An empirical herbal blend specifically crafted to address hernia symptoms, including one or both testicles being swollen, feeling hard as stone, or accompanied by dull pain when standing up. This formula helps relieve associated nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pressure in the groin area. It also alleviates intestinal obstruction, pain around the umbilical region, and bowel blockage, often presenting as a lump or bulge in the inner groin. By increasing Qi and stopping pain, it works to soften firm mucus and provide relief. For best results, combine with the Energy Endurance Formula to enhance overall support and recovery.*
Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | No 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.
A Proven, Researched-Backed Hernia Formula
Studies published in journals such as the Bioresource Technology have highlighted the adsorption behavior properties of Tangerine Seed (Ju He), showing tangerine seed activated carbon (TSAC), obtained from (tangerine seed) can remove carbamate pesticides (CMs), showing its effects can alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and abdominal distension. Similarly, research in Iran J Basic Med Sci has demonstrated that Hawthorn Fruit (Shan Zha) has a vast array of effects on factors contributing to the formation of metabolic syndrome. It can be beneficial in diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis, making it particularly beneficial for those suffering from hernia-related symptoms.
This proven experienced formula shown to:
- Increases Liver Qi to prevent sagging of the organs.*
- Stops pain.*
- Softens mucus accumulations.*
*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.
For adults, as a dietary supplement, take 5 - 10 pills once or twice daily if needed. If taking other medication or supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Different individuals may experience different symptoms, including:
- Hernia, a lump or bulge in the inner groin, bowel obstruction
- One or both testicles are swollen with air or are hard as a stone
- Feeling pressure in the area of the groin, dull pain when standing up
- Umbilical pain, intestinal obstruction
- Fatigue, nausea, or vomiting
DO NOT drink cold or iced beverages. It is best to avoid eating uncooked and cold foods like salad, sushi, smoothies, and ice cream; greasy or deep fried foods like chips, fries, and cheese; and pungent or heavily seasoned foods like kimchi, curries, and barbeque. No shrimp and shellfish. Avoid chocolate. No smoking, alcohol, and coffee.
Wear clothing that covers the chest to protect the lungs. Wear long sleeves and long pants to cover the skin and protect the pores. Stay away from drafts and cold. Be in bed by 10:30 and sleep from 11 pm to 7 am.
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Serving Size 10 pills Serving Per Container 30 Amount Per Serving 3000mg |
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Herbal Blend: Tangerine Seed Peach Seed Hawthorn Fruit Bupleurum Medicated Leaven Fresh Rehmannia Licorice Root |
| Other ingredients: Pure honey to aid digestion and absorption |
Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed. If any signs of discomfort or irritation occur, discontinue use and consult your physician.
Please note that a TCM formula is prescribed based on a diagnosed pattern and multiple formulas are usually prescribed to treat the whole person. Please consult a professional TCM practitioner, they will be best able to guide you.
Combining herbal formulas can effectively address multiple health concerns or enhance Hernia related conditions:
- Hernia Due to Middle Qi Depression: Combine Energy 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yin 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yang 1 to 3 pills, Spleen 1 to 3 pills, Arthritis 1 to 3 with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to increase Middle Qi to support abdominal organs from sagging and creating imbalances.
- Hernia Due to Invasion of Cold and Dampness: Combine Arthritis 5 to 10 pills, Spleen 1 to 3 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to dispel cold and dampness and support the body's defensive Qi.
- Hernia Due to Stagnation of Liver Qi: Take Hernia 5 - 10 pills once or twice daily if needed.
- Hernia Due to Kidney Meridian: Combine Kidney Yin 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yang 5 to 10 pills, Back Pain(K) 3 to 5 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to support and stabilize the body's structure, including the lower back and abdominal area.
- Hernia Due to Spleen Meridian: Combine Spleen 5 to 10 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to provide support to the muscles, connective tissues, and organs, particularly in the abdominal area.
Learn more about Herbal Formula Combinations
Why Are Silkie Formulas Superior to Other Herbal Remedies?
