Determining whether or not your patient is using Chinese herbal medicines in raw (decocted) or prepared forms requires sensitivity. Patients may be disinclined to provide this information even when asked directly. Making an open-ended inquiry couched in supportive terms is helpful. You may preface your inquiry with an encouraging generalization, such as: “I understand that in China there are many herbs that can be used to treat diseases. Some of them can be very helpful. Are there any herbs that you like to use? Are you taking any herbs or other medicines now?”
How to advise the patient concerning herb use is a matter of professional judgment. In the best case, it will be possible to communicate with the prescribing herbalist and explore any issues of concern. Many, but not all, practitioners of Chinese herbal medicine can address some Many clinicians choose the simple course and advise the patient to discontinue or moderate its use. Although this advice may seem to be the best course of action, it may reduce the quality of future communication with the patient or with other patients. Consequently, attempting to gain more information and informing the patient about the basis for your advice is important. Often, patients can help you learn more about why they are using herbs.
The resources listed in box 2 offer a first step in becoming more acquainted with aspects of Chinese herbal medicine.
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