Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine offers a natural, time-tested approach to supporting health, wellness, and balance. At Latitude Acupuncture & Wellness in South Burlington, Vermont, Chinese herbal medicine is personalized to each individual using carefully selected combinations of herbs in forms such as concentrated granules, traditional herbal teas, and liquid tinctures.

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As part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbal formulas are selected based on your unique needs and patterns rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Chinese herbs may be used alongside acupuncture or as part of a personalized wellness plan to support concerns such as digestion, sleep, stress, energy, menstrual and hormonal health, immune function, and overall well-being.

What is Chinese herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is a traditional system of healing that has been practiced for more than 2,000 years. It uses plants, roots, flowers, seeds, bark, and other natural substances in carefully selected combinations to support the body, address patterns of imbalance, and promote overall health and well-being.

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Why should I choose Latitude for my Chinese herbal medicine?

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​Latitude Acupuncture & Wellness founder Lindsay Kintop, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, RN, BSN, is among just 20% of licensed Chinese herbalists in the U.S. who prepare customized herbal formulas in-house. She earned her Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the New England School of Acupuncture in 2010. Her training in East Asian medicine, combined with her nursing background, shapes the evidence-informed approach she brings to Chinese herbal medicine and the creation of customized herbal formulas.

Latitude proudly provides Chinese herbal medicine to patients throughout Chittenden County and the Greater Burlington area, including Burlington, Williston, Shelburne, Winooski, Essex, and surrounding Vermont communities.

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What types of Chinese herbal medicine do you offer?

At Latitude Acupuncture & Wellness, Lindsay creates customized herbal formulas in-house using Chinese herbal granules and tinctures. Each formula is selected based on your individual health concerns, symptoms, and patterns identified through the principles of Chinese medicine.
 

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What are Chinese herbal granules?

Chinese herbal granules are concentrated herbal extracts that dissolve in hot water to create an herbal tea. They offer a convenient way to take a customized combination of herbs without the lengthy preparation traditionally required for raw herbs.

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What is an herbal tincture?

A tincture is a concentrated liquid herbal preparation. Tinctures are convenient and easy to take and allow multiple herbs to be combined into a customized formula based on your individual needs.

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What can Chinese herbal medicine help support?

Chinese herbal medicine may be used to support a wide range of concerns, including digestive health, stress, sleep, hormonal balance, headaches and migraines, pain and inflammation, immune function, and overall wellness. Because formulas are individualized, your treatment is based on your specific symptoms and health goals.

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Are Chinese herbal formulas customized for each patient?

Yes. Lindsay prepares customized herbal formulas in-house rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Your formula is created specifically for you and may be adjusted over time as your symptoms and needs change.
 

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How much do Chinese herbs typically cost?

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The cost of Chinese herbal medicine varies depending on your individual formula, but most patients can expect to spend approximately $20–$30 per week on herbs.

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Do I need to receive acupuncture to use Chinese herbal medicine?

No. Chinese herbal medicine can be used on its own or alongside acupuncture as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting your health and well-being.

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How do I prepare my Chinese herbal granules?

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• Fill a cup with hot water. Use approximately 2–4 ounces of very hot water, heated just as you would for tea. Using less water makes the herbs quicker and easier to drink.
   

• Measure your herbs. Follow the personalized dosage listed on your bottle. Using the spoon provided, add the prescribed amount of granules to the hot water.
   

• Stir and drink. Stir until the granules dissolve, then drink your herbs warm or cold. If you prefer them chilled, you can prepare both daily doses at the same time and refrigerate the second serving until later that day.

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Can I add something to improve the taste?

If needed, you may add a small amount of honey, lemon, or another sweetener. Whenever possible, we recommend trying your formula without added sweeteners first.

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When should I take my herbs?

Follow the directions provided with your individual formula. If you’ve been instructed to take your herbs twice daily, this will typically mean one dose in the morning and another later in the day. If Lindsay has instructed you to take your formula away from meals, aim for approximately 30 minutes before or after eating. If timing your herbs around meals makes it difficult to take them consistently, ask Lindsay about the best approach for your particular formula.

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What happens if I miss a dose?

Simply take your next scheduled dose as directed. Do not double your next dose unless Lindsay has specifically instructed you to do so.

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Can I take Chinese herbs with my medications or supplements?

In many cases, Chinese herbal formulas can be taken alongside prescription medications and supplements. However, it’s important to tell Lindsay about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Lindsay will review them along with your personalized herbal formula and let you know if anything should be taken separately, avoided at the same time, or otherwise adjusted.

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How long will I need to take Chinese herbs?

This varies from person to person. Some formulas may be recommended for a shorter period, while others may be used longer and adjusted over time. Lindsay will make recommendations based on your individual concerns, response to the herbs, and health goals.

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How do I get started with Chinese herbal medicine?

Contact Latitude Acupuncture & Wellness to learn more about Chinese herbal medicine and whether a customized herbal formula may be right for you. Lindsay will discuss your health history, current concerns, medications and supplements, and wellness goals to determine an appropriate approach for your individual needs.

Chinese herbal medicine can be used on its own or alongside acupuncture as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting your health and well-being.

Contact Latitude Acupuncture & Wellness today to learn how Chinese herbal medicine may support your path to better health.