What Is Body Aches (D) Supplement?
Body Aches (D) Supplement is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed to support relief from whole body aches, cold-induced muscle discomfort, body stiffness, joint discomfort, shoulder and arm tension, lower back discomfort, and muscle soreness associated with Cold, Dampness, and Blood Stasis patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), persistent body aches and stiffness may occur when Cold and Dampness obstruct the meridians and interfere with the healthy circulation of Qi and Blood. When circulation becomes restricted, muscles and joints may feel stiff, heavy, sore, tight, or uncomfortable, particularly during cold or damp weather.
Blood Stasis may further contribute to fixed or localized discomfort that repeatedly affects the same area. These patterns may involve the whole body or commonly affect the shoulders, arms, neck, lower back, legs, muscles, and joints. Individuals may notice that their body aches become more noticeable with cold temperatures, rainy weather, inactivity, or prolonged exposure to damp environments.
Body Aches (D) is based on traditional Chinese herbal principles and contains carefully selected herbs traditionally used to invigorate Blood, promote healthy circulation of Qi and Blood, dispel Wind and Dampness, open the meridians, and support comfortable movement. This formula is commonly chosen by individuals seeking natural herbal support for whole body aches, cold-induced muscle pain, body stiffness, muscle and joint discomfort, and recurring aches associated with Cold-Damp and Blood Stasis patterns.*
Common Signs of Cold-Damp Body Aches and Blood Stasis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Whole body aches or muscle soreness
- Cold-induced muscle pain and stiffness
- Body aches that worsen during cold or damp weather
- Body pain that improves with warmth
- Shoulder and arm discomfort
- Lower back and leg discomfort
- Muscle tightness and joint stiffness
- Morning stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Fixed discomfort that repeatedly occurs in the same area
- Heavy, stiff, or uncomfortable muscles and joints
- Reduced flexibility or difficulty moving comfortably
- Shoulder stiffness and limited comfortable movement
- Aches associated with Dampness accumulation
- Muscle tightness after prolonged inactivity
- Recurring body stiffness
- Poor circulation of Qi and Blood
- Feeling cold in the muscles and joints
- General musculoskeletal discomfort
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Body Aches (D)?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Designed for Cold-Damp and Blood Stasis body ache patterns
- Traditionally used to invigorate Blood and promote healthy circulation
- Helps dispel Wind and Dampness and support open meridian pathways
- Supports comfortable muscles, joints, shoulders, lower back, and whole-body movement
- Designed to address the underlying TCM pattern rather than temporarily masking occasional discomfort
- Traditional honey-bound herbal pills
Suggested Combination for Whole Body Aches, Muscle Pain and Body Stiffness
For individuals experiencing recurring whole body aches, cold-induced muscle discomfort, joint stiffness, weakness, fatigue, or body aches that become more noticeable during cold and damp weather, Body Aches (D) may be paired with Spleen Support, Kidney Yin Support, and Immune Booster for more comprehensive support based on the individual's Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, persistent muscle and joint discomfort may involve more than obstruction of the meridians. The Spleen influences the muscles and transformation of fluids, the Kidney helps nourish the bones, lower back, and body's deeper reserves, and defensive Qi helps protect the exterior from environmental influences such as Wind and Cold. Supporting these underlying systems may be especially important when body aches are recurrent or accompanied by weakness and fatigue.
Spleen Support is traditionally used when body aches occur together with heaviness, fatigue, weak digestion, bloating, loose stools, fluid retention, or Dampness. Strengthening Spleen and Stomach Qi supports healthy transformation of food and fluids, helps reduce the accumulation of Dampness, and provides Qi and Blood needed to nourish the muscles.
Kidney Support Yin is traditionally recommended when recurring body aches or stiffness occur with lower back or knee weakness, long-term depletion, dryness, night sweats, or other signs of Kidney Yin deficiency. In TCM, the Kidney governs the bones and stores Essence, making healthy Kidney function important for maintaining the body's deeper structural nourishment and long-term vitality.
