What Is Bell's Palsy Supplement?
Bell's Palsy Formula is a traditional Chinese herbal formula designed to support facial nerve health, facial muscle function, normal facial movement, and the healthy circulation of Qi and Blood for individuals experiencing one-sided facial weakness, facial drooping, twitching, spasms, or facial imbalance.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sudden one-sided facial weakness is commonly associated with Wind obstructing the facial channels and interfering with the circulation of Qi and Blood. When the facial channels are not properly nourished, individuals may experience facial asymmetry, muscle weakness, numbness, twitching, stiffness, spasms, difficulty smiling, or difficulty closing one eye completely.
Traditional theory also considers the relationship between the Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen, Stomach, Qi, Blood, and defensive Qi when evaluating facial nerve and muscle patterns. The left side is traditionally associated more closely with Blood, while the right side is associated more closely with Qi.
Some individuals may also present with a Shaoyang pattern involving alternating sensations of heat and cold, chest or rib-side fullness, poor appetite, irritability, nausea, bitter taste in the mouth, or a wiry pulse. Regulating Shaoyang and supporting harmonious Liver and Gallbladder function may therefore be considered when these signs accompany facial weakness or twitching.
Overwork, insufficient sleep, staying up late, prolonged stress, irregular meals, and weakened digestion may further deplete Qi and Blood and reduce nourishment of the facial muscles and channels.
Bell's Palsy Formula is commonly chosen by individuals seeking traditional herbal support for facial nerve health, facial muscle control, one-sided facial weakness, facial drooping, twitching, spasms, healthy facial movement, and balanced circulation of Qi and Blood.*
Common Signs of Facial Nerve and Qi & Blood Imbalance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
- One-sided facial drooping or weakness
- Facial asymmetry or an uneven smile
- Facial muscle weakness or reduced control
- Difficulty smiling or making facial expressions
- Difficulty closing one eye completely
- Involuntary facial twitching or spasms
- Facial numbness, tingling, or heaviness
- Facial tightness or stiffness
- Difficulty puffing the cheeks or whistling
- Impaired movement of the mouth or eyelid
- Symptoms appearing after overwork or exhaustion
- Facial symptoms associated with insufficient sleep
- Alternating sensations of heat and cold
- Chest or rib-side fullness
- Poor appetite or digestive weakness
- Irritability, nausea, or bitter taste associated with a Shaoyang pattern
- Qi and Blood deficiency or poor circulation through the facial channels
Why Choose Silkie Herbs Bell's Palsy Formula?
- Based on traditional Chinese herbal principles
- Made with carefully selected medicinal herbs
- Designed to support facial nerve and facial muscle health
- Traditionally used to promote healthy circulation of Qi and Blood through the facial channels
- Supports normal facial movement, symmetry, and muscle control
- Traditionally formulated for patterns involving Wind and channel obstruction
- Supports harmonious Liver and Gallbladder function according to TCM principles
- Formulated to support TCM patterns involving Wind, channel obstruction, and impaired circulation of Qi and Blood
- Crafted to support facial balance, circulation, and overall vitality
Suggested Combination for Comprehensive Facial Nerve Support
For individuals experiencing facial weakness, drooping, twitching, spasms, fatigue, weak digestion, low vitality, or Qi and Blood deficiency, Bell's Palsy Formula may be paired with Spleen Support, Blood and Stamina, or Immune Booster according to the individual’s constitution and TCM pattern.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy facial movement depends on open facial channels and sufficient Qi and Blood to nourish the muscles, nerves, and tissues of the face. Additional formulas may therefore be selected when weak digestion, physical depletion, insufficient nourishment, or weak defensive Qi contributes to the underlying imbalance.
Spleen Support may be considered when facial weakness occurs with poor appetite, bloating, loose stools, fatigue, sweet cravings, Dampness, or weak digestion. Strengthening Spleen and Stomach Qi supports the transformation of food into the Qi and Blood needed to nourish the muscles and facial channels.
Blood and Stamina may be considered when facial weakness or prolonged recovery occurs with fatigue, physical weakness, poor circulation, or signs of Qi and Blood deficiency. Blood nourishes the muscles, tendons, tissues, and channels, while Qi helps circulate Blood throughout the body and face.
Immune Booster may be considered when facial weakness develops with exhaustion, seasonal challenges, environmental exposure, low vitality, or weak defensive Qi. It traditionally supports Lung Qi, defensive Qi, natural resilience, and overall vitality.