Silkie Pills are not your average herbal supplements. Every step in our process is rooted in quality, tradition, and uncompromising integrity - from raw materials to the final product. Here's what sets us apart:
-
100% Made in the USA
Every part of our production - from sourcing to manufacturing and testing - is done in the United States under strict quality control. This ensures consistency, safety, and compliance with the highest manufacturing standards. -
We Don’t Use Capsules or Tablets - for Good Reason
Unlike most modern supplements, we do not use capsules (whether gelatin or plant-based) or compressed tablets. Capsules and tablets often contain synthetic fillers, binders, lubricants, and flow agents that may interfere with digestion, slow down absorption, or irritate the gut. Even plant-based capsules - often marketed as "natural" - are typically made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), a chemically processed wood pulp derivative. To form that capsule shell, the material must be chemically altered, heated, and molded, often with the help of plasticizers or solvents to create a uniform, shelf-stable capsule shape. These are not whole food substances, and they do not contribute to your health. Tablets, in particular, are produced using high pressure and heat, which can degrade delicate herbal compounds. The body must work to break down these materials before it can even access the herbs. -
Pure Honey as a Binding Agent
We don’t use synthetic binders or fillers. Instead, we use pure honey tailored to each specific formula. This isn’t just a natural binding agent - it’s also a preservative and digestive aid. Different types of honey are chosen intentionally for their energetic properties to balance the herbal ingredients. This helps support better absorption and harmonizes the entire formula with traditional medicinal theory. -
Authentic Medicinal-Grade Herbs Only
We use the highest grade of herbs - authentic medicinal materials (道地藥材 / Dào Dì Yào Cái). These are not commodity herbs; they are grown in their native regions and in the correct terroir (climate, soil, altitude), often harvested by hand at peak potency, and processed according to time-honored TCM methods.
These traditional processing techniques - known as Pao Zhi (炮製) - are essential for transforming raw herbs into effective, safe, and targeted medicine. Depending on the herb’s role and function, this may include:
Roasting (炒) – to moderate harsh properties or enhance warming effects
Steaming (蒸) – to enrich yin or reduce toxicity
Dry-frying with honey (蜜炙) – to tonify and harmonize with the lung and spleen
Frying with wine (酒炙) – to invigorate blood and improve circulation
Calcining (煅) – especially for minerals and shells, making them easier to digest
Fermenting (發酵) – to transform substances and enhance digestive impact
Aging or curing (陳放) – to mellow overly strong herbs and refine their effect
These methods are not optional - they’re integral to how the herb works in the body. They take more time, labor, and expertise, but result in herbs that are far more potent, targeted, and energetically aligned than mass-market herbs grown for bulk supply and sold raw. This level of authenticity is rare - and significantly more expensive - than standard commercial herbs. -
TCM Formulas Are Carefully Studied - Not Random Herbs Thrown Together
Each Silkie formula is based on classical Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. Formulas in TCM are not random combinations of herbs; they are the result of centuries of clinical observation, pattern differentiation, and energetic understanding. Each herb has a defined role - whether it's the chief, deputy, assistant, or envoy - and is selected to support a specific therapeutic direction. We follow this structured approach to ensure synergy, safety, and efficacy. You’re not getting a mix of trendy ingredients. -
Rigorous Testing from Raw to Finished Product
Every single batch undergoes comprehensive testing at every stage - from single raw herb verification, to grinding mixed quality, to the final pill. This includes identity, potency, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants. -
Traditional Wisdom, Modern Integrity
Our formulas are built on five generations of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal wisdom, passed down through experience, apprenticeship, and clinical practice. We respect classical combinations and energetics - not just in theory, but in lived knowledge refined over time. This depth of understanding ensures every formula is rooted in true medicinal purpose, not market trends. Yet we bring this ancient knowledge into the modern era by applying clean, transparent practices and third-party verification - ensuring the medicine of the past meets the expectations of today. -
Handcrafted Attention to Detail
Unlike mass-market pills, each Silkie formula is crafted with thoughtful attention to how ingredients interact. The honey not only binds - it warms the formula, supports the spleen and digestion, and ensures smooth assimilation of herbs. This careful crafting process takes more time, effort, and skill than typical supplement manufacturing.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tangerine seed
Tangerine Seed (Ju He) is commonly used in TCM to regulate Qi (vital energy) and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and abdominal distension, and is clinically used for hernia pain, testicular swelling, pain, and mastitis. It can stimulate gastrointestinal motility, thereby enhancing digestive function.