Immune Booster is traditionally used to strengthen Lung Qi and defensive Qi (Wei Qi), particularly for individuals who are sensitive to cold, wind, seasonal changes, or environmental conditions. Supporting defensive Qi helps maintain the body's exterior defenses and overall resilience.
Together, Body Aches (D), Spleen Support, Kidney Yin Support, and Immune Booster provide a comprehensive TCM approach by supporting healthy circulation of Qi and Blood, clearing Dampness, strengthening Spleen function, nourishing Kidney Yin, supporting defensive Qi, and promoting comfortable muscles, joints, and whole-body movement.*
Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | No refined sugar, corn, or dairy | No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, chemical binders, or wax
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, and packaged in the USA
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Benefits of Body Aches Supplement
Supports Whole-Body Comfort and Muscle Wellness*
Body Aches Supplement is traditionally used to support healthy muscles, joints, and circulation in individuals experiencing whole-body aches, muscle discomfort, stiffness, and cold-induced body pain. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, these concerns may develop when Cold, Dampness, and Blood Stasis restrict the normal circulation of Qi and Blood.
Supports Comfort During Cold-Induced Muscle Pain and Stiffness*
Cold weather, damp environments, inactivity, or prolonged physical strain may contribute to muscle tightness, stiffness, and discomfort. This formula is traditionally used to warm the channels, promote healthy circulation, and support comfortable movement throughout the body.
Promotes Healthy Circulation of Qi and Blood*
Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches that the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood is essential for maintaining physical comfort and flexibility. This formula is traditionally used to promote circulation and address Blood Stasis patterns associated with fixed discomfort, stiffness, and restricted movement.
Helps Resolve Dampness According to Traditional Chinese Medicine*
Dampness may contribute to heaviness, stiffness, occasional swelling, and reduced mobility. This formula is traditionally used to dispel Dampness, support healthy fluid balance, and promote greater physical comfort.
Supports Healthy Joint Flexibility and Mobility*
Healthy movement depends on the free circulation of Qi and Blood throughout the muscles, tendons, joints, and meridians. This formula is traditionally used to support flexibility, range of motion, comfortable movement, and overall joint wellness.
Helps Reduce Feelings of Physical Stiffness*
Some individuals experience stiffness after prolonged sitting, physical inactivity, exposure to cold or damp weather, or demanding physical activity. This formula is traditionally used to support open meridian pathways, healthy circulation, and greater ease of movement.
Supports Healthy Muscles and Tendons*
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy muscles and tendons require proper nourishment and the smooth movement of Qi and Blood. This formula is traditionally used to support muscle comfort, tendon flexibility, and normal physical function.
Supports Healthy Recovery Following Physical Activity*
Daily activity, repetitive movement, exercise, and physically demanding work may place stress on the muscles and soft tissues. This formula is traditionally used to support recovery, maintain healthy circulation, and promote physical comfort following exertion.
Promotes Long-Term Musculoskeletal Wellness*
Traditional Chinese herbal formulas have long been used to support healthy muscles, tendons, joints, circulation, and mobility. By addressing Cold, Dampness, and Blood Stasis patterns, this formula supports long-term physical comfort, flexibility, and overall musculoskeletal wellness.
Individual results may vary. Benefits often develop gradually as circulation and internal balance are supported.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Common Signs You May Need Body Aches (D) Supplement
This formula is most appropriate for Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns associated with Cold-Damp obstruction, Blood Stasis, and restricted circulation affecting the muscles, tendons, joints, and meridian pathways. Individual patterns may vary and can include:
Whole-Body Muscle Aches
Persistent aching may affect the shoulders, back, arms, hips, legs, or multiple areas of the body. When Cold and Dampness restrict the circulation of Qi and Blood, the muscles may feel sore, tight, uncomfortable, or difficult to move freely.
Body Pain That Worsens in Cold or Damp Weather
Muscle aches, joint discomfort, and stiffness may become more noticeable during cold temperatures, rainy weather, air conditioning, or exposure to damp environments. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, improvement with warmth is commonly associated with a Cold-Damp pattern.
