TCM is based on the principle that in order to be healthy, our organs, bones, tissues, tendons and muscles need proper nourishment. Therefore, Traditional Chinese Medicine is designed to promote normal and proper function of all of the aforementioned. Proper nourishment is provided through the free circulation or flow of energy (Qi) throughout our bodies.

Here's an analogy. Imagine trying to water a garden with a hose that has a blockage in it. What will eventually happen to the plants if they don't receive the proper nourishment they require? We all know the answer to this. They would wilt and certainly wouldn't be vital enough to produce fruits or flowers.

The body is similar. Imagine the organs in place of the plants and the garden hose as a pathway or meridian that carries vital energy to the organ(s). When there is a blockage in the flow of the vital life-force to the organs they become less vital and do not function as well. Acupuncturists are trained to find and remove the blockages to restore proper organ function.

Chinese herbal medicine works in a similar manner. Customized herbal prescriptions are designed to treat both the root cause and the symptoms of your condition. The formulas include 4-12 herbs in a single prescription. This system allows for maximum flexibility in tailoring a prescription to your specific condition. As your condition changes, adjustments are made in the formula to reflect the changes in your condition.

Chinese herbs are also available inn pill form and are prescribed in the case of acute or chronic conditions where formulas do not have to be very potent or changed on a frequent basis.