When we hear the word "Acupuncture", we immediately think of the Chinese Medicine method using needles to redirect energy (Qi) flow in the body. This is true, of course, but in addition to the use of needles, Chinese medicine also uses herbs for the enhancement of Acupuncture treatments.

In the Western world, we are used to taking supplements and vitamins, in the form of pills and capsules. Those are vitamins or minerals that we don't get enough of in our daily nutrition. The Chinese herbs are different, in that they are very specific to the symptoms that the patient is experiencing. Usually, the herbs are infused into hot water, and taken as a tea. Occasionally, pills and capsules are used. There is also use of raw herbs, which are very potent.

Westerners, who are not used to this type of treatment, might find the taste of the teas and the raw herbs objectionable, however, the treatment is very effective.

When prescribing the herbs, or mixing the herbs in the clinic, the Acupuncture practitioner will create a mixer of herbs, within which each herbs is measured and weighed very accurately, and combined specifically for your symptoms and condition.

It is important to tell your practitioner if any changes in your health occur, or if any new symptoms appear. Make sure to tell your practitioner if you are taking any other medications, or any other nutritional supplements. Interactions and adverse reactions are rare, but it's important for the practitioner to know about any other substances taken.

Herbs are not always used, and are not a mandatory part of the treatment. Acupuncture itself is sometimes sufficient to treat symptoms and conditions, or improve your health. However, when used, herbs can be very effective in acceleration of the treatment and improvement of your health.

In conclusion, in addition to the treatment using needles, sometimes the Chinese Medicine practitioner also uses herbs to accelerate and augment treatment. These herbs are different from the vitamins and nutritional supplements we use in the Western World, in that they are prescribed specifically for you, and your symptoms.

Usually they are taken in the form of a tea, raw herbs, pills and capsules. The taste might be objectionable to a Westerner who is not used to it. It is not mandatory to take herbs, but when taken - they can be very effective in acceleration and augmentation of the treatment.