Basics4 min read
What are Chinese herbs?
The Western approach usually looks for one active compound for one problem. The Chinese herbal tradition works the other way around: a formula consists of several herbs that reinforce, complement and where necessary restrain one another. The aim is not to take away a single signal, but to bring the body back into balance.
A formula, not a single herb
In a classical formula every herb has a role. A chief herb sets the direction, other herbs support it, and others still take off the sharp edges or guide the effect to the right part of the body.
That is why Rear-Motion contains sixteen herbs and Nostress only three. Not because more is better, but because one theme calls for a broader approach and another for a narrower one.
Balance as the starting point
The Chinese herbal tradition looks at harmony: at heat and cold, dryness and damp, excess and deficiency. When the energy pathways fall out of balance, the body follows and you notice it in your animal.
A formula tries to locate that imbalance and correct it. This is also why results are rarely visible within a day: the body has to move with it.
What to expect
Allow two to four weeks before you see a difference, depending on how long it has been going on. The first ten days use a higher dose; after that you drop back to a maintenance dose.
Herbs do not replace an expert eye. If your animal suddenly takes a turn for the worse, or something does not feel right, have it seen first. Herbs can support alongside.