What Is Back Pain (Kidney) Support?
Back Pain (Kidney) Support is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed for individuals experiencing chronic or recurring lower back discomfort, back pain that worsens after standing or walking, lower back weakness and stiffness, weak knees, and back fatigue associated with Kidney deficiency and Spleen Dampness patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
In TCM, the Kidneys govern the bones and store Kidney Essence (Jing), while the Spleen transforms nutrients and regulates fluids. When Kidney Qi or Kidney Essence becomes depleted, the lower back, knees, bones, and tendons may lack nourishment and strength. Spleen weakness and Dampness may further contribute to heaviness, stiffness, sluggishness, and reduced mobility.
Kidney deficiency back pain is traditionally characterized by a deep, dull, aching, weak, or empty sensation in the lower back. Discomfort may become more noticeable after prolonged standing, walking, physical exertion, overwork, or fatigue and may improve with rest, lying down, warmth, massage, or gentle pressure.
This formula is commonly chosen for traditional herbal support of lower back strength, flexibility, mobility, Kidney function, bones, joints, knees, and long-standing lower back weakness associated with Kidney deficiency and Spleen Dampness patterns.*
Common Signs of Kidney Deficiency Back Pain in TCM
- Lower back pain that worsens after prolonged standing
- Lower back discomfort that worsens after walking
- Chronic or recurring lower back discomfort
- Deep, dull, aching, weak, or empty sensation in the lower back
- Lower back weakness, fatigue, stiffness, or reduced mobility
- Weakness or soreness of the knees
- Back and knee weakness after physical exertion
- Reduced physical endurance and vitality
- Discomfort that worsens with overwork or fatigue
- Back discomfort that improves with rest or lying down
- Desire to massage or apply pressure to the lower back
- Lower back weakness associated with aging or overexertion
- Cold hands and feet when Kidney Yang deficiency is present
- Heaviness or stiffness associated with Spleen Dampness
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Back Pain (Kidney) Support?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Formulated for Kidney deficiency and Spleen Dampness patterns
- Designed for lower back discomfort that worsens after standing, walking, or exertion
- Traditionally used to nourish Kidney Essence and support Kidney Qi
- Supports lower back strength, flexibility, and mobility
- Helps nourish the bones, joints, knees, tendons, and meridians
- Supports weakness and stiffness associated with long-standing deficiency patterns
- Crafted from carefully selected medicinal herbs
Suggested Combination for Comprehensive Back and Kidney Support
Back Pain (Kidney) Support may be combined with Spleen Support, Kidney Support Yin, Arthritis Formula, or Immune Booster according to the individual’s TCM pattern.
Spleen Support may be considered when back weakness occurs with poor digestion, bloating, loose stools, fatigue, heaviness, or Dampness.
Kidney Support Yin may be considered when back weakness occurs with weak knees, dryness, night sweating, occasional Heat sensations, or long-term depletion.
Arthritis Formula may be considered when lower back weakness occurs with joint stiffness, aching, reduced flexibility, or discomfort affecting multiple joints.
Immune Booster may be considered when back weakness occurs with low Qi, physical weakness, low resilience, or frequent seasonal challenges.
Together, these formulas provide a broader TCM approach to supporting Kidney Essence, Spleen Qi, healthy Qi and Blood production, joint mobility, lower back strength, and overall vitality.*
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 (Kidney) Support Supplement
Supports Lower Back Strength and Comfort*
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Kidneys govern the bones and nourish the lower back. This formula is traditionally used to support lower back strength, physical comfort, and healthy movement for individuals experiencing recurring lower back weakness or long-standing discomfort.
Nourishes Kidney Essence and Foundational Vitality*
Kidney Essence (Jing) is considered the foundation of physical strength, vitality, healthy bones, and endurance in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This formula is traditionally used to nourish Kidney Essence and support the lower back, spine, joints, and overall musculoskeletal system.
Supports Healthy Knees, Lower Back, and Leg Strength*
The Kidneys are traditionally associated with the lower back and knees. This formula supports healthy knee function, lower back stability, leg strength, and comfortable movement during everyday activities.
