What Is Acne Formula for Hormonal Acne, Cystic Acne & Breakouts?
Acne Formula is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed to support clear, healthy skin and address Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns commonly associated with hormonal acne, cystic acne, recurring breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed blemishes, and acne-prone skin.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acne and recurring breakouts are commonly associated with internal Heat, Damp-Heat, and imbalances involving the Lung, Stomach, Liver, and Large Intestine. When excess Heat and Dampness accumulate internally, they may appear through the skin as redness, excess oil, clogged pores, inflamed blemishes, pustules, or deep cystic breakouts.
Acne may appear on the forehead, cheeks, chin, jawline, neck, shoulders, chest, or back. Different TCM patterns may contribute to hormonal acne around the chin and jawline, deep cystic acne beneath the skin, red or inflamed pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and recurring breakouts.
Acne Formula is based on traditional Chinese herbal principles and is traditionally used to clear excess Heat, support healthy skin function, and promote internal balance. It is commonly chosen by individuals seeking natural herbal support for hormonal acne, cystic acne, recurring breakouts, inflamed blemishes, clogged pores, and overall skin clarity.*
Common Signs of Acne Imbalance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Hormonal acne around the chin and jawline
- Deep or painful cystic acne
- Recurring facial breakouts
- Red, swollen, or inflamed pimples
- Pus-filled blemishes or pustules
- Blackheads and clogged pores
- Whiteheads or closed comedones
- Oily or congested acne-prone skin
- Forehead, cheek, chin, or jawline acne
- Back, shoulder, chest, or neck acne
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Breakouts associated with hormonal changes
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Acne Formula?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Traditionally formulated to clear excess internal Heat
- Supports clear, healthy skin from within
- Supports internal balance associated with hormonal and cystic acne patterns
- Traditionally used for red, inflamed, congested, and acne-prone skin
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Addresses underlying TCM patterns rather than temporarily masking breakouts
Suggested Combination for Comprehensive Acne & Skin Support
For recurring hormonal acne, cystic acne, persistent breakouts, digestive weakness, or Yin deficiency patterns, Acne Formula may be paired with Spleen Support or Kidney Yin Support according to the individual's TCM pattern.
In TCM, healthy skin depends on more than clearing Heat. Proper digestion, fluid metabolism, Qi and Blood production, and adequate Yin also help maintain internal balance.
Spleen Support is traditionally used when acne occurs with bloating, loose stools, sweet cravings, fatigue, heaviness, oily skin, or Dampness. Strengthening Spleen and Stomach Qi supports digestion, nutrient transformation, fluid metabolism, and healthy skin.
Kidney Yin Support is traditionally recommended when hormonal or cystic breakouts occur with Yin deficiency signs such as night sweating, feeling warm at night, dry mouth or throat, hot flashes, or long-term depletion. Nourishing Kidney Yin helps maintain healthy fluids and Yin-Yang balance.
Together, these formulas provide a comprehensive TCM approach by addressing excess Heat while supporting digestion, fluid metabolism, Yin nourishment, and long-term skin wellness.*
Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | No refined sugar, corn, or dairy | No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, chemical binders, or wax
Made with carefully selected traditional herbs and pure honey; blended and packaged in the USA.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Traditional Benefits of Acne Formula
Supports Clear, Healthy-Looking Skin*
This traditional Chinese herbal formula is designed to support clear, healthy-looking skin and a balanced complexion. It may help support individuals experiencing recurring blemishes, breakouts, uneven skin appearance, and other common skin concerns while promoting smoother-looking skin and overall skin wellness from within.
Supports Hormonal Acne & Skin Balance*
Hormonal fluctuations may contribute to recurring breakouts, particularly around the chin, jawline, cheeks, and lower face. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), supporting the Liver, Spleen, circulation, and overall internal balance may help promote healthier-looking skin during times of hormonal change.
Helps Clear Excess Heat & Support Skin Redness*
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, excess internal Heat is commonly associated with red, irritated, inflamed, or uncomfortable blemishes. This formula is traditionally used to help clear excess Heat, restore internal balance, and support a calmer, healthier-looking complexion.
