Chinese Medicine Basics Articles

Tablets, Teapills, Tinctures, Oh My! Decoding the Types of Chinese Herbal Medicine

Are you wondering which form of a Chinese herbal formula is right for you? Let’s explore the various types of Chinese herbal medicine to help you decide. Those new to Chinese herbal medicine often ask why there are so many different types of preparations, like pills, tablets, tinctures, and decoctions. What’s the difference? And which…
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Unlocking the Power of Teapills: A Comprehensive Guide to TCM’s Best-Kept Secret

How to Effectively Use Teapills for Your Health Teapills, a staple in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), offer a simple way to incorporate powerful herbal remedies into your wellness routine. These tiny, round, herbal capsules are pre-prepared, easy to take, and packed with centuries-old wisdom. If you’re looking to benefit from the healing power of TCM,…
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Chinese Medicine vs. Western Medicine

How Chinese Medicine treats dysfunction, disease, health and wellbeing is complementary to Western Medicine Even at a glance, Chinese Medicine is quite different from Western Medicine. Earthy herbs are favored over laboratory compounds, mind and body are considered one, and diet and lifestyle take center stage. Chinese Medicine is an ancient system developed thousands of…
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Spleen and Spleen (Chi)Qi in Chinese Medicine

What do we mean by the Spleen: According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, the energetic organ system responsible for what we in modern times call “digestion” is the Spleen. This is not to be confused with the Western medical definition of the spleen as the organ that, among other things, makes antibodies, removes old red…
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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…
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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…
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The History of Tea in China

When you think of China, do images of buzzing cities, the Great Wall, vast rice fields, silk shops, and dumplings fill your mind? These are some of the most common things we associate with China. But what about tea? Tea is one of the most important aspects of Chinese culture, trade, and of course –…
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All About Adaptogens and Chinese Medicine

Adaptogens are one of the latest health crazes, promising less stress and improved well being. But are adaptogens all they’re made up to be? Ongoing research is shedding light on how these power plants could help us become healthier and more resilient – despite the stressors of modern life. Let’s learn more about these adaptogens…
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A Very Herbal Valentines Day – Medicinal Flowers in Chinese Herbal Medicine

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…
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About the Author

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.

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Articles Related To Category: Chinese Medicine Basics Articles

Are Chinese Herbs Safe to Take During Pregnancy?
May 2, 2025

Pregnancy is a time of transformation, growth, and, perhaps most importantly, careful decision-making. Many expecting mothers look for natural ways to support their health and well-being during this important time in their lives – and Chinese herbs for pregnancy may be one of those natural solutions. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a wealth of herbal…
4 Ways to Boost Your Fertility with Chinese Herbal Medicine
April 25, 2025

Hoping to grow your family naturally, but not sure where to start? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by fertility advice, Chinese herbs for fertility may offer the support you need. Chinese medicine has been used successfully for centuries to help women enjoy a happy, healthy pregnancy. Through acupuncture, herbal formulas, bodywork, qi gong, meditation, dietary therapy,…
Chinese Herbs for Hot Flashes: Natural Relief for Menopause Symptoms
April 18, 2025

Are hot flashes catching you off guard at the worst times? There’s nothing more irritating than a flush coming on during important meetings, your favorite workouts, or even while you’re trying to sleep. If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Hot flashes are one of the most common (and frustrating) symptoms of menopause, affecting up…
Best Chinese Medicines for Dogs
April 11, 2025

As a loving pet owner, we know you would do anything in your power to keep your dog happy and healthy. Unfortunately, there comes a time in every dog’s life when they need a little extra support to stay well. That’s where Chinese medicine for dogs comes in. With Chinese medicine for dogs, you can…
Liver Support & Flow: Which Chinese Herbal Formula is Right for You?
April 4, 2025

Have you ever felt like stress is getting the best of you? Or maybe your digestion seems off, your sleep is disrupted, or you’re experiencing headaches that won’t go away? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these symptoms often point to an imbalance in one of the body’s most crucial organ systems: the Liver. Blaming your…