What is Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbs have been used for centuries, both to treat illness, and to enhance health and longevity. Herbs are usually prescribed in combination of ten to fifteen ingredients, and are cooked for approximately sixty minutes to form a tea. Chinese herbs consist of plant parts such as bark, roots, berries, seeds, leaves and mineral products. Herbal medicine can also be administered as liquid extracts, capsules, pills, external washes and soaks, ointments and plasters. The taste of Chinese herbal teas varies from mild to sweet and earthy and pungent. Each combination has its own flavor. Chinese herbal formulas treat a wide variety of symptoms while stimulating the body's natural healing process.

What conditions benefit from Herbal Medicine?

Many medical conditions benefit through treatment by acupuncture and the use of herbal medicine. These conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Anxiety
• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Back Pain
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Common Cold
• Depression
• Eating Disorders
• Infertility
• Insomnia
• Overactive Bladder
• Sciatica
• Sinusitus
• Stress

Regular treatments aid in disease prevention, optimizing overall good health.

Oriental Medicine is also a regularly used to assist with behavioral issues including:

• Weight Loss
• Smoking Cessation

• Addictions

What to expect at your first visit?

Chinese medical theory is based on patterns of disharmony within the body. Treatment will vary depending on the particular pattern. To obtain a clear and complete picture of your health status, a careful review of your medical history and symptoms will be conducted. Also, an analysis of the tongue and pulses will yield the correct diagnosis and determine the appropriate therapy.

Is treatment covered by my insurance?

At the present time, many insurance companies recognize payment for acupuncture or herbal medicine in the provision of health care. Individuals should check with their carrier to determine if these services are covered under their health plan.

When are appointments available?

Acupuncture treatment is available by appointment. Contact the Integrative Medicine office at 847.620.4560 for appointment availability or to answer any questions you may have.

About the Practitioner

Christina Lee, DOM, L. Ac., is director of Oriental Medicine at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital Health & Fitness Center's Integrative Medicine Department. Practicing with patients for more than five years, Dr. Lee is nationally board-certified in acupuncture and Chinese herbology from the NCCAOM. She earned a four-year academic degree from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago and her advanced certification in acupuncture and moxibustion at Ghuangzhou University School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Guandong, China. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Natural Health and Holistic Nutrition at Clayton College of Natural Health.

Dr. Lee is a member of the Illinois State Acupuncture Association and American Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Association.