What Is Asthma (H) Formula?
Asthma (H) Formula is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed to support healthy Lung function, comfortable breathing, normal mucus balance, and the smooth descending movement of Lung Qi for individuals whose TCM pattern includes asthma with Heat signs, wheezing, cough, chest tightness, thick phlegm, and respiratory discomfort.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), asthma with Heat signs is commonly associated with Lung Heat, Phlegm-Heat, and obstructed or rebellious Lung Qi. When Heat and Phlegm interfere with the Lung’s dispersing and descending functions, wheezing, cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath, throat irritation, thick yellow mucus, thirst, or restlessness may occur.
Asthma (H) Formula is traditionally used to clear Lung Heat, transform Phlegm, support the normal descending movement of Lung Qi, and maintain respiratory comfort. It is commonly chosen for heat-type asthma patterns involving wheezing, persistent cough, chest congestion, thick or difficult-to-clear mucus, and breathing discomfort accompanied by Heat signs.*
Common Signs of Asthma With Heat in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Persistent cough or respiratory irritation
- Chest tightness or congestion
- Shortness of breath or uncomfortable breathing
- Thick, yellow, or sticky phlegm
- Difficulty clearing mucus
- Throat irritation or dryness
- Sensations of Heat in the chest or body
- Thirst, restlessness, or irritability
- Respiratory discomfort that worsens with Heat
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Asthma (H) Formula?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Formulated for Lung Heat and Phlegm-Heat patterns
- Supports healthy Lung function and comfortable breathing
- Supports normal mucus balance and respiratory comfort
- Promotes the normal descending movement of Lung Qi
- Made with carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Traditional honey-bound pills without artificial fillers
Suggested Combinations for Respiratory Support
Asthma (H) Formula may be paired with other Silkie Herbs formulas according to the individual’s constitution and TCM pattern.
Asthma (H) Formula + Spleen Support
Consider Spleen Support when respiratory concerns occur with weak digestion, bloating, loose stools, fatigue, Dampness, or excessive mucus. Supporting Spleen Qi helps maintain healthy digestion, fluid metabolism, and Phlegm transformation.*
Asthma (H) Formula + Kidney Support Yin
Consider Kidney Support Yin when respiratory concerns occur with dry throat, night sweating, internal Heat, dryness, lower back weakness, or long-term depletion. In TCM, the Kidney helps grasp and anchor Lung Qi.*
Asthma (H) Formula + Allergy Relief
Consider Allergy Relief when respiratory sensitivity occurs with sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, sinus discomfort, nasal congestion, seasonal allergies, or excessive mucus.*
Asthma (H) Formula + Immune Booster
Consider Immune Booster when respiratory concerns occur with weak defensive Qi, low energy, weather sensitivity, frequent seasonal challenges, or a tendency to feel run down.*
These formulas may be combined according to the individual’s TCM pattern to support the Lung, Spleen, Kidney, defensive Qi, healthy breathing, and seasonal respiratory wellness.*
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 Asthma (H) Formula
Supports Healthy Lung Function and Respiratory Wellness*
Asthma (H) Formula is traditionally used to support healthy Lung function, comfortable breathing, and overall respiratory wellness according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is formulated for TCM patterns involving asthma with Heat signs, wheezing, cough, chest tightness, thick phlegm, and respiratory discomfort.
Supports Comfortable Breathing and Healthy Airway Function*
Healthy breathing depends on the smooth circulation of Lung Qi and normal respiratory function. This formula supports comfortable breathing and healthy airway function when Heat, Phlegm, and obstructed Lung Qi are part of the individual’s traditional pattern.
Supports the Normal Descending Movement of Lung Qi*
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Lung naturally disperses and descends Qi. When Lung Qi becomes obstructed or rises upward, the pattern may include wheezing, cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and uncomfortable breathing. This formula traditionally supports the normal downward movement and circulation of Lung Qi.
Traditionally Used to Clear Lung Heat*
Lung Heat patterns may be associated with cough, wheezing, throat irritation, thirst, chest discomfort, thick yellow mucus, restlessness, and sensations of Heat in the chest or body. This formula contains herbs traditionally used to clear Lung Heat and restore internal balance.
Supports Phlegm Transformation and Healthy Mucus Balance*
Heat, Dampness, and weakened fluid metabolism may contribute to thick, sticky, or difficult-to-clear phlegm. This formula traditionally supports healthy Phlegm transformation, normal mucus balance, and comfortable respiratory function.
Nourishes Lung Yin and Supports Throat Moisture*
Heat and long-standing respiratory imbalance may consume Lung fluids and contribute to throat dryness, irritation, dry cough, thirst, or sticky mucus. Ophiopogon Tuber is traditionally used to nourish Lung Yin, generate fluids, and support throat and respiratory comfort.
