Herbology
Chinese herbology is an energetic medicine. Although one can chemically analyze the herbs in terms of molecules that are supportive of specific physiological processes, the chinese herbalist approaches the medicine from a more functional perspective, in which the ability of the herbs to regulate and balance entire metabolic systems are considered. Rarely is an herb used in isolation – rather, formulas are used in which there is a chief herb joined by a supporting cast with elaborate interrelationships. Together, the herbs in a formula give a set of instructions to the body about how to rebalance its metabolic systems. The herbal treatment is generally short-term, for once the body (re)learns its balance, the patient is able to discontinue most formulas.
Dr Matthew often supplements his Acupuncture treatments with herbal prescription. Although he usually uses pre-prepared formulas for this purpose, he also has an extensive pharmacy of single herbs through which he prepares customized formulas. Dr Kreitzer is a national board-certified Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbologist, and he practices an herbal medicine that draws from both classical and modern chinese herbology. |