Why a friend's herbal formula is not a recipe to share

A photo of a friend's herbal prescription can look like a handy recipe. In traditional Chinese medicine, the whole formula is matched to one individual.

The screenshot that does the rounds

Friends trade recommendations constantly: a hairdresser, a mechanic, a recipe for slow-cooked lamb. So when someone feels better while taking a Chinese herbal formula, it is natural for them to photograph the ingredient list and send it on. At a glance it looks like a collection of familiar plants, perhaps ginger, liquorice or dates. Prescribing, however, is about much more than choosing ingredients for their reputation.

Traditional Chinese medicine considers the formula as a whole, matched to how one person presents at a particular moment. Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, who prescribes herbal medicine in Freshwater, often explains that a list of names says too little to recreate somebody else's care, and nothing about whether it would suit you.

From borrowed lists to your own questions

That perspective can sharpen the questions you bring about your own care. What is the proposed formula meant to address? When and how will its effects be looked at together? What might lead Christine to change it? Resist borrowing a friend's prescription, and remember that a traditional rationale printed beside a long list of complaints is not evidence of effect for each one.

The paperwork that keeps things clear

Your own herbal plan should name the product precisely, set out directions in writing and include a moment for review. Keep those notes with the original packet. Let Christine hear about it whenever your other medicines change. Should an unfamiliar symptom pop up and leave you uncertain about the herbs, ring for guidance; altering quantities by guesswork is not the answer.

• One person, one formula.
• Directions stay with the packet.
• Medicine changes get passed on.

A gracious reply to a generous friend

It is possible to thank a friend warmly for sharing while explaining that your own care needs its own assessment. Should you be curious about whether herbal medicine has a role for you, bring your questions and full medicine list to the Freshwater clinic.