Peach seed
Peach Seed (Tao Ren) is known for its blood-moving properties and is often used to invigorate blood circulation, disperse blood stasis, and alleviate menstrual irregularities or abdominal pain caused by blood stagnation.
Hawthorn fruit
Hawthorn Fruit (Shan Zha) is traditionally used to aid digestion, regulate Qi, and disperse food stagnation in the stomach and intestines. It may also help reduce cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.
Medicated leaven
Medicated Leaven (Shen Qu) is used in TCM to strengthen the spleen, promote digestion, and resolve food stagnation. It contains enzymes that help break down food and improve nutrient absorption.
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 3000 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
Here's my story.
If you feel skeptical or unsure of Chinese herbal remedies, I could hardly blame you. I wasn't a believer either until my daughter grew very sick and my father (the 4th generation herbalist) helped her get better with herbs.
I was born into a family of herbalists. My father, my grandfather, my great-grandfather, great-great grandfather were all herbalists. I represent the 5th generation in this long lineage dating back to Imperial China.
When I was three or four years old, I started to learn herbal songs and how to identify herbs. As I got older, I was taught how to process the herbs while working in my dad’s clinic in Vietnam. After we immigrated to the United States, my dad asked me if I wanted to pursue a career in TCM as an herbalist or acupuncturist. I said, “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 10 days old, I had to take her to the ER for IV injections into her little hand because she couldn’t keep milk down. Besides vomiting, she also was having diarrhea. Catherine was losing nutrition from both ends, so her tiny body was shrinking. At that time my dad warned me, “She needs to be treated with herbal medicine, otherwise she will have seizures later on.” I didn’t fully understand what my dad was talking about, so I ignored him.
My daughter got so ill that she could only take half an ounce of milk per hour. Before feeding her, I would use a syringe and shoot Zantac into her mouth to lessen the vomiting. As time passed, she needed milk more often, and consequently more Zantac. By the time Catherine was 8 months old, she needed to be fed and medicated 11 times a day.
I could hardly sleep, eat, shower or rest. Even at night, I had to drape my daughter over my shoulder for her to sleep. If I put Catherine down, she would vomit. I barely had time to squeeze in a 5-minute shower once or twice a week for myself. I was exhausted, but what could I do? I had to care for my daughter and do my best to survive each day with the hope that she would get better or at the very least her condition would not worsen.
Catherine had to wear a turtleneck with two sweaters along with a baby cap and scarf to be outside during the heat of summer, even when temperatures were 100 plus degrees. If I didn’t cover her up, she would have a runny nose, cough, and non stop vomiting. How will she be able to go to school or anywhere with air conditioning?
One day we went to a Vietnamese pho restaurant. After I set Catherine down into the high-chair, I turned around and adjusted my chair. Then I heard a woman’s shout, “Look at her!” I looked in the direction she pointed. It was Catherine…her eyes rolled up and her entire body stiff and shaking with fluid coming out of her mouth. Someone said, “Squeeze some lemon into her mouth.” I did it without hesitating and Catherine’s body relaxed.
We rushed her to the ER. For 3 days she was in the NICU where they monitored her brain. The doctors told me I was lucky because my daughter’s seizure didn’t last for more than 3 minutes which would have damaged her brain. After that I always carried a piece of lemon because I had no idea when my baby girl might have another seizure.
The seizures started to come weekly, so the doctor prescribed anti-seizure medication. Catherine wasn’t even 1 year of age, and already she was taking Zantac 11 times plus anti-seizure medicine 3 times a day. It was nearly impossible to administer the anti-seizure medicine because whenever I took out the syringe, she would cry and start vomiting.
