How is Chinese formula medicine different than Western folk herbalism?

Chinese Medical Herbalism is based on “Individualized Pattern Diagnosis” as well as a “Disease Diagnosis” according to the overall, principles, philosophy and theories within Chinese Medicine that have evolved over centuries. Indeed, these “pattern based” formulas are evidence-based and documented in a plethora of medical canons and physician lineage traditions passed down through the millennia.  This incredibly unique and complex method of prescribing and formulating herbs also uniquely takes into account the patient/client’s emotional temperament, mental proclivity and body constitution in addition to the actual signs and symptoms.  This affords a rich tradition of usage which is distinct, complex and widely applied in various ways.

Although Western folk herbalism is an incredible modality in its own right, Western herbs are often used only as single herbs or as groups of herbs to treat a universal complaint, symptom of disease, often according to a strict biomedical understanding, such as menstrual pain, headaches, or depression etc…Dr. Loop’s education also includes in depth study of Western and Ayurvedic herbalism; however, the clinical depth and effectiveness of Chinese herbalism is reason he employs this as the core of his practice.