Muscle Stiffness and Limited Flexibility
The muscles may feel tight, rigid, or difficult to stretch, particularly after waking, remaining in one position, or being exposed to cold conditions. Movement may gradually become more comfortable as circulation increases.
Shoulder, Neck, and Back Stiffness
The shoulders, neck, upper back, or lower back may feel tight, stiff, or uncomfortable. Some individuals may also experience restricted shoulder movement or frozen shoulder patterns that make lifting or reaching with the arms more difficult.
General Joint Discomfort
Occasional discomfort may affect the knees, elbows, wrists, fingers, ankles, hips, or other joints. Stiffness and aching may improve with warmth, gentle movement, or increased circulation.
Heavy or Sluggish Feeling in the Body
Cold and Dampness may produce a sensation of heaviness throughout the muscles and limbs. Individuals may feel physically weighed down, sluggish, tired, or restricted during movement.
Reduced Mobility and Range of Motion
Walking, bending, climbing stairs, reaching overhead, exercising, or changing positions may become less comfortable because of muscle tightness, joint stiffness, or restricted circulation.
Recurring Muscle and Joint Discomfort
Body aches may improve temporarily but repeatedly return during seasonal changes, cold or damp weather, periods of inactivity, physical stress, or insufficient rest. In TCM, recurring discomfort may indicate that the underlying obstruction has not been fully resolved.
Discomfort Following Physical Activity or Overexertion
Heavy lifting, repetitive movements, prolonged standing, sports, exercise, or physically demanding work may contribute to lingering muscle soreness, stiffness, and reduced flexibility when healthy circulation has been disrupted.
Individuals with complex, recurring, or long-standing patterns of body aches, muscle stiffness, joint discomfort, or restricted mobility may benefit from additional herbal support selected according to their constitution and underlying Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Body Aches, Muscle Pain and Stiffness
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), comfortable movement depends on the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood through the muscles, tendons, joints, and meridian pathways. Cold, Dampness, physical overexertion, and prolonged inactivity may obstruct circulation and contribute to body aches, muscle tightness, stiffness, heaviness, and reduced mobility.
Daily Habits to Support Muscle and Joint Comfort
For best results while using Body Aches (D) Supplement:
- Stay physically active with regular walking, stretching, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, or other gentle exercises.
- Stretch before and after physical activity to support flexibility and comfortable movement.
- Keep the body, muscles, and joints warm, especially during cold or damp weather.
- Avoid prolonged sitting or remaining in one position for extended periods.
- Maintain good posture while sitting, standing, working, and lifting.
- Get adequate sleep and allow sufficient time for rest and recovery after strenuous activity.
- Stay hydrated with warm or room-temperature water.
- Eat regular, balanced meals at consistent times.
- Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, relaxation, or other calming practices.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals with Cold-Damp body aches, muscle stiffness, or restricted circulation may benefit from limiting:
- Cold or iced beverages
- Excessive raw or cold foods
- Highly processed foods
- Deep-fried, greasy, or heavy foods
- Excess sugar and sugary beverages
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Prolonged exposure to cold, wind, or damp environments
- Physical overexertion without adequate rest and recovery
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Circulation and Musculoskeletal Wellness
A balanced diet may include warm soups, bone broth, ginger, garlic, onions, cooked vegetables, whole grains, sweet potatoes, dates, walnuts, black sesame, lean proteins, and other nourishing foods appropriate for the individual.
From a TCM perspective, warm, freshly prepared foods help support Spleen and Stomach Qi, healthy digestion, and the production of Qi and Blood. Adequate nourishment helps maintain healthy circulation and provides support for the muscles, tendons, and joints.
Supporting Muscle and Joint Comfort from Within
Traditional Chinese Medicine views body aches, muscle stiffness, joint discomfort, circulation, digestion, and constitutional strength as closely connected. Regular movement, proper nutrition, adequate rest, warmth, stress management, and healthy digestion can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support long-term muscle comfort, flexibility, mobility, and physical resilience.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution, activity level, digestive health, and underlying Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Body Aches (D) Supplement
Body Aches contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to support healthy circulation, warm the body, promote comfortable movement, and maintain musculoskeletal wellness according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Large Leaf Gentian Root
Traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to help dispel wind and dampness, support comfortable joints and muscles, and maintain flexibility. Large Leaf Gentian Root is commonly included in formulas designed to support body aches, stiffness, and reduced mobility associated with cold and damp patterns.