Supports Healthy Oil Balance, Pores & Clogged Skin*
Excess oil, clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and enlarged-looking pores commonly occur alongside recurring acne and breakouts. This formula is traditionally used to support healthy oil balance, clearer-looking pores, and a more balanced complexion without focusing only on the skin's surface.
Supports a Healthy Response to Skin Inflammation*
Redness, irritation, tenderness, and inflamed-looking blemishes can accompany acne-prone skin. This traditional herbal formula supports normal skin function and the body's healthy inflammatory response while promoting greater skin comfort and a calmer, more balanced appearance.
Supports Face, Chest, Back & Body Acne Concerns*
Breakouts are not limited to the face and may also appear on the forehead, cheeks, chin, jawline, chest, shoulders, and back. This formula supports healthy skin throughout the body by addressing internal patterns traditionally associated with recurring skin imbalance.
Supports Healthy Digestion & the Skin-Gut Connection*
Traditional Chinese Medicine closely connects digestive health with the appearance of the skin. When the Spleen and digestive system become imbalanced, Dampness and Heat may accumulate. This formula traditionally supports healthy digestion, nutrient processing, elimination, and internal balance to promote healthier-looking skin.
Supports Liver Balance & Healthy Skin During Stress*
In TCM, the Liver helps maintain the smooth flow of Qi and is closely associated with emotional balance, circulation, and skin health. Stress and Liver Qi stagnation may contribute to internal imbalance and recurring breakouts. This formula traditionally supports healthy Liver function and balanced Qi flow.
Supports Long-Term Skin Balance & Recurring Breakouts*
Rather than focusing only on temporary or surface-level skin concerns, this traditional Chinese herbal formula is designed to support the underlying patterns associated with recurring breakouts. Consistent use as part of a healthy lifestyle may help maintain clearer-looking skin, skin comfort, and long-term complexion balance.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.
Common Signs You May Need Acne Formula
This formula is most appropriate for patterns associated with excess Heat, Damp-Heat, skin inflammation, digestive imbalance, and recurring skin concerns according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Different individuals may experience different signs and symptoms, including:
Hormonal Acne, Cystic Acne & Recurring Breakouts
Individuals may experience hormonal acne, cystic acne, stubborn pimples, deep blemishes, or recurring breakouts that repeatedly return despite changes in skincare products or routines. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, persistent acne may be associated with underlying patterns of Heat, Damp-Heat, Qi stagnation, or internal imbalance.
Painful, Deep Under-the-Skin Pimples & Inflamed Blemishes
Large, tender, painful, or deep under-the-skin pimples may take longer to resolve and frequently return in the same areas. Red, swollen, irritated, or inflamed-looking blemishes are commonly associated with excess Heat and other internal patterns recognized in traditional Chinese herbal practice.
Forehead, Cheek, Chin & Jawline Acne
Breakouts may repeatedly develop on the forehead, cheeks, chin, jawline, or around the mouth. Traditional Chinese Medicine evaluates the location, appearance, frequency, and accompanying symptoms of acne together to help identify the underlying pattern contributing to recurring skin imbalance.
Adult Acne, Teenage Acne & Menstrual-Related Breakouts
Acne can occur during adolescence or continue well into adulthood. Some individuals experience predictable flare-ups before or during menstruation or other periods of hormonal fluctuation. These recurring patterns may be evaluated in TCM in relation to the Liver, Spleen, Blood, Heat, and circulation.
Oily Skin, Blackheads, Whiteheads & Clogged Pores
Recurring acne may occur alongside excess facial oil, oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads, enlarged-looking pores, clogged pores, and persistent skin congestion. In TCM, an oily or congested complexion may accompany patterns involving Dampness, Damp-Heat, digestive imbalance, or excess internal Heat.
Redness, Skin Irritation & Post-Breakout Redness
The skin may appear red, irritated, sensitive, or inflamed during a breakout, while redness may remain after individual blemishes begin to resolve. Recurrent redness and irritated-looking skin may accompany Heat-related patterns traditionally associated with acne and other complexion imbalances.
Acne Flare-Ups During Stress, Poor Sleep & Emotional Tension
Some individuals notice that acne becomes worse during periods of stress, emotional tension, insufficient sleep, or exhaustion. According to TCM, stress may interfere with the smooth flow of Liver Qi and contribute to internal Heat, stagnation, and recurring skin flare-ups.