Together, these formulas provide a comprehensive TCM approach by supporting facial nerve and muscle health, healthy Qi and Blood circulation, digestion and nutrient transformation, defensive Qi, facial movement, and overall 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 Bell's Palsy Formula for Facial Paralysis, One-Sided Facial Drooping & Facial Nerve Support
Supports Healthy Facial Nerve Function and Long-Term Wellness*
Bell's Palsy Formula is traditionally used to support facial nerve health and normal facial function according to Traditional Chinese herbal principles. It may be considered by individuals seeking traditional support for Bell's palsy, facial paralysis, one-sided facial drooping, facial weakness, or reduced facial muscle control.
Supports Facial Muscle Strength, Movement, and Coordination*
Healthy facial muscles depend on proper nourishment and the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood. This formula is traditionally used to support facial muscle strength, movement, coordination, facial symmetry, and the ability to smile, blink, raise the eyebrows, and make normal facial expressions.
Promotes Healthy Qi and Blood Circulation to the Face*
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi and Blood must circulate freely through the facial channels to nourish the nerves, muscles, and surrounding tissues. This formula is traditionally used to promote healthy facial circulation and support normal facial movement.
Supports Facial Channels Affected by Wind Obstruction*
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, sudden facial weakness, twitching, spasms, numbness, or facial imbalance may be associated with Wind obstructing the channels and collaterals. This formula is traditionally used to calm internal Wind, support open facial channels, and maintain balanced facial muscle function.
Supports Healthy Liver Qi and Gallbladder Function*
The Liver and Gallbladder channels influence the smooth movement of Qi and travel through areas affecting the head and face. This formula is traditionally used to regulate Liver Qi, support Gallbladder balance, and promote healthy facial movement and muscle coordination.
Helps Maintain Comfortable Eating, Drinking, and Speaking*
Facial muscle weakness or one-sided facial drooping may affect chewing, drinking, speaking, whistling, or keeping food and liquids inside the mouth. This formula is traditionally used to support facial muscle control and comfortable everyday function.
Supports Healthy Eye, Mouth, and Facial Muscle Function*
Individuals with facial paralysis or facial nerve weakness may experience difficulty blinking, closing one eye completely, controlling one side of the mouth, or maintaining facial symmetry. This formula is traditionally used to support healthy function of the eyelids, cheeks, lips, mouth, and facial muscles.
Supports Digestion and the Production of Qi and Blood*
Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that healthy Spleen and Stomach function supports the production of Qi and Blood needed to nourish the muscles, nerves, and facial channels. This formula is traditionally used to support digestion, nourishment, and the body’s natural restorative processes.
Supports Defensive Qi, Vitality, and Internal Balance*
Balanced defensive Qi (Wei Qi) helps maintain the body’s natural resilience, while sufficient Qi and Blood support healthy circulation and facial muscle nourishment. This formula is traditionally used to support defensive Qi, overall vitality, internal balance, and long-term facial wellness.
Individual results may vary according to constitution, duration of the pattern, lifestyle, 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 Bell's Palsy Formula
This formula is most appropriate for Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns involving facial nerve weakness, facial muscle imbalance, Wind obstructing the facial channels, reduced circulation, and Qi and Blood deficiency. Individual patterns may vary and can include:
One-Sided Facial Drooping or Facial Paralysis
One side of the face may suddenly appear weaker than the other, making it difficult to smile, raise the eyebrow, wrinkle the forehead, or maintain normal facial symmetry. One-sided facial drooping and facial paralysis are among the most recognizable signs associated with Bell's palsy.
Difficulty Smiling, Making Expressions, or Maintaining Facial Symmetry
Facial muscle weakness may affect the ability to smile, laugh, frown, puff out the cheeks, whistle, or make normal facial expressions. One side of the face may not move as easily as the other, resulting in a crooked smile or reduced facial symmetry.
Facial Muscle Weakness or Reduced Muscle Control
The muscles on one side of the face may feel weak, heavy, stiff, or difficult to control. Individuals may notice reduced muscle tone, decreased facial movement, or difficulty coordinating ordinary facial movements.
Facial Twitching or Hemifacial Spasm
Some individuals experience involuntary facial twitching, hemifacial spasms, lip puckering, eyelid twitching, or repeated tightening of facial muscles. These movements may occur occasionally or become more noticeable during stress, fatigue, or recovery.
Difficulty Closing One Eye, Dryness, or Excessive Tearing
Weakness affecting the muscles around the eye may make blinking difficult or prevent one eye from closing completely. Incomplete blinking may contribute to dry eyes, excessive tearing, irritation, eye fatigue, or reduced eyelid control.
Mouth Drooping or Difficulty Eating, Drinking, Chewing, or Speaking
Weakness affecting the lips and cheeks may cause one corner of the mouth to droop. This may make it more difficult to chew, drink, keep food or liquids inside the mouth, pronounce words clearly, whistle, or drink through a straw.