Notopterygium Root
Traditionally used to help disperse wind and cold, support healthy circulation, and maintain comfort in the neck, shoulders, back, and joints. Notopterygium Root has long been used to promote mobility and relieve discomfort associated with exposure to cold weather.
Peach Seed
Traditionally used to promote the healthy circulation of Blood, help resolve Blood stagnation, and support normal movement throughout the body. Peach Seed is frequently included in formulas that help maintain healthy muscles, joints, and overall circulation.
Szechuan Lovage Root
Traditionally used to promote the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood throughout the body. Szechuan Lovage Root is one of the most widely used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support healthy circulation, muscle comfort, flexibility, and physical wellness.
Licorice Root
Traditionally used to harmonize herbal formulas, support healthy digestion, and help maintain normal muscle function. Licorice Root is commonly included to balance the actions of the other herbs while supporting overall wellness.
Pure Honey
Used as the traditional binding agent for Silkie Herbs honey-bound herbal pills. Honey has historically been used to harmonize herbal formulas, support digestion, help preserve freshness, and improve palatability.
Together, these herbs have traditionally been used to support healthy circulation of Qi and Blood, promote comfortable muscles and joints, reduce body stiffness, warm the body, and maintain long-term mobility and musculoskeletal wellness.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Serving Size: 10 pills Servings Per Container: 30 Amount Per Serving: 3,000 mg |
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Herbal Blend: Large Leaf Gentian Root Notopterygium Root Peach Seed Szechuan Lovage Root Licorice Root |
| Other ingredient: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Body Aches (D) Supplement
Adults or teenagers may take 1–10 pills once or twice daily with warm water, or as directed by a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner. If taking medications or other supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Recovery from chronic body aches, muscle stiffness, and cold-induced discomfort is influenced by circulation, physical activity, rest, nutrition, and overall wellness. Individual response depends on constitution, duration of the pattern, symptom severity, lifestyle habits, and consistency of use. Traditional herbal support may develop gradually with continued use as directed.
For best results, take consistently as directed. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas are often used daily as part of a long-term wellness routine.
Research on Herbs in Body Aches (D) Supplement
Modern research has examined herbs used in Body Aches (D) Supplement, particularly Large Leaf Gentian Root (Qin Jiao), Notopterygium Root (Qiang Huo), Peach Seed (Tao Ren), Szechuan Lovage Root (Chuan Xiong), and Licorice Root (Gan Cao). Published reviews and experimental studies have explored their traditional uses, phytochemistry, antioxidant activity, inflammatory-response pathways, circulation-related activity, mobility support, and other biological properties.
Research on Large Leaf Gentian Root and related Gentiana species has examined iridoids, flavonoids, xanthones, and other naturally occurring compounds. Studies have investigated their antioxidant activity, influence on normal inflammatory-response pathways, and traditional applications in formulas supporting muscles, joints, mobility, and physical comfort.
Research involving Peach Seed and Szechuan Lovage Root has explored their naturally occurring compounds and traditional roles in supporting healthy Blood circulation. Notopterygium Root has been studied for compounds associated with inflammatory-response pathways and musculoskeletal comfort, while Licorice Root has been investigated for its antioxidant and immune-regulating activities and its traditional role in harmonizing multi-herb formulas.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Body Aches (D) Supplement is formulated for patterns involving Wind-Cold-Damp obstruction, Blood Stasis, and blockage of the channels and collaterals. The herbs are traditionally combined to dispel Wind, Cold, and Dampness, promote healthy circulation of Qi and Blood, open the channels, relieve stiffness, and support comfortable movement.
Current research applies to the individual herbs and their naturally occurring compounds. It should not be interpreted as clinical proof that the finished Body Aches (D) formula diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents any disease.