I took Catherine to see a specialist at CHOC. I asked, “Doctor, have you ever seen any infant with this condition get well?” The doctor replied, “It depends. Some will grow out of it, but some don’t. If they don’t, then they will have to take medication for the rest of their life.”
“What do you mean by grow out of it?” The doctor explained that Catherine might get better by herself as she got older.
My mind was racing. “All this time the prescribed medication has not been treating her stomach?” The doctor said, “No, it only helps to guide the food down, so she won’t vomit it back up. That’s why you have to give it to her before the feeding.”
“Well, what if she doesn’t grow out of it?” In that case, Catherine will be dependent upon medication for the rest of her life. The doctor further informed me that she too was born with gastro reflux and is still taking medicine for the condition.
Her statement was like lightning in my brain. If the doctor can’t even treat herself for gastro reflux, how can she help my daughter? Seeing the futility of my path, I turned to my dad for help.
My dad advised me to stop all western drugs and to give her an herbal prescription 3 times a day. Administering medicine 3 times instead of 14 times a day to Catherine was a godsend to me. Even though it sounded too good to be true, I figured that I could still give Zantac to Catherine if she didn’t get better or continued to vomit.
After one month of herbs 3 times a day, Catherine vomited less and less. To test Catherine, I let her cry to see if she would vomit. She didn’t, so I knew she was getting better. After another month of herbal medicine, Catherine was able to wear less clothing without getting a runny nose, coughing, or vomiting. After 3 months of herbal formulas, she stopped having episodes of gastro reflux and seizure. Catherine will enjoy a normal, healthy life.
Because of Catherine’s dramatic recovery, I was sold on Chinese medicine and asked my dad to treat me. I fainted very easily, especially during the winter. After a few months of herbal formulas, I have never fainted again.
I started to have time to think and tried to understand why a piece of lemon helps to relax the muscles and stop a seizure. Lemon is a common citrus, yet it has magical powers that we don’t understand and underestimate. I wanted to learn more and find answers, so I decided to go to China which has a long history of herbal medicine. I went to TCM schools in China and Hong Kong and worked in the TCM hospitals to learn from the best herbal doctors in the world.
When I was there, I knew one day I would want to become an herbalist, but how can I get a steady supply of high-quality herbs. My dad and I backpacked across China and visited many farmlands. We interviewed farmers to grow herbs for us. Our products are used with the highest quality herbs that have been harvested at the height of their potency. They are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre- or post-season.
After I came back to the United State, I worked with my dad and learned from his experiences and studied the formulas that our ancestors passed down. What I have been through helped me to understand the importance of health. Without health, don’t even talk about career, beauty, education, freedom, etc. I now have worked with many families who have suffered as I have. Their endearing appreciation drives me to work harder.
Our namesake "Silkie" is a Chinese breed of chicken that is well known for its calm and friendly temperament. They are gentle and caring and make wonderful mothers. A Silkie loves nothing more than brooding a cluster of eggs, whether they are hers or not, even if they are "duck eggs". We share the same outlook and care for our clients the same way we care for our own family.
Let's delve deeper into the analogy of a river current to explain the three essential types of Qi in TCM
In Meridians, the pathways or channels through which the vital energy, known as Qi (pronounced "Chee"), flows throughout the body. There are three essential types of Qi, "Yuan Qi" (Original Qi), “Middle Qi” (Zhong Qi), and "Zong Qi" (Gathering Qi).
Original Qi "Yuan Qi" (元氣) is considered to be inherent in all living beings and is distributed throughout the entire body, nourishing and sustaining life.
Original Qi (Yuan Qi): In the analogy of a river, Original Qi can be likened to the pure water that originates from the river's source. It represents the fundamental energy that we inherit from our parents at birth, constituting our genetic inheritance and overall vitality. Original Qi is considered the primal energy that sustains life and provides the foundation for all other forms of Qi in the body. Just as the purity and quality of water at the source influence the entire river's ecosystem, the strength and integrity of Original Qi play a crucial role in determining our overall health and well-being.
Middle Qi "Zhong Qi" (中氣) primarily resides in the center of the body, governing the functions of the digestive organs, especially the stomach and spleen.
