purposes, or for chronic conditions, herbs are definitely the first choice.
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