Research References
Editorial: Herbal Medicines in Pain Management (Frontiers in Pharmacology)
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.955743/full
Medicinal, Biological and Phytochemical Properties of Gentiana Species
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5634738/
Large Leaf Gentian (Gentiana macrophylla) as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/322401376_Large_leaf_gentian_as_a_promising_source_of_biologically_active_substances
Why Silkie Herbs
Silkie formulas are rooted in five generations of traditional herbal practice—not trend-based supplement marketing.
- 5th-Generation Herbalist Family Tradition
- Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas
- Traditional Honey-Bound Herbal Pills
- No Capsules
- No Compressed Tablets
- No Artificial Binders or Fillers
- No Lubricants or Flow Agents
- Made in the USA
- Third-Party Tested
- Carefully Selected Medicinal Herbs
- Traditional Herb Preparation Methods (Pao Zhi)
- Classical Formula Design
Silkie Herbs formulas are rooted in five generations of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal practice. Rather than following supplement trends, our formulas are based on traditional herbal principles passed down through generations and refined through decades of practical experience.
Unlike most modern supplements, Silkie Herbs uses traditional honey-bound herbal pills instead of capsules or compressed tablets. We do not use capsule shells, artificial fillers, synthetic binders, lubricants, flow agents, chemical coatings, or wax. Pure honey is used as the only binding agent to form the finely ground herbs into small traditional pills.
Modern research has examined honey’s naturally low water activity, acidity, and antimicrobial characteristics. In Silkie formulas, honey is used primarily as a traditional binding agent, while the quality and purity of every finished formula are verified through third-party testing.
Every formula is manufactured in the United States using carefully selected medicinal herbs and traditional preparation methods. Each batch undergoes third-party testing for identity, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants to help ensure quality and consistency.
True healing takes time. Silkie formulas honor the body’s natural ability to restore balance—the way herbal medicine has always been practiced.
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, and packaged in the USA
Important Safety Information and Cautions
Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed. If discomfort or irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek professional guidance.
Traditional Chinese herbal formulas should be selected according to the individual’s Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern. For personalized guidance, consult a professional TCM practitioner.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
Traditional Herbs in Body Aches (D)
Large Leaf Gentian Root
Large Leaf Gentian Root (Qin Jiao) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to dispel Wind-Dampness, relax the tendons, and support comfortable movement. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Wind-Damp obstruction patterns associated with body aches, muscle and joint stiffness, heaviness, and reduced flexibility.
Traditional Herbs in Body Aches (D)
Large Leaf Gentian Root
Large Leaf Gentian Root (Qin Jiao) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to dispel Wind-Dampness, relax the tendons, and support comfortable movement. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Wind-Damp obstruction patterns associated with body aches, muscle and joint stiffness, heaviness, and reduced flexibility.
Notopterygium Root
Notopterygium Root (Qiang Huo) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to dispel Wind, Cold, and Dampness while supporting open meridian pathways. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Cold-Damp patterns associated with body aches, stiffness, and discomfort affecting the neck, shoulders, upper back, and joints.
Peach Seed
Peach Seed (Tao Ren) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to invigorate Blood, dispel Blood Stasis, and promote healthy circulation. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Blood Stasis patterns associated with fixed discomfort, restricted circulation, stiffness, and recurring muscle or joint discomfort.
Szechuan Lovage Root
Szechuan Lovage Root (Chuan Xiong) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to invigorate Blood, move Qi, and promote healthy circulation throughout the channels. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Qi and Blood Stagnation patterns associated with body aches, muscle tightness, stiffness, restricted movement, and recurring discomfort.
honey is the only binding agent
no artificial fillers or ingredients
herbs harvested at the height of potency
100% Natural
Our herbal supplements are made with natural honey as the binder. Honey can support the lungs, intestine, spleen, and stomach; It works as a natural preservative with antibacterial and healing properties. Unlike other herbal supplement companies that use starch, magnesium, and other chemical substances as binders for their supplements, we only use 100% honey. We also avoid using vegetable capsules because they require chemical components to form the capsule shape.
