What Is Back Pain (Cold) Support?
Back Pain (Cold) Support is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed for individuals experiencing lower back pain, back stiffness, restricted movement, a cold or heavy sensation in the lower back, and back discomfort that worsens with cold, wind, damp weather, prolonged sitting, or inactivity.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this type of back pain may be associated with Wind, Cold, and Dampness obstructing the meridians and disrupting the normal circulation of Qi and Blood through the lower back. When Cold-Dampness settles into the channels, the back may feel painful, cold, heavy, stiff, or difficult to move freely.
A common characteristic of this TCM pattern is lower back pain that worsens during cold, windy, rainy, or damp weather. Individuals may have difficulty sitting upright, bending, turning from side to side, or changing positions. Cold-Damp back pain may also become more noticeable after prolonged sitting, lying down, or rest and feel better with warmth or gentle movement.
Back Pain (Cold) Support is based on traditional Chinese herbal principles and formulated to help dispel Wind-Cold, clear Dampness, promote healthy circulation of Qi and Blood through the meridians, and support comfortable lower back movement. It is commonly chosen for traditional herbal support of lower back pain, cold-weather back discomfort, back stiffness, restricted mobility, and Cold-Damp back pain patterns.*
Common Signs of Cold-Damp Back Pain in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Lower back pain that worsens in cold weather
- Back pain aggravated by wind, rain, or damp weather
- Back stiffness after prolonged sitting or rest
- Pain or difficulty when sitting upright
- Cold sensation in the lower back or waist
- Heavy, stiff, tight, or sore lower back
- Tight muscles and restricted movement
- Difficulty bending or turning from side to side
- Reduced flexibility and range of motion
- Back discomfort that improves with warmth
- Slow or uncomfortable movement after inactivity
- Weakness or soreness in the lumbar region
- Recurring back discomfort with weather changes
- Occasional joint and muscle discomfort
- Kidney Qi weakness affecting back strength
- Poor circulation of Qi and Blood through the meridians
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Back Pain (Cold) Support?
- Based on classical Traditional Chinese Medicine principles
- Carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Formulated for Cold-Damp and Wind-Cold back pain patterns
- Traditionally used to help dispel Wind, Cold, and Dampness from the meridians
- Supports healthy circulation of Qi and Blood through the lower back
- Supports comfortable back movement, flexibility, and mobility
- Designed for discomfort aggravated by cold, wind, damp weather, prolonged sitting, or inactivity
- Crafted to address the underlying TCM pattern rather than temporarily masking symptoms
Suggested Combination for More Comprehensive Back Pain Support
For recurring lower back pain, chronic stiffness, sensitivity to cold or damp weather, fatigue, digestive weakness, allergies, or deficiency patterns, Back Pain (Cold) Support may be paired with Spleen Support, Kidney Support Yin, Allergy Relief, or Immune Booster according to the individual's TCM pattern.
Spleen Support is traditionally used when back discomfort occurs with weak digestion, bloating, loose stools, fatigue, heaviness, poor nutrient transformation, or Dampness. Strengthening Spleen and Stomach Qi supports the transformation of food into Qi and Blood and the body's ability to manage excess Dampness.
Kidney Support Yin may be considered when lower back weakness occurs with deeper Kidney deficiency, long-term depletion, dryness, night sweats, hot flashes, or reduced vitality. In TCM, the Kidneys are closely associated with the lower back, bones, Essence, and constitutional reserves.
Allergy Relief may be paired when back discomfort occurs alongside environmental or seasonal sensitivities, sneezing, runny nose, sinus discomfort, excessive mucus, or other Wind-related patterns.
Immune Booster may be considered when back discomfort occurs with sensitivity to cold or wind, frequent seasonal challenges, low energy, or weakened defensive Qi (Wei Qi). Supporting defensive Qi traditionally helps maintain the body's exterior defenses and resilience against environmental Wind and Cold.