Chest, Back & Shoulder Acne
Acne is not limited to the face. Recurring pimples, blemishes, skin congestion, and uneven skin texture may also develop on the chest, shoulders, upper back, and other areas of the body. These patterns may occur alongside facial acne or appear primarily as body acne.
Breakouts Associated With Digestive Imbalance, Greasy Foods & Sugar
Some individuals notice increased breakouts alongside bloating, digestive discomfort, irregular digestion, or after frequently consuming greasy, fried, spicy, or sugary foods. Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes a close relationship between Spleen and Stomach function, Damp-Heat accumulation, digestion, and the appearance of the skin.
Individuals with more complex, chronic, recurring, or long-standing skin patterns may benefit from additional herbal support selected according to their individual Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Skin
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healthy skin is closely connected to balanced digestion, proper elimination, healthy circulation, and the body's overall internal balance. Patterns involving excess Heat, Damp-Heat, digestive imbalance, and Liver Qi stagnation may be associated with recurring breakouts, oily skin, redness, and other skin concerns.
Daily Habits to Support Clear, Healthy-Looking Skin
For best results while using Acne Formula:
- Eat regular, balanced meals at consistent times each day.
- Choose freshly prepared, nutrient-rich foods and plenty of cooked vegetables.
- Drink adequate water throughout the day to support hydration and healthy elimination.
- Maintain regular bowel movements and support healthy digestion.
- Get adequate sleep and follow a consistent sleep schedule.
- Exercise regularly to support healthy circulation and overall wellness.
- Manage stress with relaxation, meditation, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, breathing exercises, or other calming practices.
- Avoid picking, squeezing, or repeatedly touching blemishes, which may further irritate the skin.
- Keep skincare simple and gentle, and avoid excessive scrubbing or irritating products.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals with recurring breakouts or acne-prone skin may benefit from limiting:
- Excess sugar, sweets, and sugary beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, and heavily processed foods
- Excess dairy products, particularly if they appear to aggravate breakouts
- Very spicy or heavily seasoned foods
- Excess alcohol
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Frequent fast food and processed snacks
- Late-night meals and irregular eating schedules
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Skin & Digestive Health
A balanced diet may include cooked leafy green vegetables, other cooked vegetables, pears, berries, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, and other nourishing foods that support healthy digestion and overall nutritional balance.
From a TCM perspective, the Spleen and Stomach play an important role in transforming and transporting nutrients and fluids. When digestion becomes imbalanced, Dampness and Heat may accumulate and contribute to patterns associated with oily skin, congestion, redness, and recurring breakouts.
Supporting Healthy Skin from Within
Traditional Chinese Medicine views the appearance of the skin as closely connected to internal balance. Consistent nutrition, healthy digestion and elimination, adequate hydration, quality sleep, regular movement, and stress management can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support clearer, healthier-looking skin over time.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution and Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Acne Formula
Acne Formula contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to help clear excess Heat, support healthy skin, promote internal balance, and maintain a clear complexion.
Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhi Zi)
Traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to help clear excess Heat, support healthy skin, and promote internal balance. Zhi Zi is commonly included in formulas designed to address Heat-related skin concerns and support overall wellness.
Tree Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi)
Traditionally used to cool and harmonize the Blood while supporting healthy circulation. Mu Dan Pi is frequently used in Chinese herbal formulas to help maintain balance and support healthy skin.
Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bai)
Traditionally used to clear Damp-Heat and support the body's natural balance. Huang Bai is one of the most commonly used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine for patterns associated with Heat, Dampness, and skin imbalances.
Dwarf Lilyturf Root (Mai Men Dong)
Traditionally used to nourish Yin, support healthy body fluids, and help balance excess Heat. Mai Men Dong is often included in formulas designed to maintain internal harmony and overall wellness.
Licorice Root (Gan Cao)
Traditionally used to harmonize herbal formulas, support digestive health, and promote overall balance. Gan Cao is one of the most widely used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is valued for its ability to support the actions of companion herbs.
Pure Honey
Silkie Herbs® formulas are prepared with pure honey as the traditional binding ingredient. Honey holds the powdered herbs together, helps the pills dissolve and break down during digestion, supports the absorption of the herbal ingredients, moderates their taste, harmonizes the formula, and naturally helps preserve freshness.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, honey has an affinity for the Lung, Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine systems. Its gentle and harmonizing nature makes it especially suitable for preparing traditional honey-bound herbal pills.