Peak Harvest Herbs
The herbs in our herbal pill blends are harvested at the height of their potency and they are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre-or post-season, but in our view, there is no substitute for premium quality.
5 Generations
Over five generations we have collected, tested and refined Chinese herbal formulas that themselves draw from 3,000 years of experience of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a profound pathway to create the life you were born to live. It's a timeless bridge that can initiate and support change and growth in any and every life dimension: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Message From Ann
“Good Health is crucial for our overall well-being. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects, and it's important to prioritize taking care of ourselves to lead a fulfilling life. Emphasizing prevention over cure is paramount for maintaining this balance. Without health, life can become incredibly challenging. It affects our ability to pursue our goals, enjoy our relationships, and experience daily life to the fullest. Good health forms the foundation for everything else we want to achieve and experience.” - Ann Tam
Click below for
Ann's Story
If you feel skeptical or unsure about Chinese herbal remedies, I could hardly blame you. I wasn’t a believer either—not until my daughter became very sick and my father, a fourth-generation herbalist, helped guide our family through her recovery with traditional Chinese herbs.
I was born into a family of herbalists. My father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather were all herbalists. I represent the fifth generation of this long family lineage, which dates back to Imperial China.
When I was three or four years old, I began learning herbal songs and how to identify different herbs. As I grew older, my father taught me how to process herbs while I worked in his clinic in Vietnam.
After we immigrated to the United States, my dad asked whether I wanted to pursue a career in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herbalist or acupuncturist. I told him, “No, just leave me alone, Dad. I will find something I enjoy doing for work.” So he left me alone to find my own way.
I wanted nothing to do with herbal medicine until I gave birth to my second daughter, Catherine, who was born with severe gastric reflux. When Catherine was only 10 days old, I had to take her to the emergency room because she couldn’t keep milk down. She received fluids through an IV in her tiny hand. In addition to vomiting, she was also having diarrhea. Catherine was losing nourishment from both ends, and her little body was becoming smaller and weaker.
At the time, my dad warned me, “She needs to be treated with herbal medicine, or she may have seizures later.” I didn’t fully understand what he was telling me, so I ignored his warning.
My daughter became so ill that she could only drink half an ounce of milk each hour. Before feeding her, I used a syringe to give her Zantac to help reduce the vomiting. As time passed, she needed to be fed more frequently and consequently received Zantac more often. By the time Catherine was eight months old, she needed to be fed and medicated as many as 11 times a day.
I could hardly sleep, eat, shower, or rest. Even at night, I had to drape my daughter over my shoulder so she could sleep. If I put Catherine down, she would vomit. I barely had time to take a five-minute shower once or twice a week. I was exhausted, but what could I do? I had to care for my daughter and do my best to survive each day, hoping she would get better—or at the very least, that her condition would not worsen.
Catherine had to wear a turtleneck, two sweaters, a baby cap, and a scarf whenever we went outside, even during the summer when the temperature was over 100 degrees. If I didn’t cover her, she would develop a runny nose and cough, followed by nonstop vomiting. I constantly worried about her future. How would she ever attend school or go anywhere with air conditioning?
One day, we went to a Vietnamese pho restaurant. After placing Catherine in a high chair, I turned around to adjust my own chair. Suddenly, I heard a woman shout, “Look at her!”
I looked in the direction she was pointing. It was Catherine. Her eyes had rolled upward, her entire body was stiff and shaking, and fluid was coming from her mouth. Someone nearby told me to squeeze lemon into her mouth. Frightened and desperate, I followed that advice without hesitation. Her body eventually relaxed, and we rushed her to the emergency room.
At the time, I believed the lemon had helped her. I now understand that nothing should be placed in a person’s mouth during a seizure because it could cause injury or choking. I share this only as part of what happened that day—not as seizure first-aid advice.
Catherine remained in the hospital for three days while her brain activity was monitored. I was told that prolonged seizures could be dangerous. After that experience, I lived in constant fear because I had no idea when my baby girl might have another seizure.