Middle Qi (Zhong Qi): Middle Qi corresponds to the dynamic flow of water within the river, representing the current that carries water downstream. Similarly, Middle Qi encompasses the functional energy that circulates throughout the body, facilitating vital processes such as digestion, metabolism, and circulation. Like the river current, Middle Qi ensures the smooth and efficient distribution of nutrients, oxygen, and vital substances to all tissues and organs, nourishing and revitalizing the body's systems. It regulates the balance between Yin and Yang energies, maintaining harmony and equilibrium within the body.
Gathering Qi "Zong Qi" (宗氣) circulates throughout the body via the meridian system, reaching all organs and tissues to support their functions and maintain overall vitality.
Gathering Qi (Zong Qi): Drawing from our river analogy, Gathering Qi can be likened to the reservoir or pool formed by the river, where water accumulates and is stored. Similarly, Gathering Qi represents the accumulated energy reserves within the body, derived from the efficient utilization of Original Qi and Middle Qi. This reservoir of vitality serves as a backup source of energy, providing a surplus of Qi to support the body's functions during times of increased demand or stress. Just as a reservoir ensures a steady water supply during dry spells or droughts, Gathering Qi enhances the body's resilience and adaptive capacity, promoting overall health and vitality.
By understanding the flow of Qi in the body through the analogy of a river current, we gain insight into the dynamic interplay between Original Qi as the source of energy, Middle Qi as the functional flow of energy, and Gathering Qi as the reservoir of accumulated vitality. This holistic perspective underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced flow of Qi to support optimal health and well-being in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Introducing the Highest Quality Herbs Inside Hernia Formula
In TCM, Tangerine Seed (Ju Zi)
Nature and Flavor: Ju Zi is classified as bitter and slightly warm in taste and nature. Its bitter flavor helps to regulate Qi and promote digestion, while its warmth helps to alleviate symptoms of cold and stagnation.
Meridian Affinity: This herb primarily targets the Spleen and Stomach meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Regulating Qi: Ju Zi is prized for its ability to regulate Qi, particularly in the digestive system, making it beneficial for conditions such as indigestion, bloating, and abdominal distension.
- Promoting Digestion: It has a special affinity for promoting digestion and alleviating symptoms of poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
- Alleviating Abdominal Discomfort: Ju Zi also helps to alleviate symptoms of abdominal discomfort, including pain, cramping, and fullness, particularly when caused by Qi stagnation or food stagnation.
Common Applications:
- Indigestion: Ju Zi is frequently used to promote digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating, belching, and acid reflux.
- Poor appetite: Its ability to regulate Qi and promote digestion makes it useful for stimulating appetite and improving food intake in individuals with poor appetite.
- Abdominal discomfort: Ju Zi's bitter and warming properties help to alleviate symptoms of abdominal discomfort, including pain, cramping, and fullness, particularly in cases of Qi stagnation or food stagnation.
Preparation and Dosage: Ju Zi can be prepared as a decoction, tea infusion, or powdered form. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Peach Seed (Tao Ren)
Nature and Flavor: Tao Ren is classified as bitter and slightly sweet in taste and neutral in nature. Its bitter flavor helps to clear heat and reduce inflammation, while its sweet taste nourishes and harmonizes the blood.
Meridian Affinity: This herb primarily targets the Liver, Heart, and Large Intestine meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Invigorating Blood Circulation: Tao Ren is prized for its ability to invigorate blood circulation and break up blood stasis. It helps alleviate symptoms associated with blood stagnation such as pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Moistening the Intestines: It has a lubricating effect on the intestines and helps to promote bowel movements. This makes it beneficial for addressing symptoms of constipation caused by dryness or blood stasis.
- Nourishing the Blood: Tao Ren nourishes the blood and helps replenish blood deficiencies, making it beneficial for symptoms such as pale complexion, dizziness, and irregular menstruation.
Common Applications:
- Blood stasis: Tao Ren is frequently included in formulas aimed at invigorating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis, particularly in cases of traumatic injuries, bruises, and menstrual disorders.