Unlike compressed tablets and conventional capsules, our honey-bound pills are made without artificial colors, artificial flavors, chemical binders, lubricants, wax, or unnecessary fillers. This traditional preparation method allows Silkie Herbs® to preserve the character of the herbal formula while making it convenient to take.
Together, these herbs have traditionally been used to help clear excess Heat, support healthy skin function, promote internal balance, and maintain a clear complexion according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Serving Size 10 pills Servings Per Container: 30 Amount Per Serving: 3000mg |
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Herbal Blend: Cape Jasmine Fruit Tree Peony Bark Phellodendron Bark Dwarf Lilyturf Root Licorice Root |
| Other ingredients: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Acne Formula
Adults or teenagers may take 5–10 pills once or twice daily with warm water, or as directed by a qualified healthcare practitioner. If taking medications or other supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Healthy skin is influenced by many factors, including digestion, diet, stress levels, hormones, sleep quality, and overall wellness. Noticeable improvements may develop gradually over several weeks of consistent use.
For best results, take consistently as directed. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas are often used daily as part of a long-term wellness routine.
Research on Traditional Herbs Used for Acne & Skin Support
Modern research on traditional herbs commonly used in skin support formulas, particularly Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhi Zi), Tree Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi), Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bai), Dwarf Lilyturf Root (Mai Men Dong), and Licorice Root (Gan Cao), has explored their effects on inflammatory pathways, antioxidant activity, skin health, and overall physiological balance. Many of these herbs contain naturally occurring compounds that have been studied for their ability to support healthy skin function and maintain normal inflammatory responses.
Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology has examined the pharmacological properties of Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine Fruit), including its bioactive compounds and traditional applications related to skin and inflammatory health. Additional studies published in Frontiers in Pharmacology have investigated the active constituents of Phellodendron Bark and their roles in supporting healthy inflammatory balance and skin wellness. Licorice Root, one of the most widely studied herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, has also been the subject of research exploring its antioxidant properties and its ability to support healthy skin and physiological balance.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, acne is often associated with patterns involving Heat, Damp-Heat, and imbalances affecting the Lung, Stomach, Liver, and Blood systems. Traditional herbal formulas are designed to help clear excess heat, support internal balance, promote healthy circulation, and maintain a clearer complexion over time.
Research References
Gardenia jasminoides Ellis: Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7587808/
Phellodendri Cortex: A Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Pharmacokinetic Review (Frontiers in Pharmacology)
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.762683/full
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): A Phytomedicine Review (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30053455/
Moutan Cortex (Tree Peony Bark): Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108107/
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acne Formula used for?
Acne Formula is traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to support healthy skin, promote a clear complexion, help maintain internal balance, and support individuals experiencing recurring acne breakouts, oily skin, inflammatory blemishes, and hormonal skin concerns.
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine view acne?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acne is often associated with internal Heat, Damp-Heat, Blood Heat, digestive imbalances, and patterns involving the Lung, Stomach, Liver, and Blood systems. Treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying pattern rather than only the appearance of the skin.
What is Damp-Heat in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Damp-Heat is a common TCM pattern associated with excessive internal heat combined with moisture accumulation. Common signs may include oily skin, inflamed acne lesions, redness, pustules, cystic acne, greasy skin, body odor, digestive discomfort, and recurring skin breakouts.
Can Acne Formula be used for hormonal acne?
Many individuals choose Acne Formula when seeking herbal support for hormonal skin concerns, particularly when breakouts occur around the chin, jawline, neck, or during hormonal fluctuations associated with menstrual cycles or stress.
Can Acne Formula help support oily skin?
The herbs in this formula have traditionally been used in Chinese herbal practice to support healthy skin function and help maintain balance in patterns commonly associated with excess Heat and Damp-Heat, which may contribute to oily skin and recurring breakouts.
Can digestive health affect acne according to Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Yes. Traditional Chinese Medicine often views digestion as an important factor in skin health. The Spleen and Stomach help transform food into Qi and nourishment. When digestive function becomes imbalanced, Dampness and Heat may accumulate and contribute to skin concerns in susceptible individuals.
