Chinese Herbal Medicine: What to Expect from a Consultation

Many people come to Chinese herbal medicine after trying several routes and wanting a more individual conversation. They may be dealing with digestion, skin, tiredness, menstrual symptoms, respiratory issues, sleep, stress, or a pattern that does not fit neatly into one box.

Chinese herbal medicine is offered here by Greg Lampert, who has practised Chinese herbal medicine since 1995. The consultation is careful and practical. We start by understanding what is happening now, what has been tried already, and whether herbs are suitable for you.

The first conversation

Your first appointment gives time to talk through the main issue and the wider pattern of your health. Greg may ask about:

your current symptoms
when they began and how they change
medical diagnoses or investigations
medication and supplements
sleep, energy, appetite and digestion
temperature, sweating, thirst and mood
periods, fertility or menopause symptoms where relevant
stress, routine and lifestyle

In Chinese medicine, these details help us understand patterns. Two people may have the same named condition but need different prescriptions because the wider picture is different.

Pulse, tongue and observation

As with acupuncture, your practitioner may feel your pulse and look at your tongue. These are traditional parts of Chinese medicine assessment. They do not replace medical diagnosis, but they help guide the treatment plan within Chinese medicine.

If anything in your history suggests that medical care should come first, we will say so.

Individual prescriptions

Chinese herbal medicine is not a one-size-fits-all product. If herbs are appropriate, Greg will prescribe a formula for your individual presentation. That formula may be adjusted over time as symptoms change.

Herbs may be given as concentrated powders, pills or herbs to boil at home, depending on what is suitable and available. If you are prescribed herbs to prepare yourself, follow the instructions you are given. We also have a step-by-step guide to preparing your herbal medicine.

Safety and suitability

Please tell us about all medication, supplements and health conditions before starting herbs. This includes prescribed medication, over-the-counter medicines, anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, inhalers, hormonal medication and anything you take occasionally.

You should also tell us if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, due to have surgery, or have liver, kidney, immune or complex long-term health concerns.

Chinese herbs should be prescribed by a properly trained practitioner using reputable suppliers. Greg is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine, which sets standards for members and approved suppliers.

How long do herbs take?

There is no single answer. Some people notice changes quickly; others need a longer period of treatment. The length of treatment depends on the condition, how long it has been present, your general health and how you respond.

Your prescription should be reviewed. If things change, tell your practitioner. Do not keep taking herbs in a way that no longer matches your situation.

Can herbs be used alongside acupuncture?

Sometimes, yes. Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are separate therapies, but they are often thought about using similar principles. Some patients use one, some use the other, and some use both.

The right approach depends on the person. We will talk through what seems most appropriate rather than assuming everyone needs the same plan.

Questions to ask before starting

It is reasonable to ask:

Why are you recommending this prescription?
How should I take it?
What should I do if symptoms change?
Are there any medicines or supplements I should mention?
When will we review?
What should make me stop and contact you?

Good treatment should leave you clearer, not more confused.

Booking Chinese herbal medicine in Oxford

If you are considering Chinese herbal medicine, you can book a consultation with Greg Lampert at our central Oxford clinic. If you are unsure whether herbs are suitable, contact us first and ask.