In the Mediterranean, Fennel seed has traditionally been as popular as a medicinal herb as it has been as a cooking herb. It excels as a digestive and urinary tonic. Acting on the digestive system it relieves flatulence, abdominal distention and dull pain. In Chinese terms it can be said to warm the middle and […]
It is rare to see a well designed, randomized controlled study on qigong, and it is nice to see that the benefits of this ancient health art are being shown by modern scientific studies. This recent study, published in American journal ‘Daibetes Care’, looked at 251 adults with type 2 diabetes, and assigned them randomly […]
It should be no surprise that what we eat makes a massive difference to our energy levels. After all, food is our fuel. Using the knowledge and theories of Chinese Medicine, it is possible to determine the best energy-boosting foods for our own circumstances. According to Chinese medicine, our day to day Qi energy is […]
This year I would like to encourage you to grow some Calendula (Pot Marigold) along with me. In my view, it ticks all the boxes for a herb to grow at home. I only have a small garden, so every plant needs to earn its keep. Calendula does so admirably – it has beautiful flowers, […]
Moxibustion refers to the burning of Chinese Mugwort (or Moxa) – normally as an accompanyment to acupuncture or tui na in order to provide a gentle source of heat. It can be used as a way of stimulating acupoints, or used to warm a whole area. There are a few ways of using moxa – […]
Cinnamon is one of the most useful culinary herbs for warming and stimulating the Yang. It is used to improve circulation, dispel Cold and relieve chills and also to strengthen the Qi in cases of exhaustion and debility. In Chinese medicine the bark is called Rou Gui and the twigs are called Gui Zhi. It […]