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Chinese herbal medicine is a major aspect of traditional Chinese medicine and is thought to be the most complex herbal system in the world,which focuses on restoring a balance of energy, body, and spirit to maintain health.
The 
belief behind Chinese Herbalism is that good health revolves around the flow of body energy known as Chi.
Another belief is that there are two forces known as Yin and Yang. If the balance of Yin and Yang are disturbed than disharmony will follow, possibly in the form of ill-health.
Herbalists attempt to prevent and treat imbalances, such as those caused by cancer and other diseases, with complex combinations of herbs, minerals, and plant extracts.
The herbalist uses 3 or 4 base herbs which are known to be good for a certain condition, and then adds a further 5 to 9 herbs to meet the specific needs of the individual patient.
They are then brewed to make a tea drink, but some of them do taste disgusting.
Chinese Herbal Medicine is thought to be effective in the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, arthritis,
rheumatism, back pain, asthma, headaches, depression, anxiety,
menstrual problems and aches and pains. 
A Chinese herbalist can make a diagnosis by looking at face, eyes and tongue, and by taking several pulses to test energy levels and detect imbalances.
As it is such a complicated system and herbs are potent medicines, it is advisable to get qualified advice and let a qualified herbalist make up the formulas and Chinese herbs must not be mixed with Western herbs.
More information relating to Chinese Herbal Medicine can be found on the following websites.
Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine - offical register
Internet Health Library - information and advice
Chinese Medicine Sampler - lots of detailed information
Pulse of Oriental Medicine - introduction to chinese medicine and specific herbs
Whole Health.com - what it is and how it works
Herb Research Foundation - science-based info on the health benefits and safety of herbs