The Power of Chinese Herbal Medicine: How It WorksAlongside Acupuncture

Acupuncture tends to get most of the attention when people think of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but herbal
medicine is just as central to the system, and the two are traditionally meant to work together rather than as
separate options. While acupuncture treats through points on the body, herbal formulas work internally, often
over a longer, more sustained timeline, which is part of why combining the two frequently produces more
complete results than either approach alone.
How Chinese Herbal Formulas Work
Rather than a single herb targeting a single symptom, Traditional Chinese Medicine typically uses formulas,
combinations of multiple herbs designed to work together, with some herbs addressing the primary concern
and others supporting digestion, absorption, or balancing the formula’s overall effect. Formulas are selected
based on your specific pattern, meaning two people with the same general complaint, such as fatigue, might
receive different formulas depending on the underlying imbalance driving their particular symptoms.
Why Herbs and Acupuncture Complement Each Other
Acupuncture tends to create a relatively immediate shift, calming the nervous system, relaxing muscles, and
stimulating specific points, but that effect can fade between sessions if the underlying pattern is significant.
Herbal formulas taken daily provide ongoing support between visits, which is particularly valuable for chronic
conditions like digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, sleep problems, and stress that benefit from more
constant, sustained treatment rather than only a weekly reset.
Common Categories of Support
Bonafide Acupuncture’s herbal offerings span a wide range of formula categories, including support for
digestion, sleep, stress and adrenal health, immune function, musculoskeletal and joint health, women’s
hormonal health, and skin conditions, among others. A practitioner trained in herbal medicine, like Dr. Siraj, will
select and adjust formulas based on your intake and how your symptoms evolve over time.
Safety Considerations With Herbal Medicine

Report any unexpected reaction to your practitioner promptly
Explore Herbal Support at Bonafide Acupuncture
If you have been receiving acupuncture and want to explore how herbal medicine could deepen your results, or
if you are simply curious about the formulas available in the Bonafide Acupuncture shop, Dr. Siraj can walk you
through options suited to your specific needs. Visit the Prospect Heights or Bay Ridge location in Brooklyn, or
call (702) 907-7171 to learn more.

Always disclose all medications and supplements you are currently taking, since some herbs can interact with
pharmaceuticals

Purchase herbal formulas only from a licensed practitioner or reputable source, never from unverified online
sellers

Follow dosing guidance exactly as given rather than adjusting it yourself

Mention any pregnancy, planned pregnancy, or breastfeeding, since some herbs are not appropriate during
these times