Kaitlin Downes - Author & Contributor | Best Chinese Medicines

How TCM Can Help You Avoid “Fifty-Year-Old-Shoulder”

Joint pain can be a huge burden, especially as we age. One of the most common issues people face as they approach their 50s is what some TCM practitioners call “fifty-year-old-shoulder.” Also known as frozen shoulder or impingement syndrome, this shoulder pain can be extremely aggravating and keep you from doing the tasks and activities
Read More »
Chinese Herbs for Acid Reflux

There’s nothing worse than enjoying a delicious meal only to be interrupted by the uncomfortable burn of acid reflux. But don’t give up all your favorite foods just yet – Chinese herbs for acid reflux can help! It’s true, this common condition can turn any meal into an uncomfortable ordeal. But the key to enjoying
Read More »
TCM and Nutrition: Eating for the Seasons

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is more than just a change in weather; it’s an opportunity to align our bodies and live in tune with nature. With late summer – the “fifth season” of TCM – upon us, now is the perfect time to rethink what we put on our plates and eat in
Read More »
Chinese Herbal Cures for Summer Sport Injuries

Summertime is here – and it’s the prime season for outdoor activities. Whether you’re exercising outside, playing sports, or just enjoying some time in the sun with friends and family, enjoying the summer and staying active also helps you maintain your best health. But, all that extra exercise can come at a cost. Increased activity
Read More »
Chinese Herbs for a Restorative Postpartum

For expecting moms, pregnancy and preparing for your baby is just the beginning of your new life as a mother – and your new body. In the weeks that follow the birth of your baby, you are also reborn as a new version of yourself. While this is an incredible transition, it can come with
Read More »
10 Natural Topical Treatments for Joint Pain

If you’ve ever struggled with joint pain, you know how it can turn even the simplest daily tasks into aggravating challenges. Reaching for an over-the-counter pain reliever is a common first step for many arthritis and joint pain sufferers, but if you’re reading this, you might be curious about natural alternatives. The good news is
Read More »
Chinese Herbs for Stroke Recovery and Prevention

A stroke is a serious medical event with some potentially serious consequences. But did you know that taking quick, restorative action after a stroke can help reduce the lingering effects of stroke? Or that there are ways you can reduce your risk of stroke – including taking Chinese herbal medicine? While modern medicine has made
Read More »
The Best Chinese Herbs for Gout

Gout, a painful form of arthritis, is becoming increasingly common worldwide. In fact, over 8.3 million Americans suffer from this burning toe pain every year. Thankfully, Chinese herbs for gout offer a safe and natural way to ease the pain. The usual treatments for gout often involve medications, which can have side effects and don’t
Read More »
Dampness in Chinese Medicine – What is it & How To Fix It

If you have read our blogs or visited an acupuncturist, you may have heard the term “dampness.” But what is dampness in Chinese Medicine, and what does it mean for your health? Dampness may sound like a strange concept, but it’s pretty simple. Read on to learn what dampness really is and how you can
Read More »

About the Author

Kaitlan Downes, MSAOM, L.AC

Kate Downes is a Chinese medicine practitioner with a passion for herbal medicine. In fact, it was her love for plant and earth medicine that first drew her to study Chinese medicine.

Kate has a MSAOM (Master of Science, Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine) certification and practiced acupuncture in Indianapolis, IN for five years before packing her bags to roam the world. In order to stay in touch with the wellness community and continue to help others thrive with herbal medicine, she transformed her work from face-to-face patient care to spreading wellness through words. Her life as a remote herbalist and writer has allowed her to work with a variety of wellness brands, health pioneers, and her wonderful clients. She has a special interest in working with women’s health.

Kate thoroughly enjoys writing educational and useful pieces for Best Chinese Medicine. Her goal is to help the public gain a better understanding of the wonders of Chinese herbal medicine so they can be empowered in their own quest for natural, vibrant health.

Blog Categories

Articles Related To Author: Kaitlan Downes, MSAOM, L.AC

Where to Buy Yunnan Baiyao
March 26, 2026

Learn where to buy Yunnan Baiyao online, in pet stores, and from trusted suppliers. Compare prices, costs, and retailer options for safe purchasing.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms For Dogs
March 25, 2026

Learn about turkey tail mushroom for dogs benefits, dosage, immune support, side effects, and cancer care use in this informative guide.
Eating with the Seasons: TCM Tips for Spring
March 21, 2026

Each season brings its own energy, rhythms, and needs. Living in tune with these needs by adjusting your diet is one of the best ways to help our bodies stay balanced and resilient. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring marks the shift from winter’s deep rest to new growth and movement. Just as sprouts push…
Best Adaptogens for Energy
February 20, 2026

Do you struggle with fatigue? Or want to wake up each day with more “pep in your step?” If so, adaptogens for energy could help you gain the energy you crave. Adaptogen herbs are a natural way to relieve stress, boost your energy, and live with more vitality. They can help nearly anyone have a…
A Very Herbal Valentines Day – Medicinal Flowers in Chinese Herbal Medicine
February 13, 2026

It’s February and that means Valentine’s Day is on its way! Valentine’s Day is all about love, treats, pampering, chocolates, and flowers of course! Flowers can brighten up any room, but did you know they can work wonders on our health as well? Flowers have long been a part of the Chinese healing tradition and…