Supports Spleen Function and Healthy Fluid Metabolism*
In TCM, the Spleen helps transform and transport fluids. When Spleen function becomes weak, Dampness and Phlegm may accumulate and affect the Lung. Tangerine Peel and Poria traditionally support healthy digestion, Qi movement, fluid metabolism, and the transformation of Dampness and Phlegm.
Supports Respiratory Comfort During Seasonal Changes and Activity*
Heat, weather changes, allergens, environmental exposure, and physical activity may challenge individuals with sensitive respiratory patterns. This formula supports healthy Lung function, respiratory comfort, and normal breathing during seasonal changes and everyday activity.
Promotes Long-Term Lung Balance and Overall Vitality*
Traditional Chinese Medicine views healthy breathing as closely connected to balanced Lung Qi, appropriate fluid metabolism, healthy Spleen function, and sufficient Lung Yin. Consistent support for these systems may help maintain respiratory balance, energy, resilience, and overall vitality.
Individual experiences may vary according to constitution, the underlying TCM pattern, environmental exposure, diet, digestion, and consistency of use.
*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 Asthma (H) Formula
This formula is most appropriate for Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns associated with Lung Heat, Phlegm-Heat, obstructed or rebellious Lung Qi, thick mucus, and dryness affecting the respiratory system. Different individuals may experience different signs, such as:
Wheezing or Noisy Breathing
Recurring wheezing, whistling, or noisy breathing may occur when Heat and Phlegm obstruct the Lung and prevent Lung Qi from descending normally. Breathing may feel tight, restricted, or uncomfortable, particularly during seasonal changes or environmental exposure.
Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Taking a Full Breath
Some individuals experience shortness of breath, frequent breathing, or difficulty taking a comfortable full breath. These signs may become more noticeable during movement, exercise, climbing stairs, talking, or other physical activity.
Chest Tightness, Fullness, or Congestion
A sensation of tightness, pressure, fullness, heaviness, or congestion across the chest may accompany Lung Heat and Phlegm accumulation. Individuals may feel as though the chest cannot expand comfortably or that mucus is obstructing normal respiratory function.
Recurring or Persistent Cough
A recurring cough may occur during the day or night and may become more noticeable with talking, exercise, seasonal changes, environmental irritants, or warm weather. In TCM, coughing may develop when Lung Qi rises upward instead of descending normally.
Cough with Thick, Yellow, or Sticky Phlegm
Lung Heat and Phlegm-Heat patterns are commonly associated with thick, yellow, sticky, or difficult-to-clear mucus. Individuals may experience frequent coughing, throat clearing, chest congestion, or the sensation that phlegm remains in the throat or chest.
Dry, Irritated, or Uncomfortable Throat
Heat and insufficient Lung fluids may contribute to throat dryness, irritation, scratchiness, thirst, or discomfort. These signs may become more noticeable after prolonged coughing or during dry, warm, or polluted environmental conditions.
Sensations of Heat, Thirst, Restlessness, or Irritability
Individuals with a Lung Heat pattern may feel warm in the chest or body, prefer cooler drinks, become thirsty more frequently, or experience restlessness and irritability while respiratory discomfort is present.
Respiratory Sensitivity During Seasonal or Environmental Changes
Wheezing, cough, chest tightness, mucus, or breathing discomfort may become more noticeable during warmer weather, seasonal transitions, poor air quality, exposure to smoke, dust, pollen, fragrances, or other airborne irritants.
Recurring Heat-Type Respiratory Patterns
Some individuals experience repeated episodes of wheezing, cough, chest congestion, thick yellow phlegm, throat irritation, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on identifying and supporting the underlying pattern involving Lung Heat, Phlegm, Lung Qi obstruction, fluid imbalance, or Spleen weakness.
Individuals with complex, chronic, recurring, or long-standing respiratory patterns may benefit from combining Asthma (H) Formula with additional herbal support according to their constitution and individual TCM pattern.
Important Asthma Notice
Asthma (H) Formula is not a replacement for prescribed controller medication, a rescue inhaler, or an established asthma action plan. Do not discontinue or reduce prescribed asthma medication without appropriate professional guidance.
Emergency Notice
Severe difficulty breathing, inability to speak comfortably, bluish lips or face, confusion, unusual drowsiness, fainting, or symptoms that do not improve after using prescribed rescue medication may indicate a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately. This product is not intended for emergency use or as a replacement for immediate medical evaluation and treatment.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Asthma With Heat Signs and Lung Health
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healthy breathing depends on balanced Lung Qi, healthy digestion, appropriate fluid metabolism, and the body’s ability to clear excess Heat and transform Phlegm. Patterns involving Lung Heat, Phlegm-Heat, obstructed Lung Qi, dryness, or weakened Spleen function may be associated with wheezing, cough, chest tightness, thick yellow mucus, throat irritation, and respiratory discomfort.
