Kampo Herbal Medicine
Find a natural remedy for what ails you with the Japanese herbal tradition of Kampo.
Herbal Medicine
What is Kampo?
Kampo is a practical and pragmatic system of Japanese herbal medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of conditions.
As a Kampo practitioner I use a variety of small, simple, and well understood herbal formulas to treat my clients. In Kampo, single herbs are never prescribed alone. Instead, intricate and balanced combinations of herbs are used to create effective formulae.
Kampo herbs are provided in granule form, not as raw herbs. You can learn more about taking them by reading this article.
Kampo is known for its direct and targeted approach to finding the appropriate remedy for many conditions, such as chronic pain, gynaecological concerns, mental health issues, digestive disorders, and others.
Kampo is a natural and holistic approach to health and wellness. The formulae have undergone extensive research and quality testing, and can be used in conjunction with other forms of medicine, making Kampo a versatile treatment option.
Meet Daniel
Daniel Adler is a Registered Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner who has been treating clients in Toronto since 1999.
Book a treatment
Daniel practices at the Dupont Naturopathic Family Centre, located at 789 Dupont Street in Toronto. Click below to book your treatment with Daniel.
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Are there any side effects to taking herbs?
The most common side effect is digestive. Allergic reactions are rare.
Digestive side effects may include some distention, bloating, or loosing of stool. These side effects usually pass as your body adjusts to the new substance you are taking.
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Do the herbs have to be cooked?
No. Your herbs will be delivered in granule form, much like instant coffee. They are very easy to take and only require adding hot water.
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Will I be prescribed more than one herbal remedy?
In general I prefer to only prescribe a single formula. In that way I can know exactly what has been taken into your body and can understand what to expect.
However, If your situation is complicated or you have numerous complaints, I may choose to prescribe more than one formula. For example, one formula for your basic underlying constitution and another formula to address your presenting symptoms.
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Can I explore herbal medicine on my own?
I strongly discourage exploring herbal medicine without professional input.
In order to determine which herbs are best for your needs, I will inquire about your ailment and your lifestyle to better understand your body as a whole.
The formulas and herbs discussed in our sessions are part of a much larger system. They may be appropriate for certain individuals who suffer from the conditions described, but are not necessarily the best choice for everyone in that situation.
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Can herbal medicine help with my menstruation issues?
Yes! When working with women with menstrual concerns, fertility, and other gynaecological issues, it is not uncommon to prescribe three or four formulas to be taken at different stages of your cycle.
See more information about herbal medicine and menstruation here.
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What do the herbs taste like?
They may be bitter, sour, woody, or rooty. Sometimes they don’t taste great, but they are by no means terrible!
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Kampo vs Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine
In this comparison article Daniel explains the differences between Japanese Kampo and TCM herbal medicine.
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Relieving Menstrual Pain with Herbal Medicine
Kampo offers a holistic approach to healthcare that may be able to help you find relief from your menstrual pain.
Curious about Kampo?
Contact me to discuss if Kampo herbal medicine is the right option for you.