Together, these formulas provide a broader Traditional Chinese Medicine approach by addressing Cold-Damp obstruction while supporting Qi and Blood circulation, Spleen and Kidney function, defensive Qi, environmental resilience, and long-term back and musculoskeletal wellness.*
Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | No refined sugar, corn, or dairy | No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, chemical binders, or wax
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, 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.
Benefits of Back Pain (Cold) Supplement
Supports Healthy Back Comfort, Lumbar Function, and Mobility*
This formula is traditionally used to support lower back comfort, lumbar flexibility, and healthy mobility according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles. It is commonly selected for patterns involving recurring lower back discomfort, stiffness, muscle tightness, or restricted movement that becomes more noticeable during cold weather or after prolonged rest.
Helps Warm the Channels and Promote Comfortable Movement*
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Cold may obstruct the normal circulation of Qi and Blood, contributing to stiffness, tightness, and discomfort. This formula is traditionally used to warm the channels, encourage healthy circulation, and promote greater ease of movement throughout the lower back and waist.
Supports Healthy Circulation to the Back and Muscles*
Healthy circulation is important for maintaining comfortable movement and physical function. This formula is traditionally used to support the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, nourish the muscles and soft tissues, and promote overall back wellness.
Promotes Lower Back Strength, Stability, and Musculoskeletal Resilience*
The lower back supports everyday movements such as standing, walking, bending, lifting, and twisting. This formula is traditionally used to support lower back strength, stability, flexibility, and long-term musculoskeletal wellness.
Helps Maintain Flexibility After Rest or Prolonged Sitting*
Many individuals notice increased back stiffness after sleeping, prolonged sitting, desk work, driving, or inactivity. This formula is traditionally used to support flexibility and encourage comfortable movement throughout the day.
Traditionally Used to Dispel Cold and Dampness from the Channels*
According to TCM, Cold and Dampness may settle within the channels and muscles, contributing to stiffness, heaviness, discomfort, and restricted movement. This formula is traditionally used to help dispel Cold-Damp patterns while supporting healthy circulation, flexibility, and mobility.
Supports Relaxed Muscles and Healthy Soft-Tissue Function*
Muscle tension and tightness may limit flexibility and comfortable movement. This formula is traditionally used to warm and relax the muscles, support healthy soft tissues, and maintain back comfort during everyday activities.
Supports Healthy Joints, Tendons, Ligaments, and Connective Tissues*
Traditional Chinese herbal principles recognize the importance of nourishing the joints, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. This formula is traditionally used to support connective-tissue resilience, healthy movement, and long-term musculoskeletal wellness.
Promotes Comfortable Daily Activities and Physical Function*
Back stiffness and discomfort may interfere with walking, standing, sitting, bending, lifting, exercising, or completing household activities. This formula is traditionally used to support comfortable movement, physical function, flexibility, and an active lifestyle.
Individual results may vary. Changes may develop gradually as healthy circulation, internal balance, and comfortable movement are supported.
*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.
Common Signs You May Need Back Pain (Dampness) Support
This formula is most appropriate for lower back patterns associated with Dampness accumulation, Cold-Damp obstruction, reduced circulation, heaviness, stiffness, and restricted movement according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles. Individual patterns may vary and can include:
Lower Back Discomfort When Bending Forward
Bending forward, stooping, reaching downward, or attempting to straighten the lower back may increase stiffness, tightness, or discomfort. Individuals may notice this pattern while dressing, picking up objects, gardening, cleaning, or completing other everyday activities.
Lower Back or Waist That Feels Cold, Heavy, or Stiff
Dampness-related patterns may cause the lower back and waist to feel cold, heavy, tight, or weighed down. Movement may feel slower or more difficult, particularly after prolonged inactivity or exposure to cold and damp environments.
Back Discomfort That Worsens After Rest
Lower back stiffness may become more noticeable after prolonged sitting, lying down, sleeping, driving, or remaining inactive. Gentle movement, stretching, and warmth may gradually help restore flexibility and comfortable movement.