Helps Maintain Comfortable Standing and Walking*
Individuals with Kidney deficiency patterns may notice increased lower back weakness or discomfort after prolonged standing or walking. This formula is traditionally used to support comfortable standing, walking, working, shopping, traveling, and other daily activities.
Supports Healthy Bones, Tendons, and Connective Tissues*
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy Kidney function helps nourish the bones, tendons, ligaments, joints, and connective tissues. This formula is traditionally used to support flexibility, physical stability, and overall musculoskeletal wellness.
Supports Spleen Function, Fluid Metabolism, and Dampness Balance*
Healthy Spleen function helps transform nutrients and regulate the movement of fluids. This formula is traditionally used to support Spleen function and healthy fluid metabolism when Dampness contributes to heaviness, stiffness, sluggishness, or reduced mobility.
Promotes Healthy Circulation of Qi and Blood*
Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood as essential for nourishing the lower back, muscles, tendons, and joints. This formula is traditionally used to support healthy circulation and comfortable movement.
Supports Recovery from Physical Fatigue and Overuse*
Long workdays, repetitive movement, prolonged standing, physical labor, and overexertion may gradually weaken or fatigue the lower back. This formula is traditionally used to support physical recovery, strength, endurance, and resilience.
Promotes Healthy Aging and Long-Term Back Mobility*
Maintaining healthy Kidney function becomes increasingly important with age according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. This formula is traditionally used to support Kidney vitality, lower back flexibility, physical resilience, comfortable mobility, and long-term musculoskeletal wellness.
Individual response may vary according to constitution, duration of the pattern, activity level, lifestyle habits, and consistency of use.
*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 (Kidney) Support Supplement
This formula is most appropriate for patterns associated with Kidney deficiency, lower back weakness, reduced vitality, and long-standing musculoskeletal imbalance according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles. Individual patterns may vary and can include:
Lower Back Pain That Worsens After Standing, Walking, or Physical Activity
Lower back discomfort may gradually increase after prolonged standing, walking, working, shopping, exercising, or participating in routine daily activities. The back may begin to feel sore, weak, stiff, or easily fatigued.
Recurring Lower Back and Lower-Body Weakness
Some individuals experience persistent weakness, soreness, or a lack of strength across the lower back, hips, and legs. This weakness may gradually affect posture, stability, endurance, and overall physical performance.
Weak Knees or Reduced Knee Stability
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Kidneys govern the lower back and knees. Individuals may notice weak or sore knees, reduced stability, difficulty climbing stairs, or decreased confidence during movement.
Physical Fatigue and Reduced Stamina
Low Kidney energy may contribute to physical fatigue, reduced endurance, low vitality, and difficulty maintaining normal activity throughout the day, particularly after work, exercise, or physical exertion.
Long-Standing Back Discomfort Associated with Aging or Overuse
Lower back discomfort may develop gradually after years of physical labor, repetitive movement, prolonged standing, overexertion, or natural aging. The discomfort may repeatedly return during periods of fatigue or physical stress.
Stiffness and Reduced Flexibility in the Lower Back and Hips
Some individuals experience tightness, stiffness, or reduced flexibility affecting the lower back, hips, and surrounding muscles. These sensations may become more noticeable after prolonged sitting, inactivity, or rest.
Difficulty Bending, Lifting, Twisting, or Changing Positions
Lower back weakness and stiffness may make it more difficult to bend, lift, twist, stretch, turn, get out of bed, or change positions comfortably during everyday activities.
Heaviness and Sluggishness Associated with Dampness
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spleen Dampness may contribute to heaviness, sluggish movement, stiffness, and reduced physical comfort affecting the lower back and lower extremities.
Back Discomfort That Improves with Rest or Gentle Pressure
Kidney deficiency back patterns may become worse with prolonged activity and feel more comfortable after sitting, lying down, resting, applying warmth, receiving massage, or placing gentle pressure on the lower back.
