Evaluating the Biological Actions of Chinese Medicinal Herbs

Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) is centred on a holistic paradigm which values individualised treatments, synergistic therapies, patient centred approaches and flexible treatment strategies. It centres on the use of herbal formulae, both modern and classical, which have largely been developed empirically. Today, however, this approach may not be adequate as it is of increasing importance that medical interventions and medical practice are supported by an evidence base acquired through their systematic evaluation using scientific method. Whether or not we agree with this, and such a debate is beyond the scope of this article, an evidence base is key to the wider acceptance and usage of CHM and also to the Statutory Regulation of Traditional Herbalists.