Discomfort During Rainy or Humid Weather
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), environmental Dampness may aggravate internal Dampness and interfere with the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood. Lower back heaviness, aching, stiffness, or restricted movement may become more noticeable during rainy, humid, or damp weather.
Difficulty Standing Up After Sitting
Some individuals experience stiffness or discomfort when rising from a chair, getting out of a car, or standing after prolonged sitting. The lower back may require time and gentle movement before it feels flexible and comfortable again.
Tight Lower Back Muscles and Reduced Flexibility
Tightness across the lower back and waist may limit bending, twisting, turning, stretching, or rotating the torso. Activities such as driving, exercising, getting out of bed, or completing household tasks may become more difficult.
Heavy Sensation in the Lower Back or Legs
According to TCM, Dampness may contribute to sensations of heaviness, pressure, sluggishness, or weakness throughout the lower back, waist, or legs. The body may feel weighed down, and movement may require greater effort.
Discomfort When Lifting or Carrying Objects
Lifting groceries, carrying packages, moving household items, or performing other weight-bearing activities may increase lower back tightness or discomfort. Reduced flexibility and restricted circulation may make these movements feel more difficult.
Morning Lower Back Stiffness
Lower back stiffness may be more noticeable upon waking and gradually improve with warmth and gentle movement. Individuals may need time to stand straight, bend comfortably, or regain their usual range of motion in the morning.
Individuals with more complex, recurring, or long-standing lower back patterns may consider additional herbal support selected according to their constitution and individual TCM pattern to promote healthy circulation, fluid balance, flexibility, back comfort, and long-term musculoskeletal wellness.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Back Pain (Cold) Support
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healthy muscles, joints, and lower back function are closely connected to the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, balanced Kidney energy, and the body’s ability to resist Cold and Dampness. Patterns involving Cold-Damp obstruction may be associated with lower back stiffness, heaviness, tight muscles, reduced flexibility, and discomfort that becomes more noticeable during cold or damp weather.
Daily Habits to Support Back Comfort and Mobility
For best results while using Back Pain (Cold) Supplement:
- Eat regular, balanced meals at consistent times each day.
- Choose warm, freshly prepared foods instead of excessive cold or raw foods.
- Drink warm or room-temperature water throughout the day.
- Stay active with walking, gentle stretching, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, or other appropriate movement.
- Avoid remaining seated or inactive for extended periods.
- Maintain healthy posture while sitting, standing, working, and lifting.
- Keep the lower back, waist, and joints warm during cold, windy, or damp weather.
- Get adequate sleep and allow sufficient recovery after physical activity.
- Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce unnecessary strain on the lower back.
- Practice relaxation, breathing exercises, or other calming activities to help release muscle tension.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals with Cold-Damp back patterns may benefit from limiting:
- Excessive cold or raw foods
- Iced beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, and heavily processed foods
- Excess sugar and sugary beverages
- Excess alcohol
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Prolonged exposure to cold, wind, or damp environments
- Extended sitting without movement or stretching
- Sudden heavy lifting or movements that place unnecessary strain on the lower back
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Back and Kidney Health
A balanced diet may include warm soups, bone broth, ginger, garlic, black sesame seeds, walnuts, cooked vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and other nourishing foods appropriate for the individual.
From a TCM perspective, Kidney energy supports the lower back, bones, and physical strength, while the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood helps maintain flexibility and comfortable movement. Warm, nourishing foods are traditionally emphasized when Cold and Dampness contribute to stiffness or restricted mobility.
Supporting Back Comfort from Within
Traditional Chinese Medicine views lower back strength, circulation, flexibility, and Kidney energy as closely connected. Consistent nutrition, regular movement, proper posture, adequate sleep, maintaining warmth, and avoiding prolonged inactivity can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support long-term back comfort, mobility, and musculoskeletal wellness.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution, physical condition, activity level, digestive tolerance, and Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Back Pain (Cold) Support Supplement
Back Pain (Cold) Support contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to warm the channels, support healthy circulation, strengthen the lower back, and promote comfortable movement.
