There is a limited range of TCM herbal remedies that are suitable for self-medication. A list of commonly used and safe formulae can be found below. However, obtaining them can be difficult, because only a few pharmacies stock them. It's important not to use any dry herbs without consulting a practitioner, as they are powerful and can be harmful when used inappropriately.
As yet, there are no statutory regulations to cover practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine. There are some self-regulating bodies, which guarantee certain minimum standards. (For more information, see Useful organisations.) Always check exactly what kind of training and experience a practitioner has. You should look for someone who has been educated to degree or equivalent level, and who has at least five years' experience of TCM practice. Those trained in China will have completed a full-time, five-year medical training programme, and will have practiced in a hospital. A properly trained practitioner will have a thorough knowledge of the theory and practice of herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion and tuina. They would also have some basic training in Qi Gung. They will choose the most appropriate method for your condition - most commonly herbal medicine and acupuncture.
It's now been estimated that there are at least 3,000 Chinese medicine shops operating in high streets across the UK. The staff may be qualified TCM practitioners, or they may not. They are under no obligation to be members of professional bodies or to be covered by professional insurance, although many do have this kind of cover. This means it is very important to check up on the qualifications of anyone whose advice you are seeking.
