The Benefits and Uses of Hong Hua (Safflower) in Traditional Chinese Medicine

The Benefits and Uses of Hong Hua (Safflower) in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hong Hua (Safflower), the tubular flower crown of the annual herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family, is primarily produced in Henan, Hebei, Zhejiang, Sichuan, Yunnan, Shandong, and other regions. The petals are harvested in summer when they change from yellow to red. # 1.Hong Hua for Activating Blood Circulation According to Gu Wenjian’s “Chuan Chuang … Read more

The Effects and Uses of Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) – Contraindications and Consumption Methods

The Effects and Uses of Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) - Contraindications and Consumption Methods

Chuanxiong (川芎), in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of application and is believed to have the effects of invigorating blood circulation and alleviating pain. Below are the common effects and uses of Chuanxiong in TCM. 1. Invigorating Blood and Resolving Stasis: Chuanxiong is widely used to treat various symptoms and diseases caused … Read more

Effects and Functions of Bai Shao (White Peony) and Contraindications

Effects and Functions of Bai Shao (White Peony) and Contraindications Bai Shao (White Peony) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, and its effects and functions are primarily reflected in the following aspects: Nourishing Blood and Regulating Menstruation: Bai Shao enters the Liver meridian and can nourish the Yin blood of the Liver, helping to regulate … Read more

The Effects and Functions of Ginseng, Contraindications and Side Effects

The Effects and Functions of Ginseng, Contraindications and Side Effects

01 The Effects and Functions of Ginseng Ginseng (Ren Shen) can regulate female physiological functions, balance the endocrine system, enhance female functions, delay aging, and provide beauty benefits. It also has the effects of tonifying Qi and nourishing blood. It can significantly benefit elderly individuals and those prone to anemia. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes … Read more

Beware of Ginseng: The Hidden Dangers of Improper Use

Beware of Ginseng: The Hidden Dangers of Improper Use

In traditional practices, ginseng is commonly used for supplementation. There is an old saying in TCM, “Da Huang saves lives without merit, ginseng kills without fault.” Ginseng is perceived as a tonic, leading many to believe that taking more is always better. However, with various types of ginseng available, what are the differences in their … Read more

Important Considerations for Gua Sha Treatment

Important Considerations for Gua Sha Treatment

Gua Sha has many contraindications. For example: cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney dysfunction, liver and kidney failure, leukemia, and patients taking anticoagulants. Expert ExplanationNie Bin Chief TCM Physician Professor Doctor of Medicine Master’s Supervisor in Acupuncture and Tuina Gua Sha Techniques 01 Head Gua Sha Techniques When scraping the head, do not apply excessive force, … Read more

What to Consider When Receiving Cupping Therapy at the Hospital?

What to Consider When Receiving Cupping Therapy at the Hospital?

Recently, there has been an increase in patients coming to my clinic for cupping therapy (zǒu guàn), which not only brings physical and mental comfort but can also become somewhat addictive. Naturally, patients have been inquiring about the precautions for cupping therapy. Although the effects are significant, it is not suitable for everyone. Cupping therapy … Read more

Where to Start and End Moxibustion: Best Times and Techniques You Should Know

Where to Start and End Moxibustion: Best Times and Techniques You Should Know

With the rising trend of health preservation, many people have begun to pay attention to wellness, but how many truly understand the contraindications, indications, sequence, and optimal timing for moxibustion? In fact, just like “needles can kill or revive,” moxibustion has its own intricacies. The Iron Rules of Moxibustion 1) During moxibustion, or throughout the … Read more

Traditional Chinese Medicine Gāo Formulas: Essential Guidelines for Use

Traditional Chinese Medicine Gāo Formulas: Essential Guidelines for Use

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) gāo formulas, also known as gāo jì (膏剂) or gāo zī (膏滋), are a type of internal herbal preparation that provides comprehensive benefits such as nourishment, supplementation, and preventive treatment. They are one of the commonly used forms of Chinese medicine, alongside pills, powders, and elixirs. Gāo formulas are semi-fluid preparations … Read more

Understanding the Proper Administration of Chinese Herbal Decoctions

Understanding the Proper Administration of Chinese Herbal Decoctions

Chinese herbal medicine is a treasure of our country’s medical system. The in-depth exploration, research, and summarization by ancient sages have led to the widespread recognition and application of Chinese herbal medicine. In addition to the dialectical treatment by doctors, the meticulous dispensing by pharmacists, and careful decoction, the correct method of taking medicine is … Read more