Herbal Medicine Guide

Questions & Answers

Practical guidance on how to take granulated herbs and herbal pills, what to avoid, and how to support your treatment through food, rest, and daily habits.

Before You Start

Please follow your practitioner’s instructions. If you feel unwell, stop taking the herbs and seek medical advice when needed.

What Are granulated herbs?

Granulated herbs are concentrated, water-soluble extracts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs.

They are made by:
  • Boiling raw herbs into a decoction
  • Spray-drying the liquid into powder or granules
  • Often including a small amount of starch as a carrier
Why use them?
  • Convenient alternative to traditional herbal teas
  • No long boiling required
  • Simply dissolve in hot water and drink
How do I take granulated herbs?
  • Measure the prescribed number of flat spoons into a cup.
  • Add around 150 ml of hot water. Do not microwave.
  • Stir well and drink the mixture.
  • It is okay if some granules do not fully dissolve.
When to take:
  • Option 1: Take twice daily, 40 minutes after meals.
  • Option 2: Choose any two times: 10 AM, 4 PM, or 9 PM.
Important:
  • Do not take on an empty stomach.
  • Do not take within 1 hour before sleep.
How do I take herbal pills?

Take the prescribed amount with warm water.

Timing options:
  • Option 1: Twice daily, 40 minutes after meals.
  • Option 2: Choose two times from 10 AM, 4 PM, or 9 PM.
Important:
  • Avoid taking herbal pills when hungry.
  • Avoid taking herbal pills within 1 hour before sleep.
What if I experience side effects?
Some people may experience:
  • Temporary worsening of symptoms
  • Mild allergic reactions
  • Stomach discomfort or cramping
  • Loose stools
  • Nausea
Rare but possible:
  • Interaction with medications
  • Effects on blood pressure, liver, or kidney function
  • Changes in bleeding, clotting, or hormones
What to do:
  • Stop taking the herbs.
  • Seek medical advice if symptoms are unexpected or severe.
What should I be aware of while taking herbs?
Healthy eating:
  • Eat warm, light, simple, and moderate meals.
  • Warm: avoid cold food and drinks.
  • Light: reduce salty, spicy, sweet, and sour foods.
  • Simple: choose one main dish with one to two sides.
  • Moderate: eat until around 70% full.
Focus on:
  • Grains
  • Vegetables
  • Minimal meat
How should I manage sleep and lifestyle?
Sleep well:
  • Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep.
  • The recommended routine is to sleep by 10 PM and wake by 6 AM.

Foods to Avoid While Taking Herbs

These foods may be unsuitable during herbal treatment depending on your condition and prescription.

Raw or cold foods

  • Raw or cold foods
  • Fermented glutinous rice
  • Pickles
  • Persimmon

Fried & Spicy

  • Fried foods
  • Spicy foods
  • Chili

Poultry

  • Chicken head Goose meat
  • Goose meat

Seafood

  • Shrimp
  • Crab
  • Hairtail
  • Yellow croaker
  • Pomfret
  • Shellfish

Red Meats & Exotic Meats

  • Lamb
  • Beef, especially for skin conditions
  • Pig head meat

Certain Vegetables & Herbs

  • Taro
  • Chinese chives
  • Mustard greens
  • Bamboo shoots
  • Eggplantq

Tropical & Hot-Natured Fruits

  • Apricots
  • Durian
  • Pineapple
  • Mango
  • Bayberry
  • Lychee

Alcohol

  • Alcoholic drinks

Rest, Lifestyle & Emotional Wellbeing

Herbal treatment works best when supported by steady routines, adequate rest, and calm daily habits.

Rest & Lifestyle

Balance work and rest, avoid overworking, keep warm after sweating, and avoid smoking.

Emotional Wellbeing

Maintain a positive mood, stay calm and relaxed, and avoid anger and stress where possible.