Herbal formulas made for you, not for a symptom.
Chinese herbal medicine is a cornerstone of Scott Paglia's practice. He has prescribed custom formulas for 26 years, runs a dedicated herbal clinic in Bellingham, and teaches other acupuncturists how to bring herbs into their practices.
Why formulas, not single herbs?
Herbal medicine has been used by every culture, East and West, for thousands of years, and it was the dominant form of medicine until the last century. Many modern drugs isolate one active compound from a plant. That can work fast, but the concentration can also bring strong side effects.
Chinese herbs are usually prescribed in combination. The ingredients of a formula balance each other and work together, which is designed to make them both effective and gentle. The aim is to correct the imbalance underneath, not just quiet the symptom, and to support your body's own ability to heal.
Herbs can also be a cost-effective option, especially for people who want to reduce their reliance on medications. Always talk with your physician before changing any prescription.
Matched to your pattern and your diagnosis
Your pattern
Scott primarily prescribes multi-ingredient patent formulas that correspond to both your personal Chinese medical pattern and your Chinese disease diagnosis.
Your form
Pills, powders, teas (decoctions), tinctures, and external compresses, liniments and plasters. Whatever fits your life.
Your progress
Formulas are reviewed as you improve and adjusted as your pattern changes, often alongside acupuncture.
Where our herbs come from
- Most formulas are manufactured in the U.S. at FDA-registered facilities, using high-quality ingredients
- Products are tested in independent labs for purity, safety and bioavailability
- Formulas made in China are produced under strict quality controls, then tested in certified U.S. laboratories for heavy metals, microbial contamination and pesticides before they reach our office
- Organic ingredients whenever possible
- No herbs that contain common allergens or endangered species
Please tell us about every medication and supplement you take so we can check for interactions.
For the first time in my twenty years of asthma inhalers, I have been able to cut my medication in half as a result of acupuncture treatments and herbal formulas. I hope to eliminate inhalers completely, in time, by continuing my treatments at the Acupuncture Health Center.
Individual experience. Results vary. Never change a prescribed medication without your doctor.
Find out if herbs are right for you.
Tell us a little about what's going on. Our front desk will call you back to find a time that works and answer any questions about cost and insurance.
- A thorough consultation and health history
- A traditional Chinese medicine exam: pulse, tongue and more
- Your findings explained, with a treatment plan built for you
- Acupuncture, herbal medicine or both, whatever fits you best
You'll see Scott Paglia or Ryan Barber, licensed acupuncturists.“The office ladies are helpful and attentive. I especially enjoy the atmosphere of relaxed good humor that usually pervades the space.”