Individuals with more complex or long-standing lower back weakness patterns may consider additional herbal support selected according to their constitution and individual TCM pattern to nourish Kidney function, strengthen vitality, and support long-term back comfort and mobility.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Back Pain (Kidney) Support
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healthy bones, joints, knees, and lower back function are closely connected to Kidney energy, proper circulation of Qi and Blood, balanced digestion, and regular movement. Kidney deficiency and Spleen Dampness patterns may be associated with lower back weakness, stiffness, fatigue, weak knees, heaviness, and discomfort that becomes more noticeable after prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity.
Daily Habits to Support Lower Back and Kidney Health
For best results while using Back Pain (Kidney) Support:
- Eat regular, balanced meals at consistent times each day.
- Choose warm, freshly prepared foods instead of excessive cold or raw foods.
- Stay active with walking, stretching, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, or other appropriate low-impact movement.
- Practice gentle core and lower-back strengthening exercises when comfortable and appropriate for your physical condition.
- Maintain healthy posture while sitting, standing, working, and lifting.
- Avoid remaining seated or inactive for extended periods.
- Drink warm or room-temperature water throughout the day.
- Keep the lower back, waist, and knees warm during cold or damp weather.
- Get adequate sleep and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Allow sufficient time for rest and recovery after physical activity.
- Practice relaxation, meditation, deep breathing, or other calming activities to help release muscle tension.
Foods & Habits to Limit
Individuals with Kidney deficiency or Spleen Dampness patterns may benefit from limiting:
- Excessive cold or raw foods
- Iced beverages
- Excess sugar and sugary beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, and heavily processed foods
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Irregular eating habits and frequent late-night meals
- Prolonged sitting or inactivity
- Repetitive or heavy lifting without proper body mechanics
- Excessive physical activity without adequate rest and recovery
Foods Traditionally Supportive of Kidney and Back Health
A balanced diet may include warm soups, bone broth, black sesame seeds, walnuts, black beans, cooked vegetables, sweet potatoes, squash, dates, whole grains, eggs, fish, poultry, lean proteins, and other nourishing foods appropriate for the individual.
From a TCM perspective, the Kidneys store Essence and support the bones, knees, lower back, and constitutional strength. The Spleen helps transform food into Qi and Blood while regulating fluids. Supporting both systems helps provide nourishment for the muscles, tendons, joints, bones, and lower back.
Supporting Lower Back Strength from Within
Traditional Chinese Medicine views Kidney energy, Spleen function, circulation, physical endurance, and lower back strength as closely connected. Consistent nutrition, regular movement, proper posture, quality sleep, healthy digestion, maintaining warmth, and allowing adequate recovery can complement a traditional Chinese herbal wellness routine and support long-term back comfort, flexibility, mobility, and vitality.
Individual needs may vary according to constitution, physical condition, activity level, digestive tolerance, and Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern.
Key Ingredients in Back Pain (Kidney) Support Supplement
Back Pain (Kidney) Support contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to nourish Kidney energy, support the lower back, strengthen the tendons and bones, promote healthy circulation, and maintain long-term mobility and vitality.
Arborvitae Seed (Bai Zi Ren)
Traditionally used in Chinese herbal practice to nourish Yin, support Kidney and Heart balance, calm the mind, and promote overall vitality. Arborvitae Seed is valued for supporting the body's natural restorative processes and maintaining internal balance.
Job’s Tears Seed (Yi Yi Ren)
Traditionally used to support healthy fluid metabolism, strengthen the Spleen, and help transform Dampness. Jobstears Seed is commonly included in formulas designed to promote comfortable movement and support healthy joints and muscles.
Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi)
Traditionally used to tonify Kidney energy, nourish Liver and Kidney systems, and strengthen the lower back and knees. Dodder Seed has long been valued for supporting vitality, mobility, and healthy aging.
Fresh Rehmannia (Sheng Di Huang)
Traditionally used to nourish Yin, cool and replenish the Blood, and support the body's natural restorative functions. Fresh Rehmannia is frequently included in formulas that promote long-term Kidney wellness and overall vitality.
Gordon Euryale Seed (Qian Shi)
Traditionally used to strengthen the Kidneys and Spleen, support healthy digestion, and promote stability and endurance. Gordon Euryale Seed is commonly used to nourish the body's foundational energy and support long-term wellness.
