Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is one of the most sophisticated and comprehensive herbal systems in the world, refined over thousands of years of clinical observation and practice. At the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic, Dr. Shanwen Gao integrates herbal medicine with acupuncture to provide patients with a complete, whole-body approach to healing. Where acupuncture works primarily through the nervous and energetic systems, herbal medicine nourishes, regulates, and restores the body from within — making the two therapies highly complementary.
A System Built on Formulas
Unlike Western herbal medicine, which typically uses single herbs in isolation, Traditional Chinese Medicine relies on carefully crafted formulas combining multiple herbs. Each formula is designed so that the herbs work synergistically — some addressing the root cause of illness, others targeting symptoms, and others moderating the effects of stronger ingredients to ensure safety and balance. Dr. Gao draws on thousands of classical formulas that have been tested and refined over centuries, adapting them to each patient's individual constitution and pattern of imbalance. Herbs may be prescribed as concentrated granules dissolved in warm water, as capsules, or as raw herbs prepared as a decoction at home.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Digestive Disorders
Herbal formulas are particularly effective for chronic digestive complaints including irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, bloating, nausea, and irregular bowel habits. TCM identifies the specific digestive pattern at play and selects herbs that restore healthy function to the stomach and intestines.
Hormonal Imbalances
Chinese herbal medicine has a long tradition of regulating the endocrine system. Dr. Gao uses herbal formulas to address irregular menstrual cycles, PMS, menopausal symptoms, thyroid imbalances, and fertility concerns — often achieving results where conventional approaches have fallen short.
Immune System Support
Adaptogenic and immune-modulating herbs help the body resist illness, recover more quickly from infections, and reduce the frequency of colds and flu. Long-term herbal treatment can significantly strengthen overall immune resilience.
Skin Conditions
Eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, and other chronic skin conditions often have internal origins that topical treatments cannot address. Chinese herbal medicine works from the inside out, clearing heat, dampness, or blood deficiency patterns that manifest on the skin.
Anxiety, Depression & Sleep Disorders
Herbal formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Shen (spirit) are among the most valued in the TCM pharmacopoeia. Dr. Gao prescribes formulas that reduce anxiety, lift mood, and promote deep, restorative sleep without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical options.
Chronic Fatigue & Low Vitality
Tonic herbs that build Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang are used to address deep exhaustion, adrenal fatigue, and long-term depletion. These formulas work gradually but profoundly, restoring energy reserves and improving overall stamina over time.