Daily Habits to Support Lung and Respiratory Health
For best results while using Asthma (H) Formula:
- Eat regular, balanced meals at consistent times each day.
- Choose freshly prepared, easy-to-digest foods that support both Lung and Spleen function.
- Drink adequate water throughout the day, preferably at room temperature rather than iced.
- Practice gentle breathing exercises, Qigong, Tai Chi, yoga, or stretching.
- Stay physically active according to your individual respiratory comfort and fitness level.
- Get adequate sleep and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Manage stress through meditation, relaxation, or calm breathing practices.
- Spend time outdoors when the air quality is favorable.
- Keep the home clean and reduce exposure to dust, mold, smoke, fragrances, and other known respiratory irritants.
- Allow adequate time for rest and recovery during seasonal or environmental changes.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals with Lung Heat, Phlegm-Heat, thick mucus, or recurring respiratory sensitivity may benefit from limiting:
- Smoking, vaping, and tobacco products
- Exposure to secondhand smoke, dust, pollution, and chemical fragrances
- Excess alcohol
- Excess sugar, sweets, and sugary beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, and heavily processed foods
- Excessively spicy, pungent, or heavily seasoned foods
- Excess dairy products if they appear to increase mucus
- Frequent fast food and processed snacks
- Excessively hot, warming, or drying foods
- Large amounts of iced beverages or difficult-to-digest raw foods
- Late-night meals and irregular eating schedules
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Lung and Respiratory Wellness
A balanced diet may include pears, white radish, lotus root, lily bulb, winter melon, water chestnuts, cooked leafy vegetables, lightly prepared vegetables, warm soups, whole grains, lean proteins, and other nourishing foods appropriate for the individual.
From a TCM perspective, pears, lily bulb, and Ophiopogon Tuber are traditionally associated with supporting Lung Yin and healthy fluids, while white radish and Tangerine Peel are traditionally used to support Qi movement, digestion, and healthy Phlegm transformation.
Supporting Healthy Breathing from Within
Traditional Chinese Medicine views the Lung and Spleen as closely connected. The Spleen helps transform food and fluids into Qi, while the Lung distributes Qi and regulates respiration. When digestion and fluid metabolism become weak, Dampness and Phlegm may accumulate and interfere with healthy Lung function.
Consistent nutrition, healthy digestion, proper hydration, quality sleep, regular movement, stress management, and reduced exposure to respiratory irritants can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support comfortable breathing, healthy Lung function, normal mucus balance, and long-term respiratory wellness.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution, digestive tolerance, environmental exposure, and Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Asthma (H) Formula
Asthma (H) Formula contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs traditionally used to clear excess Lung Heat, transform Phlegm, support healthy Lung Qi and fluids, promote comfortable breathing, and maintain overall respiratory wellness.
Scutellaria Root
Traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to clear excess Heat and support healthy Lung function. Scutellaria Root is commonly included in traditional formulas when Heat and Phlegm affect respiratory comfort and helps support the body's natural inflammatory balance.
Mulberry Root Bark
Traditionally used to clear Lung Heat, support the natural downward movement of Lung Qi, and maintain comfortable breathing. Mulberry Root Bark is commonly included in Chinese herbal formulas to support respiratory wellness when Heat, Phlegm, and chest discomfort are present.
Platycodon Root
Traditionally used to support healthy Lung function and the normal movement of Lung Qi. Platycodon Root helps maintain respiratory comfort, healthy breathing, and a clear, comfortable throat while traditionally helping the Lung manage Phlegm.
Tangerine Peel
Traditionally used to regulate Qi, transform Phlegm, and support healthy digestion. Tangerine Peel helps maintain normal mucus and fluid balance while supporting comfortable breathing and healthy respiratory function.
Poria
Traditionally used to support healthy fluid metabolism, digestion, and Spleen function. Poria helps maintain normal moisture balance and complements herbs traditionally used to address excess Dampness and Phlegm while supporting overall digestive and respiratory wellness.
Ophiopogon Root
Traditionally used to nourish Lung Yin, support healthy body fluids, and maintain moisture in the respiratory system. Ophiopogon Root helps balance the formula's Heat-clearing herbs while supporting comfortable breathing, throat comfort, and healthy Lung function.
Pure Honey
Silkie Herbs® formulas are prepared with pure honey as the traditional binding ingredient. Honey holds the powdered herbs together, helps the pills dissolve and break down during digestion, supports the absorption of the herbal ingredients, moderates their taste, harmonizes the formula, and naturally helps preserve freshness.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, honey has an affinity for the Lung, Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine systems. Its gentle and harmonizing nature makes it especially suitable for preparing traditional honey-bound herbal pills.
Unlike compressed tablets and conventional capsules, our honey-bound pills are made without artificial colors, artificial flavors, chemical binders, lubricants, wax, or unnecessary fillers. This traditional preparation method allows Silkie Herbs® to preserve the character of the herbal formula while making it convenient to take.