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 nourish Kidney energy, strengthen the lower back and knees, support healthy joints and bones, promote comfortable movement, maintain flexibility, and support overall vitality 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: 3,000 mg |
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Herbal Blend: Arborvitae Seed Job’s Tears Seed Dodder Seed Fresh Rehmannia Gordon Euryale Seed |
| Other ingredient: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Back Pain (Kidney) 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.
Lower back strength, mobility, and overall wellness are influenced by daily activity, nutrition, adequate rest, healthy circulation, and the body's foundational energy. Individual response depends on constitution, duration of the pattern, activity level, lifestyle habits, and consistency of use. Traditional herbal support may develop gradually with continued use as directed.
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 (Kidney) Support Formula
Modern research has examined herbs used in Back Pain (Kidney) Support Formula, particularly Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi), Fresh Rehmannia Root (Sheng Di Huang), Job’s Tears Seed (Yi Yi Ren), and Gordon Euryale Seed (Qian Shi). Published studies and reviews have explored their traditional uses, botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, antioxidant activity, normal inflammatory pathways, bone metabolism, fluid balance, nutritional composition, and other biological activities related to physical strength and musculoskeletal wellness.
Research on Dodder Seed has examined flavonoids, lignans, polysaccharides, and other naturally occurring compounds traditionally associated with tonifying the Kidney, nourishing Essence, and strengthening the lower back and knees. Studies involving Rehmannia Root have explored iridoid glycosides, phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, traditional processing, and potential relationships with bone metabolism, oxidative balance, and healthy physiological function.
Job’s Tears Seed has been studied for its oils, polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, nutritional properties, antioxidant activity, and traditional role in strengthening the Spleen and draining Dampness. Research on Gordon Euryale Seed has examined its starches, proteins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, antioxidant properties, nutritional value, and traditional use in supporting the Spleen and Kidney systems.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, long-standing lower back weakness or discomfort that worsens after standing, walking, overwork, or physical exertion may be associated with Kidney deficiency, insufficient Essence, and weakness of the lower back and knees. The herbs in Back Pain (Kidney) Support Formula are traditionally combined to nourish Kidney Essence, strengthen the lower back and knees, support the body’s foundation, regulate Dampness, and maintain physical strength, mobility, comfortable movement, and vitality.
Current research applies to the individual herbs and their naturally occurring compounds. It should not be interpreted as clinical proof that the finished Back Pain (Kidney) Support formula diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents any disease.
Research References
Cuscuta chinensis Lam.: A Systematic Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of an Important Traditional Herbal Medicine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25281912/
Rehmanniae Radix in Osteoporosis: A Review of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacology
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28111216/
Health Benefits of Coix Seed (Coix lacryma-jobi): A Study Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9194191/
The Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review of Euryale ferox Salisb.: A Chinese Medicine Food Homology
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37298878/
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 (Kidney)
Arborvitae Seed
Arborvitae Seed (Bai Zi Ren) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to nourish the Heart, calm the Spirit, and support Yin and Blood. In TCM, it may be included in deficiency-based formulas when weakness, poor nourishment, or internal imbalance accompanies lower back discomfort and reduced vitality.
Traditional Herbs in Back Pain (Kidney)
Arborvitae Seed
Arborvitae Seed (Bai Zi Ren) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to nourish the Heart, calm the Spirit, and support Yin and Blood. In TCM, it may be included in deficiency-based formulas when weakness, poor nourishment, or internal imbalance accompanies lower back discomfort and reduced vitality.
Job's Tears Seed
Job's Tears Seed (Yi Yi Ren) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to strengthen the Spleen, promote healthy fluid metabolism, and drain Dampness. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for Dampness patterns associated with heaviness, stiffness, swelling, and discomfort affecting the lower back and lower body.
Dodder Seed
Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to tonify the Kidney and Liver, strengthen Kidney Essence, and support 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, reduced stamina, and feelings of instability in the lower body.
Gordon Euryale Seed
Gordon Euryale Seed (Qian Shi) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to strengthen the Kidney and Spleen, secure Kidney Essence, and support lower-body stability. In TCM, it is commonly included in deficiency patterns associated with weakness of the lower back and knees, reduced vitality, and insufficient Kidney support.
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.