Changes in Taste, Saliva, or Mouth Moisture
Some individuals notice reduced or altered taste, particularly toward the front of the tongue. Changes in facial nerve function may also be accompanied by dry mouth, reduced saliva, increased thirst, drooling, or discomfort when eating dry foods.
Ear, Jaw, or Facial Discomfort and Sound Sensitivity
Discomfort may develop behind the ear, around the jaw, or along the affected side of the face before or during facial weakness. Some individuals also experience increased sensitivity to sound in one ear or find ordinary noises unusually loud.
Facial Numbness, Tingling, Heaviness, or Altered Sensation
The affected side of the face may feel numb, heavy, tight, tingling, or different from the unaffected side. These sensations may occur together with facial muscle weakness, reduced movement, twitching, or stiffness.
Individuals with complex, recurring, or long-standing facial nerve weakness patterns may require additional herbal support selected according to their constitution and underlying TCM pattern to promote healthy circulation, facial muscle nourishment, facial nerve function, and long-term facial wellness.
Important Safety Notice
Sudden facial drooping, facial paralysis, or one-sided weakness requires immediate evaluation because these symptoms can resemble a stroke. Call 911 immediately when facial drooping occurs with arm weakness, difficulty speaking, confusion, severe headache, dizziness, vision changes, or loss of balance. Do not delay emergency evaluation or use this product in place of urgent medical care.
When Bell's palsy is suspected, prompt evaluation is important because early treatment is time-sensitive. An eye that cannot close completely may also require protection to prevent dryness, irritation, or vision damage.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Facial Nerve Health
According to traditional Chinese herbal principles, healthy facial movement depends on the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, proper nourishment of the tendons and muscles, and balanced Liver and Kidney function. Daily habits that promote healthy circulation, adequate rest, and overall wellness may help support long-term facial nerve health, muscle function, and recovery.
For best results:
- Eat regular, balanced meals on a consistent schedule
- Prioritize warm, freshly prepared foods over excessive cold or raw foods
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day
- Get adequate sleep and aim for a consistent sleep routine, ideally between 11 PM and 7 AM
- Practice gentle facial exercises or massage as recommended by your healthcare practitioner to help support healthy facial muscle movement
- Stay physically active with regular walking, Tai Chi, Qigong, stretching, or other gentle forms of exercise to promote healthy circulation
- Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, relaxation techniques, or other healthy practices
- Protect the face and neck from prolonged exposure to cold wind or cold temperatures
- Allow adequate time for rest and recovery during periods of physical or emotional stress
To support healthy circulation and facial nerve wellness, it is recommended to limit:
- Highly processed foods
- Excess sugar and sugary beverages
- Deep-fried, greasy, or heavily processed foods
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Excessive cold foods and iced beverages
- Irregular eating habits and frequent late-night meals
Foods traditionally considered supportive for healthy circulation and nerve nourishment include warm soups, bone broth, leafy green vegetables, walnuts, black sesame, dates, lean proteins, whole grains, ginger, and other nourishing foods that support Qi, Blood, and overall vitality.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy digestion plays an important role in producing Qi and Blood, which nourish the muscles, tendons, and nerves throughout the body. Supporting digestive health may help promote healthy circulation and overall facial wellness.
Consistent nutrition, quality sleep, regular movement, stress management, and healthy circulation are important foundations for maintaining facial nerve health, facial muscle function, and long-term wellness.
Key Ingredients in Bell's Palsy Formula
Bell's Palsy Formula contains a carefully selected combination of traditional Chinese herbs that work together to support healthy circulation of Qi and Blood, nourish the muscles and nerves, promote facial wellness, and maintain healthy facial movement according to traditional Chinese herbal principles.
Thorowax Root (Chai Hu)
Traditionally used to support the smooth circulation of Liver Qi, promote healthy energy flow throughout the body, and maintain balance during periods of physical and emotional stress. Chai Hu has long been used in traditional formulas that support healthy circulation and neuromuscular wellness.
Ginseng (Ren Shen)
Traditionally used to tonify Qi, support vitality, strengthen overall energy, and promote healthy circulation. Ginseng is one of the most valued herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine for supporting recovery, resilience, and overall wellness.
Jujube (Da Zao)
Traditionally used to nourish Qi and Blood, harmonize herbal formulas, and support healthy digestion. Jujube is commonly included in formulas designed to strengthen the body's natural restorative processes.
Uncaria Hooks (Gou Teng)
Traditionally used to calm internal Wind, support healthy nervous system balance, and promote smooth circulation. Gou Teng has been widely used in traditional Chinese herbal practice to support healthy muscle and nerve function.
Largeleaf Gentian Root (Qin Jiao)
Traditionally used to clear excess Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder channels while supporting balanced internal function. It is frequently included in traditional formulas that promote healthy circulation and overall neurological wellness.
