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Mucus and Stomach in BalanceBan Xia(Pinellia) is an essential herb for anyone who suffers from a “sticky” feeling in the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, we call this “phlegm” or […]

The Nuance of GingerGinger is available in every supermarket. But in TCM it makes a world of difference whether you use the fresh root (Sheng Jiang) or the dried root […]

Natural RelaxantSuan Zao Ren(Sour Jujube Seed) is one of the most prized herbs for mental balance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the “Spirit” (Shen) is housed in the Heart and nourished […]

Rest for the UndercurrentIn many formulas that nourish the “Kidney Yin”, such as the well-knownZhi Bai Di Huang Wan, we see the coupleZhi Mu (Anemarrhena) en Huang Bai(Phellodendron). Why are […]

Lighting without DamageMost of the ingredients in TCM are plants (roots, leaves, flowers).Shi Gao(Gypsum) is an exception: it’s a mineral. It plays a unique role when the body experiences extreme […]

Triple Cooling for Three LevelsIn Chinese herbalism, the color yellow (“Huang”) often indicates a specific family of roots known for their bitterness and their ability to control heat and dampness. […]

Calm Internal WindGou Teng(Uncaria) is a plant with distinctive, hooked spines. In the TCM doctrine of “signature” (where form reveals function), we say that these hooks can “catch” or “grab” […]

Energy that Lifts Up Huang Qi(Astragalus) is one of the most beloved herbs in preventive health care. It is considered the guardian of “Wei Qi,” the protective energy that circulates […]

Feeding and Exercise in One Dang Gui(Angelica Sinensis) is often called “Women’s Ginseng” in the West. It is probably the most well-known herb for supporting the female cycle. What makes […]

Sour makes softBai Shao(White Peony Root) is a unique herb. When you taste it, it is sour. In TCM theory, “sour” has an astringent effect (it keeps things down). Yet,Bai […]