Understanding Chinese Medicine & Qi Gong
Vital Health Zone is proud to announce Kay Hutchinson, who is our resident chinese medicine and qi gong expert and who is available to answer all your questions about chinese medicine and alternative health.
Kay has a private practice and is available for distance consultation, via telephone or email.
Kay answers all your chinese medicine and qi gong questions below:
Q: Last year I was diagnosed with prostatitis.
The specialist doctor I saw tried me on several prescription medicines but I was still having pain.
I did my own research on the internet and started taking some vitamins like saw palmetto and a few other over the counter vitamins, which, to me seemed to be working. When I went back to see this "specialist" and I mentioned that I was taking vitamins, he told me that I was wasting my money. Now I am in pain again so I would like to try some Chinese herbs.
Can you give me some advice? One site mentioned that I should have my testosterone level checked?
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A: Herbal medicine, whether western or Chinese, takes time to work (as long as up to 4 months). It is not immediate because the herbs work to resolve the underlying condition that are resulting in the inflammation of the prostate.
Also, diet plays a role too - if your diet is high in fat and low in fresh vegetables and fruit, or very high in red meats, you will not get results with herbs without also adjusting the diet. Exercise is also important as this helps to increase circulation to the prostate to promote healing. Walking 30 minutes each day or doing gentle exercise such as qi gong or tai chi are ideal.
So many clients think they can just take herbs but not adjust lifestyle, but one needs to address all factors that impact the prostate to see results.
You did not mention your PSA levels. If you haven't already seen a specialist (not just a general practitioner), that would be wise and get your PSA levels checked along with testosterone.
Also, you do not mention if there are any other health issues. The existence of other health issues determines greatly what specific formulation of herbs will work best for you.
Three formulas that I have used in my practice are Prostate Blend by Gaia Brand and the others are Wu Ling San Pian or Qian Lie Shu Wan by Active Herb or Plum Flower (two brands certified free of heavy metals, sulfites and other toxins).
As I always caution, many Chinese herbs on the market contain harmful ingredients, so unless you see G.M.P. certified on the bottle, it may be tainted product and could harm your health.
Also, I do not recommend trying to self-treat with herbs as often that is ineffective and may create additional health concerns especially if you are taking other medications. Please consult with a locally trained herbalist for guidance or you may contact me for a distance consultation.
Determining which formulation is appropriate for you can only be determined by an herbalist who conducts a more thorough review of all your health issues and manifestations and other substances you may be taking into the body.
Keep in mind that for prostate conditions, a special formulation is necessary, as using one single herb by itself (like saw palmetto) is not effective - so yes, just taking saw palmetto is not the best use of your health budget. Good luck with your healing journey.
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Consult with your medical physician regarding appropriateness of using herbs in your healing process.
Contact Kay Hutchinson, CAMQ, CAMT at Aiki Healing today for a consultation for a custom herbal formulation.
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Enjoy better health!
