Expert: Heather Vandeburg L.Ac M.S.O.M. dipl.Ac - 3/31/2011

Question
Hello Heather,
I am a board certified acupuncturist planning on becoming licensed later this year.
My concern is Chinese Herb/Drug Interactions. I have a copy of Dr. Chen's book, "Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology" relating to single herbs. It appears to be one of the best and most comprehensive books I have ever read. There is much in it dealing with drug interactions. I hear Dr. Chen has released another similar book as it applies to Chinese Formulas. Is it on the market presently, and could you recommend any other books that seem to have the same quality or better information as related to Chinese Herb/drug interactions...especially as applies to Chinese herbal formulas?

Thank you very much!

Mike

Answer
Hi Mike,  yes,  Chen's book is a good source. He has also done seminars on the topic too. I believe Bob flaws also has info on his website at Bluepoppy.com. Evergreen herbs has a nice manual but it only relates to their products and interactions. I believe it's free. Drug/herb interactions and herb induced disease was part of my training in school.  Congatulations and good luck in your practice. If you need any other practice tips let me know.  I remember what it was like starting. Hang in there it is slow going at first. It takes a good year to build up a good client base.

Warm regard,
Heather