Western drugs often control symptoms, but do not alter the disease process (antibiotics eliminate bacteria but do not improve a person's resistance to infection; diuretics rid excess fluid without improving kidney function). Chinese herbs treat the root cause of the underlying condition as defined by traditional diagnosis, and rarely cause unwanted side effects.

Herbs assist the Organ Networks in the performance of their tasks. Particular herbs enhance the capacity of the Heart to propel the blood and soothe the mind; the Spleen to manage digestion and fluid equilibrium; the Lung to handle respiration and body's defenses; the Liver to maintain resilient emotions and supple limbs; and Kidney to sustain sexual and regenerative power. Some herbal formulas address ailments such as colds, allergies, inflammations, or cramps with dramatic and immediate results, while others fortify body reserves over time.

Formulas are available in a variety of forms: crude herbs to be boiled into tea, liquid bottled extracts, ground herbs packaged in pills, and powders. In China, herbs, more like foods than drugs, can supplement our diet and fortify our constitution as well as prevent or remedy ailments. Sometimes long-term use of herbs is desirable whereas extended use of pharmaceuticals would not be healthy.