Western physicians have a difficult time prescribing herbal medications to their patients. It’s difficult to practice medicine across cultures. A recent review of Chinese herbal medicine provides insight into the difficulty proving that alternative medicines work, but finds that the use of Chinese herbs is effective.
Painful menstruation is a real problem, causing disruption in daily routines. It occurs in half of young women. In one study, only 53%-59% of women obtained pain relief with analgesics. Studies have been poor by research standards, but the evidence seems to show that Chinese herbal medication can help with dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation.
Additional research regarding Chinese medicine is also positive. In one study, six Chinese herbal preparations were shown to lower blood sugar, and 15 worked well with Western medications for diabetic glucose control.
The same thing with the common cold – recovery times were faster with the use of Chinese medications. In five studies, the herbal medications were superior, and in eight, they were as effective as other medications.
Again, these studies are considered to be lacking in their methods and do not address safety and tolerance, but Chinese herbal medicine use is supported by current researchers.
Ideally, Western physicians could collaborate with experienced practitioners of Chinese medicine to deliver complete care to patients.
Until Chinese medicine is better studied, you probably won’t get your doctor to discuss whether it might help you – but there is no doubt, it has stood the test of time.
Cordyceps is a tonic used as far back as China’s Emperors. It is touted to enhance blood flow and provide energy to the body, enhances immunity, and provides an anti-oxidant effect. It is considered safe. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps has long been used as an aphrodisiac. Studies are cited, showing that Cordyceps also has benefits for increasing stamina, and improving respiratory function.
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