The seizures began occurring weekly, and the doctor prescribed anti-seizure medication. Catherine wasn’t even one year old, yet she was receiving Zantac as many as 11 times a day, in addition to anti-seizure medication three times a day. Administering the medicine was extremely difficult because whenever I took out the syringe, she would cry and begin vomiting.
I took Catherine to see a specialist at CHOC and asked, “Doctor, have you ever seen an infant with this condition get well?”
The doctor replied, “It depends. Some children grow out of it, but some don’t. If they don’t, they may have to continue taking medication.”
“What do you mean by ‘grow out of it’?” I asked.
The doctor explained that Catherine’s condition might improve naturally as she became older.
My mind was racing. I asked, “All this time, the prescribed medication hasn’t been correcting what is happening in her stomach?”
The doctor explained that the medication was intended to help keep the food down, which was why it had to be given before each feeding.
I then asked, “What if she doesn’t grow out of it?”
I was told that she might need ongoing medication. That conversation stayed in my mind and made me question whether there might be another way to support my daughter.
Feeling that I had reached the end of the path I was following, I finally turned to my dad for help.
My father recommended an individualized herbal prescription for Catherine three times a day. After everything we had been through, giving her herbs three times a day instead of administering something as many as 14 times a day felt like a tremendous relief. Even so, it sounded almost too good to be true, and I remained cautious.
During the first month of following my father’s herbal approach, Catherine began vomiting less frequently. At one point, I let her cry briefly to see whether it would still trigger vomiting. It didn’t, and that was when I first believed she might truly be improving.
After another month, Catherine was able to wear fewer layers without immediately developing a runny nose, coughing, or vomiting. Over the course of approximately three months, her reflux and seizure episodes became less frequent and eventually stopped.
This was Catherine’s personal experience under my father’s individualized guidance. It is not a promise that another person will have the same experience, but for our family, it changed everything. Today, Catherine is grown and living a normal, healthy life.
Because of Catherine’s dramatic recovery, I finally began to believe in the traditional medicine that had surrounded me since childhood. I also asked my dad to work with me because I had a long history of fainting easily, especially during the winter. My own experience with his individualized herbal approach deepened my appreciation for the knowledge my family had preserved for generations.
I began thinking seriously about everything that had happened and wanted to understand more about herbs, the human body, and the traditional principles my father had tried to teach me. I wanted answers, so I decided to study in China, where herbal medicine has been practiced and developed over thousands of years.
I attended Traditional Chinese Medicine schools in China and Hong Kong and gained experience in TCM hospitals, where I learned from highly respected herbal doctors.
While I was there, I realized that I wanted to become an herbalist. However, I also wondered how I could secure a dependable supply of high-quality herbs. My father and I traveled across China and visited numerous farming regions. We met with farmers, studied how the herbs were grown and harvested, and began establishing relationships with growers.
Our formulas are made with carefully selected herbs harvested during the appropriate season, when their traditional qualities are considered strongest. These herbs can be substantially more expensive than lower-quality materials harvested too early or too late.
After returning to the United States, I worked closely with my dad, learned from his many years of experience, and studied the formulas and written knowledge passed down through our family.
Everything I went through with Catherine helped me understand the true importance of health. Without health, it becomes difficult to think about a career, beauty, education, independence, freedom, or anything else we hope to enjoy in life.
I have now worked with many individuals and families who have struggled as my family once struggled. Their trust and heartfelt appreciation inspire me to continue learning, preserve my family’s traditional knowledge, and work even harder to help others support their health and well-being.
Our namesake, Silkie, comes from a Chinese breed of chicken known for its calm and friendly temperament. Silkies are gentle, caring, and devoted mothers. A Silkie loves nothing more than brooding over a cluster of eggs, whether the eggs are her own or even belong to a duck.
We share that same outlook at Silkie Herbs®. We care for our clients with the same attention, patience, and dedication that we would give to members of our own family.
This is Ann’s personal family story and is shared for informational purposes only. Individual experiences vary, and this story is not intended as medical advice or as a promise of specific results.