Can stress contribute to acne according to Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Yes. Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that emotional stress may affect Liver Qi movement. When Liver Qi becomes constrained, Heat may develop over time and contribute to skin flare-ups, hormonal acne, redness, and inflammatory breakouts.
How long should I take Acne Formula?
Every individual is different. Skin renewal occurs gradually, and many individuals choose to use Acne Formula consistently for several weeks or months while monitoring their progress. Long-standing or recurring skin concerns often require longer periods of support under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
Can I take Acne Formula with other Silkie Herbs formulas?
Many Silkie Herbs formulas are designed to complement one another. Acne Formula is often combined with formulas such as Allergy Relief, Lymph Support, Immune Booster, Spleen Support, Detox AI, Itch and Rash (X), Blood and Stamina, or other formulas depending on an individual's constitution and wellness goals.
What makes Silkie Herbs Acne Formula different?
Silkie Herbs formulas are rooted in five generations of traditional herbal practice. Each formula is based on classical Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and uses carefully selected medicinal herbs prepared as traditional honey-bound herbal pills. We do not use capsules, compressed tablets, artificial fillers, synthetic binders, or unnecessary additives. Every batch is manufactured in the United States and undergoes rigorous quality testing to support consistency, purity, and authenticity.
Can diet influence acne according to Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine often emphasizes the relationship between diet and skin health. Excessive consumption of greasy foods, fried foods, sugary foods, alcohol, and highly processed foods may contribute to internal Heat and Dampness patterns that are commonly associated with acne-prone skin.
Why are Silkie Herbs formulas made as honey-bound pills?
Silkie Herbs uses traditional honey-bound herbal pills rather than capsules or compressed tablets. Pure honey acts as a natural binding agent and has traditionally been used in Chinese herbal medicine to harmonize formulas and support digestion. This method allows us to avoid many of the synthetic fillers, binders, lubricants, and flow agents commonly found in modern supplements.
Are Silkie Herbs formulas third-party tested?
Yes. Silkie Herbs performs testing throughout the production process, from raw herb verification to finished product testing. This includes screening for identity, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants to help ensure quality and consistency.
Where are Silkie Herbs products made?
Silkie Herbs formulas are manufactured and packaged in the United States. Each formula is produced under strict quality standards while following traditional Chinese herbal principles and preparation methods.
Why Silkie Herbs
Silkie formulas are rooted in five generations of traditional herbal practice, not trend-based supplement marketing.
- 5th Generation Herbalist Family Tradition
- Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas
- Honey-Bound Herbal Pills
- No Capsules
- No Tablets
- No Artificial Binders or Fillers
- Made in the USA
- Third-Party Tested
- Authentic Medicinal-Grade Herbs
- Traditional Herb Preparation Methods (Pao Zhi)
- Classical Formula Design
- Five Generations of Herbal Knowledge
Silkie Herbs formulas are rooted in five generations of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal practice. Rather than following supplement trends, our formulas are based on traditional herbal principles passed down through generations and refined through clinical experience.
Unlike most supplements, Silkie Herbs uses traditional honey-bound herbal pills instead of capsules or compressed tablets. We do not use artificial binders, fillers, lubricants, or flow agents. Pure honey is used as a natural binding agent to help preserve the formula while supporting digestion and absorption.
Every formula is manufactured in the United States using authentic medicinal-grade herbs and traditional preparation methods. Each batch undergoes third-party testing for identity, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants to help ensure quality and consistency.
True healing takes time. Silkie formulas honor the body’s natural ability to restore balance — the way herbal medicine has always been practiced.
Important Safety Information and Cautions
Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed. If discomfort or irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek professional guidance.
Traditional Chinese herbal formulas should be selected according to the individual’s Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern. For personalized guidance, consult a professional TCM practitioner.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
Traditional Herbs in Acne Formula
Cape Jasmine Fruit
Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhi Zi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to clear Heat, drain Fire, and cool the Blood. Its cooling properties help support a healthy inflammatory response and are traditionally used for patterns associated with redness, warmth, swelling, and skin discomfort.
