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Origins of the Four
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Out of The Woods
Caps Versus Powder
Contraindications
Safety and Chinese Herbs

Because You Asked
The beauty of Chinese herbs is that they strengthen the body's good design without a plethora of contraindications when they are presented in a balanced formula. To be consistent with the tradition of Chinese medicine, formulas usually contain eight, twelve, or more ingredients. There is an occasional formula with only four. Rarely is a prescription written for a single ingredient. In a balanced formula, the blend acts differently than the effects of the individual herbs.

We are being bombarded by pharmaceutical advertisements that end with extensive lists of side effects that may occur. Indeed, there have even been articles in the news about problems with some Chinese herbs. It is important to understand the ways in which contraindications and spurious ingredients relate to the OHCO formulas.

The only OHCO formula with contraindications is OHCO-Motion. Its primary purpose is to increase and nourish circulation in relation to potential trauma or what the Chinese call blood stasis. It is inherently a formula that will have some blood thinning activity. Therefore, consideration should be given by your prescribing physician regarding medications that may have a similar action. For this reason, OHCO-Motion should be discontinued for 36 hours before surgery. You will probably be told to do the same with aspirin and even food for some time before invasive medical procedures.

Also, as noted on the label, OHCO-Motion is contraindicated during pregnancy. Some of the herbal ingredients may cause downward energy movement and that action is certainly not desirable until delivery time.

Aristolchic Acid, a derivative of certain herbal ingredients, has presented problems and been distorted in the news. It is true that this ingredient can cause liver damage. Unfortunately, its mention in the media was precipitated by mistakes with improper dosage and substitution of ingredients. This is simply not happening at the OHCO manufacturing facility.

Some parts of this article may cause you to want to read further. Please see our articles called Path to the Marketplace, A Closer Look (introduction), We Use These Formulas, and Safety in Chinese Herbs. You may view them on our web site or request them by mail or fax.

If a problem arises with any OHCO formula, it is recommended that you discontinue its use until you can get assistance from your health care provider. Do not hesitate to call OHCO if you have specific questions. We have many resources here in our office and want to know about your experiences with the formulas. These valuable self-help tools can become an integral part of your health care system. Know that we all use these herbs and give them to our friends, families, and pets with confidence.