As a doctor, I often hear patients complain:
"I've taken several pairs of Chinese medicine, why doesn't it have any effect at all?"
Indeed, many people have expectations for TCM and hope to see the results quickly, but it often backfires.
In fact, there is an important principle of TCM treatment hidden behind this -
Each person's constitution is different, and the causes and stages of each disease are also different, so the treatment method and time required will naturally vary.
So, why do some people feel that the effect is not obvious after taking Chinese medicine?
There are many reasons for this.
1. Efficacy grading so that you know what to expect
In fact, there is a rough classification of the efficacy of Chinese medicine.
Generally speaking, we can divide it into three levels: short-term, medium-term, and long-term.
Short-term results: These drugs are usually used for acute conditions, such as colds, fevers, etc.
Patients often feel significant improvement within a short period of time after taking it.
Medium-term effect: For some chronic diseases or sub-health conditions, the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine is relatively slow.
Patients may need to take it continuously for a period of time (e.g., one month to three months) before they can gradually feel better.
Long-term effect: For some deep-seated, long-term accumulated problems, such as endocrine disorders, immune system disorders, etc., the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine is more durable and stable.
Patients may need to take it consistently for a long time to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
2. Whole body conditioning, focusing on balance
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the human body is an organic whole, and the various organs and meridians are interrelated.
Treating the disease is not only about eliminating the superficial symptoms, but also about adjusting the inner balance.
Traditional Chinese medicine is to achieve the purpose of treating diseases by adjusting the balance of qi and blood, yin and yang, and the five elements of the human body.
This process takes time and patience and cannot be rushed.
So how should we take Chinese medicine correctly to achieve the best results?
How to take Chinese medicine correctly
In order to get the best out of Chinese medicine, in addition to being patient, you also need to pay attention to the following points:
Understand the properties of traditional Chinese medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine occupies an important position in modern medicine due to its unique pharmacological effects and therapeutic effects.
However, the use of Chinese medicine is not simply swallowing pills or pills, but requires the selection of appropriate herbs and dosage forms according to the specific illness and individual constitution, and through the appropriate decoction and consumption methods, in order to exert the maximum efficacy.
Correct decoction of Chinese medicine
Decoction of Chinese medicine is a common method of using Chinese medicine.
When decocting, first make sure to use a clean container and pure water.
According to the dosage given by the doctor or herbalist, put the Chinese herb and water into a pot, bring it to a boil over high heat, and then turn to low heat and cook for a while until the water turns brown or dark yellow.
During this process, stir constantly so that the herbs do not stick to the bottom of the pot or burn.
Take Chinese medicine correctly
The duration of taking Chinese medicine depends on the condition and the nature of the drug.
For example, when taking medicine on an empty stomach, cold medicine or drugs with heavy flavors may cause some damage to the gastric mucosa.
Different Chinese herbs have different taking times.
肝、肾、肠道疾患，宜饭前服药；
Dizziness and throat diseases should be taken after meals;
Laxatives, tonics, and anthelmintic drugs should be taken on an empty stomach;
Tranquilizers should be taken before bedtime.
Precautions
As directed by your doctor:
Be sure to take Chinese medicine according to your doctor's instructions, and do not increase or decrease the dosage or change the way you take the medicine.
Obituary:
During the period of taking Chinese medicine, it is necessary to avoid eating spicy, greasy, raw and cold and other irritating foods as much as possible to avoid affecting the efficacy of the medicine.
Hang on:
The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine is gradually apparent, and patients need to take it consistently for a long time to see the effect.
In general, the correct use of Chinese medicine requires a comprehensive consideration of the nature of the drug, the patient's specific situation, and the doctor's advice.
Only in this way can we ensure that TCM exerts its maximum efficacy and helps patients recover their health.
When to stop taking Chinese medicines
The timing of discontinuation of TCM usually depends on a variety of factors, including the type of disease, the specific type of TCM, the patient's physical condition, and the doctor's guidance.
Here are some basic principles and recommendations:
Types of Diseases:
For some acute diseases, such as colds, fevers, etc., Chinese medicine usually starts to take effect within 2-3 days.
For chronic diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, etc., it may take 2-3 weeks to see the effect.
If you don't see any results after taking it for more than a month, you may need to reassess whether it's appropriate to continue taking it.
Types of Chinese Medicine:
Some traditional Chinese medicines are used to clear away heat and detoxify, and such drugs should be stopped immediately after the symptoms of fire have reduced or disappeared, generally not more than three days.
On the other hand, nourishing Chinese medicines, such as those that nourish yin and yang, can be taken for a longer period of time, but not the full dose is not required every time.
Physical Condition:
For some special circumstances, such as women during menstruation, it is generally recommended to stop taking Chinese medicine.
In addition, if there is an uncomfortable reaction, such as allergies, abnormal liver and kidney function, etc., it is also necessary to stop the drug immediately and seek medical attention in time.
Doctor's Guidance:
The most important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions.
The doctor will give personalized advice on stopping the drug according to the patient's specific condition and the effect of traditional Chinese medicine.
Overall, the correct timing of discontinuation should be assessed and guided by the physician on a case-by-case basis.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should consult your doctor promptly
Remember, health is an attitude to life, and health is a lifelong career.