White Mustard Seed (Bai Jie Zi)
Traditionally used to warm the channels, disperse Cold, transform Dampness, and promote the smooth movement of Qi. White Mustard Seed has long been used in Chinese herbal practice to support joint comfort, muscle flexibility, and healthy circulation.
Poria (Fu Ling)
Traditionally used to support healthy fluid balance, strengthen the Spleen, and reduce Dampness. Poria helps maintain proper digestion and circulation, supporting overall mobility and physical wellness.
Mint (Bo He)
Traditionally used to promote the smooth circulation of Qi, support healthy movement, and help maintain overall balance throughout the body. Mint is frequently included in formulas that support circulation and musculoskeletal comfort.
Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong)
Traditionally used to strengthen the Kidneys, support the lower back and joints, and maintain healthy tendons and bones. Eucommia Bark is one of the most widely used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine for promoting back strength, mobility, and healthy aging.
Dahurian Angelica Root (Bai Zhi)
Traditionally used to promote healthy circulation, disperse Wind and Cold, and maintain comfort throughout the head, neck, muscles, and joints. Bai Zhi has been used for centuries to support the body's natural movement and physical wellness.
Divaricate Saposhnikovia Root (Fang Feng)
Traditionally used to dispel Wind, Cold, and Dampness while supporting healthy joints and muscles. Fang Feng is commonly included in formulas designed to promote flexibility, mobility, and comfortable movement.
Pure Honey
Used as the traditional binding agent for Silkie Herbs honey-bound herbal pills. Honey has historically been used to harmonize herbal formulas, support digestion, help preserve freshness, and improve palatability.
Together, these herbs have traditionally been used to support healthy circulation, warm the channels, strengthen the lower back and joints, promote flexibility and mobility, and maintain overall musculoskeletal wellness.*
*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: 3,000 mg |
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Herbal Blend: White Mustard Seed Poria Mint Eucommia Bark Dahurian Angelica Root Divaricate Saposhnikovia Root |
| Other ingredient: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Back Pain (Cold) Support Supplement
Adults or teenagers may take 5–10 pills once or twice daily with warm water, or as directed by a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner. If taking medications or other supplements, allow at least 2 hours before or after using this product.
Joint comfort, back mobility, and healthy circulation are influenced by daily movement, body warmth, posture, nutrition, and overall wellness. Noticeable benefits 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 Herbs in Back Pain (Cold) Support Formula
Modern research has examined herbs used in Back Pain (Cold) Support Formula, particularly Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong), Dahurian Angelica Root (Bai Zhi), Divaricate Saposhnikovia Root (Fang Feng), Poria (Fu Ling), White Mustard Seed (Bai Jie Zi), and Mint. Published studies and reviews have explored their traditional uses, botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, antioxidant activity, normal inflammatory pathways, circulation-related mechanisms, fluid metabolism, and other biological activities related to musculoskeletal wellness.
Research on Eucommia Bark has examined lignans, iridoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and other constituents for their potential roles in supporting the lower back, bones, tendons, connective tissues, strength, and mobility. Dahurian Angelica Root and Divaricate Saposhnikovia Root have been studied for their coumarins, chromones, volatile compounds, antioxidant activity, and effects on healthy inflammatory and circulation-related pathways.
Research involving Poria has examined polysaccharides, triterpenoids, immune-related mechanisms, digestive function, and fluid metabolism. White Mustard Seed contains glucosinolates and related metabolites that have been investigated for their biological activities and traditional warming properties. Mint has also been studied for its terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, antioxidant activity, and traditional role in promoting the movement of Qi.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Cold-type back discomfort may involve Wind-Cold-Damp obstruction, reduced circulation of Qi and Blood, and insufficient nourishment or support of the lower back. The herbs in Back Pain (Cold) Support Formula are traditionally combined to warm and open the channels, dispel Wind, Cold, and Dampness, promote healthy Qi and Blood circulation, strengthen the lower back, and maintain flexibility, mobility, and comfortable movement.