Traditional Herbs in Acne Formula
honey is the only binding agent
no artificial fillers or ingredients
herbs harvested at the height of potency
Traditional Honey-Bound Herbal Pills
Silkie Herbs® formulas are prepared with pure honey as the traditional binding ingredient. Honey holds the powdered herbs together, moderates their taste, and helps preserve freshness. Our formulas are not made as compressed tablets or conventional capsules, and we do not use artificial colors, flavors, chemical binders, or unnecessary fillers.
Peak Harvest Herbs
We carefully select herbs harvested during their appropriate season, when their traditional qualities are considered most developed. Proper species identification, growing region, harvest timing, processing, and storage all contribute to the quality of a traditional Chinese herbal formula.
5 Generations
Over five generations we have collected, tested and refined Chinese herbal formulas that themselves draw from 3,000 years of experience of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a profound pathway to create the life you were born to live. It's a timeless bridge that can initiate and support change and growth in any and every life dimension: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Message From Ann
“Good Health is crucial for our overall well-being. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects, and it's important to prioritize taking care of ourselves to lead a fulfilling life. Emphasizing prevention over cure is paramount for maintaining this balance. Without health, life can become incredibly challenging. It affects our ability to pursue our goals, enjoy our relationships, and experience daily life to the fullest. Good health forms the foundation for everything else we want to achieve and experience.” - Ann Tam
Click below for
Ann's Story
If you feel skeptical or unsure about Chinese herbal remedies, I could hardly blame you. I wasn’t a believer either—not until my daughter became very sick and my father, a fourth-generation herbalist, helped guide our family through her recovery with traditional Chinese herbs.
I was born into a family of herbalists. My father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather were all herbalists. I represent the fifth generation of this long family lineage, which dates back to Imperial China.
When I was three or four years old, I began learning herbal songs and how to identify different herbs. As I grew older, my father taught me how to process herbs while I worked in his clinic in Vietnam.
After we immigrated to the United States, my dad asked whether I wanted to pursue a career in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herbalist or acupuncturist. I told him, “No, just leave me alone, Dad. I will find something I enjoy doing for work.” So he left me alone to find my own way.
I wanted nothing to do with herbal medicine until I gave birth to my second daughter, Catherine, who was born with severe gastric reflux. When Catherine was only 10 days old, I had to take her to the emergency room because she couldn’t keep milk down. She received fluids through an IV in her tiny hand. In addition to vomiting, she was also having diarrhea. Catherine was losing nourishment from both ends, and her little body was becoming smaller and weaker.
At the time, my dad warned me, “She needs to be treated with herbal medicine, or she may have seizures later.” I didn’t fully understand what he was telling me, so I ignored his warning.
My daughter became so ill that she could only drink half an ounce of milk each hour. Before feeding her, I used a syringe to give her Zantac to help reduce the vomiting. As time passed, she needed to be fed more frequently and consequently received Zantac more often. By the time Catherine was eight months old, she needed to be fed and medicated as many as 11 times a day.
I could hardly sleep, eat, shower, or rest. Even at night, I had to drape my daughter over my shoulder so she could sleep. If I put Catherine down, she would vomit. I barely had time to take a five-minute shower once or twice a week. I was exhausted, but what could I do? I had to care for my daughter and do my best to survive each day, hoping she would get better—or at the very least, that her condition would not worsen.
Catherine had to wear a turtleneck, two sweaters, a baby cap, and a scarf whenever we went outside, even during the summer when the temperature was over 100 degrees. If I didn’t cover her, she would develop a runny nose and cough, followed by nonstop vomiting. I constantly worried about her future. How would she ever attend school or go anywhere with air conditioning?
One day, we went to a Vietnamese pho restaurant. After placing Catherine in a high chair, I turned around to adjust my own chair. Suddenly, I heard a woman shout, “Look at her!”
I looked in the direction she was pointing. It was Catherine. Her eyes had rolled upward, her entire body was stiff and shaking, and fluid was coming from her mouth. Someone nearby told me to squeeze lemon into her mouth. Frightened and desperate, I followed that advice without hesitation. Her body eventually relaxed, and we rushed her to the emergency room.
At the time, I believed the lemon had helped her. I now understand that nothing should be placed in a person’s mouth during a seizure because it could cause injury or choking. I share this only as part of what happened that day—not as seizure first-aid advice.
