What is herbal medicine?
An herb is anything found in nature (often a plant part) that has known medicinal properties. Many cultures have their own unique set of herbs. Dr. Gaffney’s training is specifically in Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese herbs have a very long history (thousands of years) of documented successful use. When treating pain, acupuncture and other external therapies may be sufficient, but when treating internally generating issues such as skin, immune or digestive disorders, herbs are often a necessary addition to treatment or the primary treatment. Herbs work more gently and slowly than drugs. Oftentimes drugs are quick fixes but just suppress symptoms and lead to a lot of side effects and dependence. Herbs aim to regulate the body’s normal function, to clear out stagnation, to clear excess pathogenic factors such as heat and damp, and to tonify deficiencies seen with Qi (energy) and blood. There are hundreds of Chinese herbs each with specific functions, qualities and pathways. It takes a lot of skill to prescribe the right combination of herbs at just the right time.
Are herbs safe?
Herbs are generally quite safe when sourced by a reputable company and prescribed by a licensed herbalist. Herbalists are also trained to recognize when herbs are not a safe option and to identify potential medication interactions.
How are herbs taken?
Herbs are taken in the form of capsules, granulated powder or liquid decoctions depending on the condition and patient preference. Instructions will be provided for dosage, timing of herbs around medications, and when to stop herbs.
What is the cost?
The cost of capsule and granulated powder formulas is typically about $100-200/month. Liquid decoctions are more expensive, typically about $500-700/month. Decocted herbs are used in more severe cases. Some patients may become concerned about the cost of adding herbs. Actually herbal medicine is more cost effective than having to come in frequently (1-2x week) for acupuncture treatments. When you take herbs every day at home, you really only need to come in for a check in and refill every few weeks. With herbs, you get consistent treatment with longer lasting effects.