Did you know that for centuries, China and other Asian countries have relied on the power of herbal therapy? It’s amazing to see how the West is finally catching up to the timelessness of this ancient medicine. Many health professionals are now incorporating Chinese herbs to treat a wide range of health concerns.

But what is Chinese Herb Therapy? This article will inform you all about this type of therapy and its benefits.

What is Chinese Herb Therapy?

Chinese Herb Therapy is a sect of medicine that falls under the larger healing system called Traditional Chinese Medicine. Herbs are given to patients to restore energy balance to the opposing forces of energy, known as Yin and Yang, that are said to run through invisible channels in the body. Chinese herbal medicines are usually plant-based, but some preparations include minerals or animal products. It is important to remember that Chinese herbs can influence the body as powerfully as pharmaceutical drugs and, therefore, should only be used if recommended by an alternative medicine doctor.

The Benefits of Chinese Herb Therapy

Chinese Herb Therapy can produce healing effects for a wide array of health conditions, including:

  • Trouble with sleeping or insomnia
  • Depression, stress or anxiety
  • Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, IBS, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis
  • Women’s health issues, such as problems with menstruation, hormonal imbalances, hot flashes, PMS, fertility issues and painful periods
  • Men’s health issues, such as problems with impotence, fertility and prostate health
  • Migraines and tension headaches
  • Skin issues, including acne, shingles, hives and rashes
  • Chronic pain from arthritis, surgeries, injuries and fibromyalgia
  • Asthma, sinus infections, allergies and symptoms of the common cold

Why Study Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Many people are drawn to learning about Chinese Herb Therapy through their desire to treating patients with holistic methods, which help them optimize their health without relying entirely on pharmacological medicines. People find this to be both personally and professionally rewarding, and some of the major benefits you could expect to enjoy from massage therapy career path include:

Flexibility in scheduling

One of the best perks about pursuing a career in massage therapy and Chinese Herb Therapy is the chance to make your own work schedule. You can have your own practice if you wanted to, or you could choose to go into business with someone else. The choice is entirely yours

Travel opportunity

As a licensed massage therapist with experience using Chinese Herb Therapy, you are in demand virtually everywhere. You choose to live wherever you’d like and practice in just about any health setting you wish. Additionally, you could travel regularly for work. Spas, resorts, cruise ships and other settings are just some of the exciting places a career in massage and holistic medicine can take you.

Improved workplace atmosphere

Traditional clinical settings can be stuffy or bogged down with bureaucracy, but working in a practice specializing in massage, acupuncture and Chinese Herb Therapy has much more freedom. Running your own practice means you can set the tone in your own office.

Practicing independently

You have a world of opportunity as a licensed massage therapist, and one of the best opportunities is the chance to be your own boss. You can build your own career from the bottom up, which can be personally fulfilling.

A faster career path

Becoming a traditional medical doctor can take many years – four in medical school and then between three and seven years in residency. Becoming a massage therapist specializing in Chinese Herb Therapy takes just one year through the Medical Massage Therapy program at AIAM.

Chinese Herb Clinic at AIAM

Getting a Master’s certification from AIAM prepares healthcare practitioners to provide holistic and alternative treatments for patients who wish to alleviate their conditions with as few medications as possible. Chinese Herb Therapy is just one of many different holistic techniques you can expect to learn through AIAM’s programs. Others include:

  • Asian Bodywork
  • Acupuncture
  • Swedish Massage
  • Reiki
  • Myofascial Release
  • Aromatherapy
  • Sports Massage

The AIAM Chinese Herb Clinic dispenses herbs in concentrated granule form, and patients are instructed to mix their herb granules with hot water and drink as a tea, usually twice daily. The herbs AIAM stocks have been rigorously tested to ensure they are of the highest quality, pesticide-free and species correct products. Safety is AIAM’s top priority. A trained and certified TCM practitioner can identify herbs that are safe to take. The practitioner can also explain the potential side effects of the herbs they prescribe. Patients should always tell all of their practitioners about any drugs, herbs or supplements they are taking.

Learn more about AIAM’s program requirements or apply here to jumpstart your career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can Chinese herbs treat?

Chinese Herb Therapy has healing effects on:

  • Sleeping troubles or insomnia
  • Depression, stress, or anxiety
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Women’s problems with menstruation, hormonal imbalances, hot flashes, PMS, fertility issues, and painful periods
  • Men’s problems with impotence, fertility, and prostate health
  • Migraines and tension headaches
  • Skin issues
  • Chronic pain
  • Asthma, sinus infections, allergies, and symptoms of the common cold

Does Chinese herbal medicine actually work?

Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries and is still widely used today. While it may not work for everyone, some believe it can be effective for certain conditions. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified practitioner and to be cautious of potentially dangerous or counterfeit products.

How quickly do Chinese herbs work?

The speed at which Chinese herbs work varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Typically, it takes between 2-3 weeks. 

What is the Chinese calming herb?

Jujube, also known as red date, has mild sedative properties, making it an effective remedy for calming nerves. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is frequently used to treat anxiety and insomnia.

Do Chinese herbs have side effects?

When appropriately prescribed, the herbs should never result in harmful side effects. However, some Chinese herbal products are contaminated with toxic compounds, heavy metals, pesticides, and microorganisms, which could lead to serious side effects. Errors in manufacturing, such as the mistaken replacement of one herb with another, have also resulted in serious complications.