4 Popular Traditional Chinese Herbs

While not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Chinese herbal medicine has been practiced for centuries. There are dozens of different types of herbs that are used to treat a variety of health conditions, but 4 of the most popular Chinese herbs are as follows.


4 of the Most Popular Traditional Chinese Herbs:

Dong quai
Made from the roots of dong quai, a plant with white flowers and purple stems, it has properties similar to estrogen, the female hormone. Dong quai has been used to treat allergies, constipation, high blood pressure, joint pain, premenstrual syndrome, psoriasis, and ulcers, among other things.

Forms: capsules, tea, liquid extract.
Cautions: Dong quai can cause skin to become sensitive, especially among people undergoing ultraviolet treatments. It is also advised that people with fibroids, endometriosis, some forms of cancer, or bleeding disorders avoid taking dong quai.

Ginseng
The roots from this flowering plant are used to help strengthen the immune system, reduce fatigue, improve mental function, and treat sexual dysfunction.

Forms: capsules, tablets, teas, liquids
Cautions: People with diabetes, heart problems, fibroids, cancer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or who have had organ transplants or are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised not to take ginseng. Also, it is widely advised that ginseng not be taken continually for more than three months at a time.

Ma-Hwang
Also known as ephedra, ma hwang is a shrub that contains ephedrine, an ingredient that can stimulate the central nervous system and suppress the appetite to help speed up weight loss.

Forms: capsules, liquid extract, teas, tablets
Cautions: Ma-Hwang has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and seizures.

Chinese Hawthorn
The berries, flowers, and leaves of this shrub are used to alleviate high blood pressure, insomnia, high cholesterol, muscle spasms, and anxiety. It can either be ingested or applied directly to the skin.

Forms: teas, extracts, capsules
Cautions: Could lead to irregular heartbeat, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and skin rash. It could also interact with mainstream medications, such as ACE inhibitors, alpha blockers, beta blockers, and diuretics.

The use of Chinese herbs to treat medical conditions has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. If you are considering taking Chinese herbs, talk with your doctor or health care professional to avoid any possible harmful interactions.