- Constipation: Its lubricating properties make it beneficial for promoting bowel movements and alleviating symptoms of constipation caused by dryness or blood stasis.
- Menstrual disorders: Tao Ren is used to regulate menstruation and alleviate symptoms such as menstrual pain, irregular periods, and amenorrhea.
Preparation and Dosage: Tao Ren can be prepared in various forms, including decoctions, powders, pills, and extracts(not recommended.) The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Hawthorn Fruit (Shan Zha)
Nature and Flavor: Shan Zha is classified as sour, sweet, and slightly warm in taste and nature. Its sour and sweet flavors help to regulate Qi and promote digestion, while its warmth helps to alleviate symptoms of cold and stagnation.
Meridian Affinity: This herb primarily targets the Spleen, Stomach, and Liver meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Promoting Digestion: Shan Zha is prized for its ability to promote digestion and alleviate symptoms of food stagnation, making it beneficial for conditions such as indigestion, bloating, and abdominal distension.
- Improving Blood Circulation: It has a special affinity for improving blood circulation and relieving blood stasis, making it useful for conditions such as angina, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
- Reducing Food Accumulation: Shan Zha also helps to reduce food accumulation and dissolve accumulations in the digestive system, preventing the formation of food stagnation and digestive disorders.
Common Applications:
- Indigestion: Shan Zha is frequently used to promote digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating, belching, and acid reflux.
- Cardiovascular health: Its ability to improve blood circulation and relieve blood stasis makes it beneficial for supporting cardiovascular health and preventing heart-related disorders.
- High cholesterol: Shan Zha's ability to reduce lipid levels and prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood vessels makes it useful for lowering high cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Preparation and Dosage: Shan Zha can be prepared as a decoction, tea infusion, or powdered form. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Bupleurum, Thorowax (Chai Hu)
Nature and Flavor: Chai Hu is classified as bitter and acrid in taste and slightly cold in nature. Its bitter and acrid flavors help to soothe the Liver and resolve stagnation, while its cooling nature helps to alleviate symptoms of heat.
Meridian Affinity: This herb primarily targets the Liver and Gallbladder meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Harmonizing the Shao Yang: Chai Hu is prized for its ability to harmonize the Shao Yang, an intermediate area between the exterior and interior of the body, making it beneficial for conditions such as alternating chills and fever, bitter taste in the mouth, and irritability.
- Soothing the Liver: It has a special affinity for soothing the Liver and relieving Liver Qi stagnation, helping to alleviate symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and menstrual irregularities.
- Resolving Stagnation: Chai Hu also helps to resolve stagnation and promote the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body, making it beneficial for conditions such as chest and rib-side pain, bloating, and emotional disturbances.
Common Applications:
- Shao Yang syndrome: Chai Hu is frequently used to treat conditions associated with the Shao Yang, such as alternating chills and fever, bitter taste in the mouth, and nausea.
- Liver Qi stagnation: Its ability to soothe the Liver and resolve stagnation makes it beneficial for treating symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and menstrual irregularities.
- Chest and rib-side pain: Chai Hu's ability to promote the smooth flow of Qi makes it useful for relieving chest and rib-side pain associated with Liver Qi stagnation.
Preparation and Dosage: Chai Hu can be prepared in various forms, including decoctions, teas, tinctures, and extracts. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Medicated Leaven (Shen Qu)
Nature and Flavor: Shen Qu is classified as sweet and warm in taste and nature. Its sweet flavor helps to tonify the Spleen and promote digestion, while its warmth helps to alleviate symptoms of cold and stagnation in the digestive system.
Meridian Affinity: This substance primarily targets the Spleen and Stomach meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Promoting Digestion: Shen Qu is prized for its ability to promote digestion and alleviate symptoms of poor appetite, bloating, and abdominal distension, particularly in cases of Spleen deficiency.
- Resolving Food Stagnation: It has a special affinity for resolving food stagnation and alleviating symptoms such as indigestion, belching, and acid reflux caused by the accumulation of undigested food in the stomach and intestines.
