ब्लॉग

Seasonal tonics are an interesting tradition, but they are not a reason for everyone to start a product. Christine dispenses granules chosen for current needs, with written directions.

When the season changes, so does the marketing

As the weather cools, seasonal tonics and sweet herbal pastes appear in shops and online as a cool-weather ritual. Seasonal traditions are an interesting part of Chinese medicine, but a change in the weather does not mean everyone should start the same product, and a comforting texture does not make anything free of risk.

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, is glad to talk about whether seasonal ideas have a place in your own care. You can see her for a herbal consultation at the Lane Cove clinic and bring along any product you have noticed, or its packaging.

How herbal medicine is supplied here

Here, herbal medicine is supplied as granules in bottles, not as pastes or home recipes. If a preparation is considered, it is chosen for your current needs and comes with its own written measuring, storage and use-by directions. Copying a seasonal tonic recipe from a book or a relative’s notes is not a substitute.

Questions to ask first

• What is being proposed, and are any of its ingredients a concern for me?
• How is it taken, and when will its use be reviewed?
• Does it fit with my medical history, pregnancy plans or allergies?
• Could it interact with medicines or supplements I already take?

Start with the concern, not the calendar

Instead of buying something because winter has arrived, think about the specific issue you would like to discuss, such as tiredness, appetite or a cold that seems to linger. Christine can consider that concern within traditional theory and alongside the rest of your healthcare, and she may suggest checking with your GP if something needs medical assessment.

Keeping it organised

If a granule product is prescribed, keep the label, the written directions and the planned review date together with the bottle. Let Christine know whenever another medicine is started or stopped, and ask for guidance if an unexpected symptom appears rather than changing the amount on your own.

A sensible next step

Bring a photo of any seasonal product label that has caught your eye. Christine can explain the traditional thinking behind it and leave the decision about whether anything is needed at all firmly in your hands.