Together, these herbs have traditionally been used to support healthy Lung function, promote comfortable breathing, clear excess Heat and Phlegm, support respiratory wellness, maintain healthy Qi circulation, and promote long-term Lung health.*
*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: Scutellaria Root Mulberry Root Bark Platycodon Root Tangerine Peel Poria Ophiopogon Root |
| Other ingredients: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Asthma (H) Formula
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. Dosage may be adjusted according to the individual’s condition, constitution, TCM pattern, and response. If taking medications or other supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Healthy breathing and respiratory wellness are influenced by many factors, including air quality, seasonal changes, nutrition, stress management, and overall Lung health. Noticeable improvement may develop gradually over several weeks of consistent use.
For best results, take consistently as directed. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas are often used daily as part of a long-term wellness routine to support healthy respiratory function and Lung wellness.
Research on Herbs in Asthma (H) Formula
Modern research has examined herbs used in Asthma (H) Formula, including Scutellaria Root (Huang Qin), Mulberry Root Bark (Sang Bai Pi), Platycodon Root (Jie Geng), Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Poria (Fu Ling), and Ophiopogon Tuber (Mai Dong).
Research on Scutellaria Root and its naturally occurring flavonoid baicalin has explored antioxidant activity, inflammatory pathways, and potential effects within experimental models involving the lungs and respiratory system. Mulberry Root Bark has also been studied for its phytochemical compounds and biological activity in laboratory and preclinical models involving airway inflammation.
Platycodon Root has a long history of traditional use for supporting the Lung, throat, normal mucus clearance, and respiratory comfort. Modern reviews have examined its triterpenoid saponins and other naturally occurring compounds. Research on Ophiopogon Tuber has explored its traditional uses, phytochemistry, antioxidant activity, and potential role in supporting respiratory tissues and healthy fluid balance.
Tangerine Peel has been studied for its flavonoids, essential oils, antioxidant activity, and traditional role in regulating Qi, supporting digestion, and transforming Phlegm. Poria contains naturally occurring polysaccharides and triterpenes that have been investigated for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, asthma with Heat signs may involve Lung Heat, Phlegm-Heat, dryness, and obstructed or rebellious Lung Qi. These herbs are traditionally combined to clear Lung Heat, transform Phlegm, support healthy fluid metabolism, nourish Lung Yin, promote the normal descending movement of Lung Qi, and maintain comfortable breathing and respiratory wellness.
Research References
The Protective Effects of Baicalin for Respiratory Diseases: An Update and Future Perspectives
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10060540/
Morus alba: A Comprehensive Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10244279/
The Root Barks of Morus alba and Their Flavonoid Constituents in Airway Inflammation Research
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23806866/
Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Product Application of Platycodon grandiflorum
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11283231/
Ophiopogon japonicus: A Phytochemical, Ethnomedicinal and Pharmacological Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26826325/
Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Properties and Pharmacokinetics of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38942157/
Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities of Wolfiporia cocos
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7533546/
The cited research examines individual herbs or their naturally occurring constituents and includes laboratory, preclinical, and review research. It does not establish that Asthma (H) Formula diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents asthma or any other disease.
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 Asthma (H) Formula
Scutellaria Root
Scutellaria Root (Huang Qin) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to clear Heat, particularly Heat affecting the Lung. In TCM, it is commonly included in respiratory formulas for Lung Heat patterns associated with cough, occasional wheezing, chest discomfort, and thick or yellow mucus.
Traditional Herbs in Asthma (H) Formula
Scutellaria Root
Scutellaria Root (Huang Qin) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to clear Heat, particularly Heat affecting the Lung. In TCM, it is commonly included in respiratory formulas for Lung Heat patterns associated with cough, occasional wheezing, chest discomfort, and thick or yellow mucus.
Mulberry Root Bark
Mulberry Root Bark (Sang Bai Pi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to clear Lung Heat and support the descending movement of Lung Qi. In TCM, it is commonly included in respiratory formulas for Heat patterns associated with cough, occasional wheezing, chest fullness, and difficulty with the normal downward movement of Lung Qi.
Platycodon Root
Platycodon Root (Jie Geng) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to support Lung Qi, transform Phlegm, and promote throat and respiratory comfort. In TCM, it is commonly included in respiratory formulas for patterns associated with cough, chest congestion, excess Phlegm, throat discomfort, and difficulty clearing mucus.
Ophiopogon Root
Ophiopogon Root (Mai Dong) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to nourish Lung Yin, generate healthy fluids, and moisten dryness. In TCM, it is commonly included in respiratory formulas for patterns associated with Lung dryness, dry cough, dry throat, thirst, and respiratory discomfort related to insufficient Yin and fluids.
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.