Chinese Herbal Therapy

Chinese herbal medicine uses combinations of herbs — roots, leaves, flowers, minerals, and other natural substances — to create formulas designed to guide the body back into harmony. Unlike single-herb supplements commonly found in Western wellness, Chinese herbal medicine relies on balanced formulas where each ingredient plays a specific role:

• chief herb (main therapeutic action)

• assistant herbs (support or enhance effects)

• harmonizers (balance the formula)

• envoys (guide the formula to specific areas of the body)

This sophisticated structure allows formulas to be highly effective while minimizing side effects.

Formulas may be prepared as teas, granules, tinctures, pills, or powders depending on your needs and preferences.

Chinese herbal medicine is extremely versatile and may support:

• menstrual and hormonal balance

• fertility and reproductive wellness

• digestive health (bloating, irregularity, sluggish digestion)

• sleep disturbances

• emotional balance and stress regulation

• fatigue and low vitality

• immune support and seasonal wellness

• skin health (acne, dryness, irritation)

• recovery from illness or prolonged stress

Herbal therapy works beautifully on its own, but can also enhance the effects of acupuncture and lifestyle changes.

Herbal formulas work gently and steadily to shift internal patterns and improve overall function. Rather than suppressing symptoms, they address why the imbalance exists in the first place.

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1. Nourishing Deficiencies

Some formulas strengthen Qi, blood, Yin, or Yang — the fundamental substances that support energy, warmth, moisture, and vitality.

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2. Clearing Excess

Other formulas move stagnation, reduce heat or inflammation, dry dampness, or expel pathogens.

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3. Supporting Organ Systems

Each herb influences specific organs and channels, helping them function more harmoniously.

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4. Regulating the Nervous System

Certain formulas calm the mind, ease emotional tension, and support restful sleep.

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5. Harmonizing Multiple Patterns

Most people experience more than one imbalance at a time — for example, stress and digestive tension, or fatigue paired with poor sleep.

Herbal formulas can address layered patterns simultaneously. This versatility makes Chinese herbal medicine uniquely aligned with real-life complexity.

Your herbal consultation includes a comprehensive discussion about your symptoms, digestion, sleep, emotional patterns, lifestyle habits, menstrual history (if applicable), and long-term goals. Tongue and pulse assessment may also be included to further clarify the pattern of imbalance.

Based on the findings, a personalized formula is recommended. You will receive:

• dosing instructions

• preparation guidelines

• dietary suggestions

• expectations for how quickly improvements may appear

Herbal medicine is safe, gentle, and adaptable. Formulas can be adjusted as your body responds and your symptoms change.

Chinese herbal medicine is safe when prescribed by a trained herbalist. At Three Essentials:

• All herbs are sourced from high-quality, ethically produced suppliers

• Products are lab-tested for purity, contaminants, and potency

• Formulas are customized for your body — never one-size-fits-all

• Herbal prescriptions are integrated with any Western treatments you are receiving

Herbal therapy can be safely combined with most medications, but adjustments may be made when necessary to avoid interactions.

Herbal medicine works gradually, building a foundation for lasting change.

General guidelines:

• Acute issues: improvement within a few days

• Chronic conditions: 4–12 weeks for meaningful transformation

• Long-term support: seasonal or ongoing use

Formulas may evolve over time as your body shifts into better balance.

Dr. Di Guan brings deep training in both classical formulas and modern herbal applications. Her approach is thoughtful, precise, and fully individualized — centered on understanding the unique pattern behind each person’s symptoms.

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Patients appreciate the gentle guidance, clear explanations, and the sense of being truly seen and supported. Herbal therapy at Three Essentials is never rushed or transactional; it is a collaborative process designed to nourish your body and restore long-term wellness.

Chinese herbal medicine offers a timeless, elegant way to cultivate balance and vitality.

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Schedule an herbal consultation or book a free 15-minute discovery call to begin.