4 TCM Remedies for Your Home

1) HUO XIANG ZHENG QI SAN (藿香正气散)

What it treats: Mild food poisoning, symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. It is also recommended for feng han flu 风寒感冒), which causes vomiting and diarrhoea during winter seasons.

2) XIAO CHAI HU TANG (小柴胡汤)

What it treats: Flu with fever, and symptoms such as sneezing, sore throat, bitter taste in the mouth and loss of appetite.

3) BAO HE WAN (保和丸)

What it treats: Indigestion and bloating, aids digestion and promotes gut movement.

4) YIN QIAO SAN (银翘散)

What it treats: feng re flu (风热感冒), for symptoms like sneezing, sore throat, thirst and fever.

How do I use it?

These formulations come in both powder and pill forms. You can mix powder with some warm water and drink it. If the taste is too strong or bitter, drink more water to flush it away, but avoid adding honey. Take only the recommended dosage as indicated on the product.

How long does it take for the herbs to take effect?

This depends on the type of condition and its severity. For example, a fever can usually be managed within 24 hours (a high fever reduced to a low fever), while indigestion symptoms can be eased within two to three hours after consuming the herbs.

Are there any precautions?

The herbs generally present no side effects. But if you have never used TCM remedies before, consult a TCM physician first before consuming. If symptoms do not improve after a day or two, it is advisable to see a TCM physician or doctor.