Catherine remained in the hospital for three days while her brain activity was monitored. I was told that prolonged seizures could be dangerous. After that experience, I lived in constant fear because I had no idea when my baby girl might have another seizure.
The seizures began occurring weekly, and the doctor prescribed anti-seizure medication. Catherine wasn’t even one year old, yet she was receiving Zantac as many as 11 times a day, in addition to anti-seizure medication three times a day. Administering the medicine was extremely difficult because whenever I took out the syringe, she would cry and begin vomiting.
I took Catherine to see a specialist at CHOC and asked, “Doctor, have you ever seen an infant with this condition get well?”
The doctor replied, “It depends. Some children grow out of it, but some don’t. If they don’t, they may have to continue taking medication.”
“What do you mean by ‘grow out of it’?” I asked.
The doctor explained that Catherine’s condition might improve naturally as she became older.
My mind was racing. I asked, “All this time, the prescribed medication hasn’t been correcting what is happening in her stomach?”
The doctor explained that the medication was intended to help keep the food down, which was why it had to be given before each feeding.
I then asked, “What if she doesn’t grow out of it?”
I was told that she might need ongoing medication. That conversation stayed in my mind and made me question whether there might be another way to support my daughter.
Feeling that I had reached the end of the path I was following, I finally turned to my dad for help.
My father recommended an individualized herbal prescription for Catherine three times a day. After everything we had been through, giving her herbs three times a day instead of administering something as many as 14 times a day felt like a tremendous relief. Even so, it sounded almost too good to be true, and I remained cautious.
During the first month of following my father’s herbal approach, Catherine began vomiting less frequently. At one point, I let her cry briefly to see whether it would still trigger vomiting. It didn’t, and that was when I first believed she might truly be improving.
After another month, Catherine was able to wear fewer layers without immediately developing a runny nose, coughing, or vomiting. Over the course of approximately three months, her reflux and seizure episodes became less frequent and eventually stopped.
This was Catherine’s personal experience under my father’s individualized guidance. It is not a promise that another person will have the same experience, but for our family, it changed everything. Today, Catherine is grown and living a normal, healthy life.
Because of Catherine’s dramatic recovery, I finally began to believe in the traditional medicine that had surrounded me since childhood. I also asked my dad to work with me because I had a long history of fainting easily, especially during the winter. My own experience with his individualized herbal approach deepened my appreciation for the knowledge my family had preserved for generations.
I began thinking seriously about everything that had happened and wanted to understand more about herbs, the human body, and the traditional principles my father had tried to teach me. I wanted answers, so I decided to study in China, where herbal medicine has been practiced and developed over thousands of years.
I attended Traditional Chinese Medicine schools in China and Hong Kong and gained experience in TCM hospitals, where I learned from highly respected herbal doctors.
While I was there, I realized that I wanted to become an herbalist. However, I also wondered how I could secure a dependable supply of high-quality herbs. My father and I traveled across China and visited numerous farming regions. We met with farmers, studied how the herbs were grown and harvested, and began establishing relationships with growers.
Our formulas are made with carefully selected herbs harvested during the appropriate season, when their traditional qualities are considered strongest. These herbs can be substantially more expensive than lower-quality materials harvested too early or too late.
After returning to the United States, I worked closely with my dad, learned from his many years of experience, and studied the formulas and written knowledge passed down through our family.
Everything I went through with Catherine helped me understand the true importance of health. Without health, it becomes difficult to think about a career, beauty, education, independence, freedom, or anything else we hope to enjoy in life.
I have now worked with many individuals and families who have struggled as my family once struggled. Their trust and heartfelt appreciation inspire me to continue learning, preserve my family’s traditional knowledge, and work even harder to help others support their health and well-being.
Our namesake, Silkie, comes from a Chinese breed of chicken known for its calm and friendly temperament. Silkies are gentle, caring, and devoted mothers. A Silkie loves nothing more than brooding over a cluster of eggs, whether the eggs are her own or even belong to a duck.
We share that same outlook at Silkie Herbs®. We care for our clients with the same attention, patience, and dedication that we would give to members of our own family.
This is Ann’s personal family story and is shared for informational purposes only. Individual experiences vary, and this story is not intended as medical advice or as a promise of specific results.