Herbal Medicine
What is herbal medicine?
Natural herbs have a direct impact on the human body’s chemistry
Herbal medicine is an integral part of natural and Chinese medicine due to their high concentration of nutrients, amino acids and special blood tonics. Because herbs have a direct impact on the body’s chemistry, they have been used as natural medicine for thousands of years and are steeped in a rich and ancient medical tradition. In the context of Chinese medicine, herbal medicine is used as a complex system of herbal formulas in which herbs are grouped together. In these carefully constructed collections, herbs form special relationships that work together to treat disharmonies in the body.
Herbal medicine is often used in conjunction with acupuncture treatments as the two modalities share a special relationship. Herbs are very effective in sustaining the effects of acupuncture treatments and therefore herbal medicine can be used to prolong the gaps between acupuncture treatments. Additionally, there are specific treatments that are uniquely successful when using a combination of herbal medicine treatments and acupuncture treatments.
An important aspect in herbal medicine that is often overlooked is the origin of the herbal formulas prescribed, as some plants are endangered in certain countries and regions, and some herbs are unnecessarily imported from abroad. As an integral part of her efforts to maintain a sustainable clinic, Bronwyn is very committed to prescribing organic formulas from local farms. In fact, Bronwyn creates her own line of oils, tinctures and other herbal formulas which she grows in her medicinal garden or at neighboring farms. This way, Bronwyn is able to practice “safe herbal medicine” by being involved in the entire creation process including growing, cultivating, harvesting and processing the herbs into safe, effective herbal medicine prescribed at her Berkeley clinic. Patients of the clinic have the opportunity to see the herbs that are growing in the garden and be introduced to the process of local medicinal farming in its truest sense. Patients are invited to interact with these herbs by attending Bronwyn’s classes and workshops such as seasonal herb cooking and yoga. Please visit the online scheduler to schedule an herbal medicine treatment.
What conditions can be treated with acupuncture and herbal medicine?
The World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health are among the organizations endorsing acupuncture and herbal medicine for a variety of conditions, examples of which include:
Pain (chronic and acute):Arthritis Fibromyalgia Headaches/migraines Neck and back pain Sciatica Whiplash |
Respiratory:Allergies Asthma Bronchitis and other infections Sinus problems |
Gastrointestinal:Acid reflux Diarrhea or constipation Irritable bowel syndrome Nausea / vomiting Other digestive issues |
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Women’s issues:Menstrual cycle problems / PMS Menopausal symptoms Infertility Morning sickness |
Other issues:Acne Addictions Anxiety Depression Diabetes Insomnia Support during cancer treatment Stroke recovery |
Testimonials
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“I can tell [that Bronwyn] has a great love for Reiki. She takes the time to answer students’ questions, and always asks if anyone wants to add or share.”
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[Bronwyn has a] very down-to-earth method of teaching, emphasizing community and individual strength while exploring comprehensive knowledge.
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We always begin with a talk. Bronwyn is warm, supportive, intelligent, and light-hearted. She cheers my successes and is compassionate about my struggles. She creates an atmosphere of complete safety and acceptance, which makes me feel better even before the [...]
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I am so pleased and happy about taking the 2nd level Reiki class! It has been the difference between night and day for me…! The word ‘Amazing’ is an understatement! I’m most grateful to have Bronwyn as my Teacher and Guide in this beautiful modality.
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I respect and admire Bronwyn’s calm spirit. The way she presented the material was interesting and easy to follow and understand. She has sparked an even greater interest in Reiki for me. Thank you!
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Bronwyn was excellent. [She] demonstrated a complete understanding of what she taught in an honest, vulnerable, and powerful manner.
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Bronwyn …
…is a natural and directed healer.
…has an amazing presence and energy.
…radiates a certain depth and clarity with wisdom and inspiration.
…creates a very safe space.
…put me at ease [...] -
“When you are sick, do not try to cure. Find the center, and you will be healed.” So urges a Taoist saying. Bronwyn is such a centering person and has always been a point of light and wisdom to me. Seeing her as my primary doctor right now has brought a wonderful connection and [...]
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I have worked with Bronwyn over the past nine years and she has helped me deal with addiction issues and emotional distress. She also helped me make a full recovery from a fairly serious neurological problem––numbness in my extremities. Any time I am on her table [...]
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In the sea of yoga studios and instructors that the Bay area is blessed with Bronwyn is a shining star. I’ve done quite a lot of Hatha yoga on the East Coast and West coast, I’m a certified Soma (East) Yoga teacher as well and Bronwyn is by far the deepest, most well trained teacher I’ve [...]
