Are herbs safe?

Chinese herbs are very safe when prescribed correctly by a properly trained practitioner. Over the centuries, herbologists have compiled detailed information about them and placed great emphasis on the protection of the patient. Allergic type reactions are rare, and will cause no lasting damage if treatment is stopped as soon as symptoms appear.

In California, acupuncturists are the only licensed health care professionals who are required to be trained and tested for competency in prescribing herbal medicine. The California Acupuncture Board strongly recommends consulting an acupuncturist before beginning any herbal therapy. It is also important to inform both your physician and your acupuncturist about all of the drugs, herbs, and other supplements you are currently taking so they can monitor and prevent any adverse reactions.