Herb safety
Bring us a list of everything you take
This is the most useful thing you can do before a formula. The list helps us check each herb against your medicines and your history.
Bring a list
Prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, teas and creams. A photo of each label works if you do not have a list.
We check each herb
Some herbs affect blood thinners, blood sugar, blood pressure, thyroid and heart medicines. We compare your list with each herb in a formula before we write it.
Tell us about your body
Pregnancy, nursing, liver or kidney disease, allergies, and any surgery coming up. Some herbs are stopped before surgery.
We keep it in your chart
Your formula and everything you take are written down, so we and your other clinicians see the same list.
We tell you what to watch for
Stomach upset, a rash, a headache or a change in how a medicine works. We tell you what to look for and when to stop.
Tell your prescriber and pharmacist
Share the name of any formula you take, and keep taking your medicines as they direct. We never ask you to stop one.
If you take a formula from us
Stop the formula and call us if you have a rash, itching, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea that does not settle, or any change that worries you. For swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing or chest pain, call 911.
Herbs are not safe for everyone because they come from plants. Some are strong, and the dose and the person both matter. We buy herbs from suppliers who give us a test report for each lot, we keep the labels with the lot numbers, and we can tell you where each herb came from.
This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Questions about herbs
Will I have to stop my medicine?
No. Tell your prescriber and your pharmacist about everything you take, including any herbs we give you, and keep taking your medicine as they direct.
Are herbs safe with my medicines?
Some are and some are not, which is why we ask for a list before writing a formula. We name the herbs that need care with your medicines and tell you what we found.
Can I take herbs if I am pregnant or trying to conceive?
Some herbs are avoided in pregnancy and while trying to conceive. Tell us before we write a formula, and again if things change. We work alongside your doctor or midwife.
Can I give a formula to my child?
Tell us your child's age and what they take. We use smaller doses and fewer herbs for children, and we ask a parent to be at the visit.
How long do I take a formula?
We give you a start and an end, often a week or two, and we ask you to come back or call before you refill. We do not write open-ended formulas.
Book a first visit and bring your list
Our front desk will ask you to bring it when you book.