How Safe Is This Chinese Herbal Formula?
by Syl
The commercial name is Golden Flower Chinese Herbs " Nourish Essence Formula". I am a pharmacist that is used to side effects and kind of afraid to take herbs but feel that this is the way to take care of your body the natural way. This formula is supposed to regulate my menstrual period as I am trying to get pregnant. Please give me some peace of mind so i can take them without fear. Thanks Syl. Matthew's reply: Hi Syl, the formula you are taking is based on a well known Chinese herbal tonic. I looked at the Golden Flower website and based on what I read I do not think you have to worry about the quality of the product. They say "All of our formulas are tested for pesticide residues, microbial activity and heavy metals. Our products exceed current international GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards." For a factory to receive GMP status means they have passed all the necessary tests. GMP status also means the factory is regularly inspected by health officials to ensure continued compliance with GMP regulations. As to how effective that particular formula will be for you I cannot say. To prescribe the right Chinese herbal formula first requires a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnosis. This can only be done face to face, not via the Internet. I assume the practitioner who gave you the formula did a TCM diagnosis? A Western medicine diagnosis is not enough to properly prescribe Chinese medicine as they are two completely different systems. When prescribed based on a TCM diagnosis you should not experience any side effects. However, sometimes when taking Chinese herbal tonics you may feel bloated or feel that something is not quite right with your digestion. This is because tonic herbs are heavy in nature and can be difficult to digest. Adjusting the dose or adding herbs to help digestion usually fixes this. My suggestion is if you have any concerns you should speak with the prescribing practitioner. Once again, though, based on what I read on the website I would not worry about the safety of the formula. Hope this helps. If you have any general questions about taking Chinese herbal medicine just post below. Also see my new website Chinese Herbal Remedies. All the best, Matthew |