- Tonifying the Spleen: Shen Qu also helps to tonify the Spleen and improve its function in transforming and transporting food, enhancing nutrient absorption and energy production in the body.
Common Applications:
- Indigestion: Shen Qu is frequently used to promote digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating, belching, and acid reflux, particularly in cases of Spleen deficiency.
- Food stagnation: Its ability to resolve food stagnation makes it beneficial for alleviating symptoms such as fullness, discomfort, and poor appetite caused by the accumulation of undigested food in the digestive tract.
- Weak digestion: Shen Qu's tonifying properties make it useful for strengthening the Spleen and improving digestive function in cases of weak digestion, poor appetite, and fatigue.
Preparation and Dosage: Shen Qu is commonly available in the form of granules, pills, or capsules. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to follow the instructions provided by a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare professional.
In TCM, Fresh Rehmannia (Sheng Di Huang)
Nature and Flavor: Sheng Di Huang is classified as a yin-tonifying herb with a cooling nature. Its taste is described as bitter and sweet.
Meridian Affinity: It primarily affects the Heart, Liver, and Kidney meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Nourishing Yin and Fluids: Fresh Rehmannia Root is renowned for its ability to nourish Yin, particularly the Kidney and Liver Yin. It replenishes bodily fluids, alleviates dryness, and restores moisture in cases of Yin deficiency.
- Clearing Heat and Cooling Blood: This herb possesses remarkable heat-clearing properties, making it invaluable in addressing conditions characterized by heat and toxicity. It helps cool the blood, reducing symptoms such as fever, irritability, and bleeding disorders.
- Nourishing Blood: Sheng Di Huang also has blood-tonifying effects, enhancing blood circulation, and addressing symptoms associated with blood deficiency, such as pale complexion, dizziness, and palpitations.
Common Applications:
- Yin deficiency with heat signs: Sheng Di Huang is often used to treat conditions like night sweats, hot flashes, and irritability.
- Bleeding disorders: Its cooling properties make it effective in managing various bleeding disorders, including nosebleeds and bloody urine.
- Nourishing Yin and Blood: It's frequently included in formulas to nourish Yin and blood, promoting overall vitality and wellness.
Preparation and Dosage: Sheng Di Huang can be used in various forms, including decoctions, powders, pills, and extracts(not recommended.) Dosage may vary depending on the specific condition and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Licorice Root (Gan Cao)
Nature and Flavor: Gan Cao is classified as sweet in taste and neutral in nature. Its sweet flavor harmonizes the actions of other herbs in a formula and helps to moderate their harshness or bitterness.
Meridian Affinity: This herb primarily targets the Spleen, Stomach, Heart, and Lung meridians.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Harmonizing the Middle Jiao: Gan Cao is prized for its ability to tonify the Spleen and Stomach, harmonize the middle jiao (digestive system), and promote healthy digestion. It helps alleviate symptoms of poor appetite, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Moistening the Lungs and Stopping Cough: It has moistening properties that help to nourish Lung Yin and alleviate dryness-related symptoms such as dry cough, sore throat, and hoarseness.
- Clearing Heat and Toxins: Gan Cao has mild heat-clearing and detoxifying properties, making it beneficial for addressing symptoms of heat-related conditions such as sore throat, mouth ulcers, and skin eruptions.
Common Applications:
- Digestive disorders: Gan Cao is frequently included in formulas aimed at tonifying the Spleen and Stomach, promoting healthy digestion, and alleviating symptoms of poor appetite, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Respiratory conditions: Its moistening properties make it beneficial for addressing symptoms of dry cough, sore throat, and hoarseness, particularly in cases of Lung Yin deficiency.
- Heat-related conditions: Gan Cao's heat-clearing and detoxifying properties make it useful for addressing symptoms of sore throat, mouth ulcers, and skin eruptions associated with heat and toxins.
Preparation and Dosage: Gan Cao can be prepared in various forms, including decoctions, powders, pills, and extracts(not recommended.) The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the formulation used. It's essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
In TCM, Pure Honey
Nature and Flavor: Pure honey is classified as sweet in taste and neutral in nature. Its sweet flavor makes it appealing for culinary use, while its neutral nature makes it suitable for a wide range of constitutions.