Research References
Health-Promoting Properties of Eucommia ulmoides: A Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4793136/
Angelica dahurica: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9283917/
Saposhnikovia divaricata—An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7176574/
A Multidimensional Perspective on Poria cocos, an Ancient Fungal Traditional Chinese Medicine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40280371/
Sinapis Semen: A Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicity, Analytical Methods and Pharmacokinetics
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10130658/
Mentha haplocalyx Briq. (Mint): A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Health Benefits and Applications
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39663516/
Research on individual herbs, extracts, teas, or naturally occurring compounds does not prove that the finished Back Pain (Cold) Support Formula diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents any disease or will produce the same results.
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
- Traditional Honey-Bound Herbal Pills
- No Capsules
- No Compressed Tablets
- No Artificial Binders or Fillers
- No Lubricants or Flow Agents
- Made in the USA
- Third-Party Tested
- Carefully Selected Medicinal Herbs
- Traditional Herb Preparation Methods (Pao Zhi)
- Classical Formula Design
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 decades of practical experience.
Unlike most modern supplements, Silkie Herbs uses traditional honey-bound herbal pills instead of capsules or compressed tablets. We do not use capsule shells, artificial fillers, synthetic binders, lubricants, flow agents, chemical coatings, or wax. Pure honey is used as the only binding agent to form the finely ground herbs into small traditional pills.
Modern research has examined honey’s naturally low water activity, acidity, and antimicrobial characteristics. In Silkie formulas, honey is used primarily as a traditional binding agent, while the quality and purity of every finished formula are verified through third-party testing.
Every formula is manufactured in the United States using carefully selected medicinal 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.
100% Pure all natural herbs, blended, made, and packaged in the USA
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 Back Pain (Cold) Support
White Mustard Seed
White Mustard Seed (Bai Jie Zi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to warm the Lung, transform Cold-Phlegm, disperse accumulations, and promote the movement of Qi. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Cold and Phlegm patterns associated with stiffness, discomfort, and sensations of heaviness or obstruction.
Traditional Herbs in Back Pain (Cold) Support
White Mustard Seed
White Mustard Seed (Bai Jie Zi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to warm the Lung, transform Cold-Phlegm, disperse accumulations, and promote the movement of Qi. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Cold and Phlegm patterns associated with stiffness, discomfort, and sensations of heaviness or obstruction.
Poria
Poria (Fu Ling) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to strengthen the Spleen, support healthy fluid metabolism, and drain Dampness. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Dampness patterns associated with heaviness, stiffness, weakness, and discomfort affecting the body and lower back.
Eucommia Bark
Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to tonify the Kidney and strengthen the tendons and bones. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Kidney deficiency patterns associated with lower back weakness, occasional soreness, weak knees, stiffness, and reduced physical strength.
Dahurian Angelica Root
Dahurian Angelica Root (Bai Zhi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to disperse Wind, relieve external Cold patterns, and promote the movement of Qi through the channels. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for patterns associated with Cold, stiffness, and occasional musculoskeletal discomfort.
honey is the only binding agent
no artificial fillers or ingredients
herbs harvested at the height of potency
100% Natural
Our herbal supplements are made with natural honey as the binder. Honey can support the lungs, intestine, spleen, and stomach; It works as a natural preservative with antibacterial and healing properties. Unlike other herbal supplement companies that use starch, magnesium, and other chemical substances as binders for their supplements, we only use 100% honey. We also avoid using vegetable capsules because they require chemical components to form the capsule shape.
Peak Harvest Herbs
The herbs in our herbal pill blends are harvested at the height of their potency and they are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre-or post-season, but in our view, there is no substitute for premium quality.
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.