Meridian Affinity: Honey has a harmonizing effect on all meridians, making it a versatile substance that can be used to support overall health and balance in the body.
Therapeutic Functions:
- Moistening and Nourishing: Honey is renowned for its ability to moisten and nourish the body, particularly the lungs and stomach. It helps alleviate dryness and promotes the production of bodily fluids, making it beneficial for conditions such as dry cough, dry throat, and constipation.
- Tonifying the Spleen and Stomach: It has a tonifying effect on the Spleen and Stomach organs, helping to strengthen digestion and improve appetite. This makes honey useful for addressing symptoms of poor digestion, such as bloating, indigestion, and fatigue.
- Soothing and Calming: Honey has a soothing and calming effect on the body and mind, making it beneficial for promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety. It can also help improve sleep quality and promote overall well-being.
- Promotes Wound Healing and Acts as Preservative: Accelerates wound healing, prevents infection, and serves as a natural preservative with antibacterial properties.
Common Applications:
- Respiratory conditions: Honey is often used to soothe and alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as coughs, sore throats, and congestion. It can be taken alone or combined with other herbs to enhance its therapeutic effects.
- Digestive disorders: Its tonifying properties make honey beneficial for improving digestion and alleviating symptoms of poor appetite, indigestion, and bloating.
- General health and wellness: Honey is commonly used as a natural sweetener and food supplement to support overall health and vitality.
Preparation and Dosage: Pure honey can be consumed on its own or added to herbal teas, decoctions, or other medicinal preparations. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual's constitution. It's essential to use high-quality, unpasteurized honey to ensure maximum therapeutic benefits.
Combining Herbal Formulas Togethers
Combining herbal formulas can effectively address multiple health concerns or enhance overall well-being.
- Consider Patterns: Identify underlying imbalances or health concerns before combining formulas to ensure compatibility.
- Address Multiple Symptoms: Choose formulas targeting different health aspects to address multiple symptoms simultaneously.
- Timing Matters: Consider organ functions according to the Silkie 24 Hour Wellness Wheel. For instance, take Liver and Gallbladder formulas post-dinner or around 7 pm, while Lung and Large Intestinal formulas are best taken upon waking or at 7 am.
- Synergistic Actions: Look for herbs with complementary actions to enhance overall effectiveness, such as pairing anti-inflammatory with immune-boosting herbs.
- Ensure Compatibility: Check compatibility and safety of combined herbs, avoiding conflicting actions or interactions. Consult trusted herbalists for guidance.
- Customize Dosages: Adjust individual herb dosages based on personal needs and tolerance levels for optimal therapeutic effects.
- Monitor Effects: Pay attention to body responses and modify combinations as needed. Seek guidance from trusted herbalists for personalized consultation.
Herbal Formula Combinations for Hernia Related Conditions
- Chinese Herbs for Hernia Due to Middle Qi Depression: Combine Energy 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yin 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yang 1 to 3 pills, Spleen 1 to 3 pills, Arthritis 1 to 3 with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to increase Middle Qi to support abdominal organs from sagging and creating imbalances.
- Chinese Herbs for Hernia Due to Invasion of Cold and Dampness: Combine Arthritis 5 to 10 pills, Spleen 1 to 3 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to dispel cold and dampness and support the body's defensive Qi.
- Chinese Herbs for Hernia Due to Stagnation of Liver Qi: Take Hernia 5 - 10 pills once or twice daily if needed.
- Chinese Herbs for Hernia Due to Kidney Meridian: Combine Kidney Yin 1 to 3 pills, Kidney Yang 5 to 10 pills, Back Pain(K) 3 to 5 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to support and stabilize to the body's structure, including the lower back and abdominal area.
- Chinese Herbs for Hernia Due to Spleen Meridian: Combine Spleen 5 to 10 pills with Hernia 1 to 3 pills to provide support to the muscles, connective tissues, and organs, particularly in the abdominal area.