Lotus Leaf (He Ye)
Traditionally used to promote healthy Qi movement, support circulation, and maintain internal balance. Lotus Leaf also helps harmonize herbal formulas while supporting overall vitality.
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 facial nerve function, promote the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, nourish the muscles and tendons, maintain healthy facial movement, and support overall neurological wellness according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.*
*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: Thorowax Root Ginseng Jujube Uncaria Hooks Largeleaf Gentian Root Lotus Leaf |
| Other ingredient: Pure Honey (Traditional Binding Agent) |
How to Take Bell's Palsy Formula
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.
Healthy facial nerve function, circulation, and muscle recovery are influenced by many factors, including rest, nutrition, stress management, and overall wellness. Individual response depends on constitution, duration of the pattern, symptom severity, 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 to support healthy circulation, facial muscle function, facial nerve health, and overall vitality.
Research on Herbs in Bell's Palsy Formula
Modern research has examined several herbs used in Bell's Palsy Formula, including Ginseng Root (Ren Shen), Uncaria Hooks (Gou Teng), and Thorowax Root (Chai Hu), for their bioactive compounds and potential effects on neurological function, cellular protection, circulation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways.
Research on Ginseng and its ginsenosides has explored mechanisms involving neuronal survival, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, neurotransmitter activity, cerebral circulation, and neurological function. Most of this research involves laboratory studies, animal models, isolated compounds, or neurological conditions other than Bell's palsy.
Uncaria rhynchophylla, known as Gou Teng in Chinese herbal medicine, contains compounds such as rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline. Research reviews have examined these compounds for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and nervous-system-related activities. These findings support continued scientific interest in Uncaria but do not establish that Uncaria or the finished formula treats Bell's palsy.
Bupleurum species, including herbs traditionally identified as Chai Hu, have also been studied for their phytochemistry and biological activities. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Chai Hu is traditionally used to regulate Liver Qi and harmonize Shaoyang patterns, while Gou Teng is traditionally used to calm internal Wind. Ginseng is traditionally used to tonify Qi and support strength, nourishment, and physical resilience.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Bell's palsy and one-sided facial paralysis are commonly associated with Wind obstructing the facial channels and interfering with the circulation of Qi and Blood. Traditional formulas may therefore be designed to calm Wind, promote the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, nourish the facial channels, and support healthy facial nerve function, facial muscle control, and normal facial movement.
The studies below examine individual herbs, isolated compounds, or broader Korean and integrative medicine approaches. They do not establish the clinical effectiveness of the finished Bell's Palsy Formula. Additional well-designed clinical research is needed.
Research References
Protective Effects of Ginseng on Neurological Disorders
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4503934/
Uncaria rhynchophylla and Its Major Constituents on the Central Nervous System: A Review of Their Pharmacological Actions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31272356/
Bupleurum Species: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25280935/
Korean-Western Integrative Medicine for Bell's Palsy: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
https://www.e-jar.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.13045/jar.2020.00269
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 Bell's Palsy Formula
Thorowax Root
Thorowax Root (Chai Hu) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to regulate Liver Qi, promote the smooth movement of Qi, and relieve constraint. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for patterns associated with Qi stagnation, tension, stress, and restricted movement of Qi through the channels.
Traditional Herbs in Bell's Palsy Formula
Thorowax Root
Thorowax Root (Chai Hu) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to regulate Liver Qi, promote the smooth movement of Qi, and relieve constraint. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for patterns associated with Qi stagnation, tension, stress, and restricted movement of Qi through the channels.
Uncaria Hooks
Uncaria Hooks (Gou Teng) are traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to calm the Liver and extinguish Internal Wind. In TCM, they are commonly included in formulas for Wind patterns associated with occasional facial twitching, muscle tension, spasms, trembling, and involuntary movement.
Large Leaf Gentian Root
Large Leaf Gentian Root (Qin Jiao) is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to dispel Wind-Dampness, clear Heat, and support comfortable movement through the channels. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas for patterns associated with stiffness, numbness, muscle tension, and restricted movement.
Jujube
Jujube (Da Zao), also known as Chinese Date, is traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to tonify Spleen Qi, nourish the Blood, calm the Spirit, and harmonize herbal formulas. In TCM, it is commonly included in formulas to support Qi and Blood while helping harmonize the actions of other herbs in the formula.
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.
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“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
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Ann's Story
Here's my story.
If you feel skeptical or unsure of Chinese herbal remedies, I could hardly blame you. I wasn't a believer either until my daughter grew very sick and my father (the 4th generation herbalist) helped her get better with herbs.
I was born into a family of herbalists. My father, my grandfather, my great-grandfather, great-great grandfather were all herbalists. I represent the 5th generation in this long lineage dating back to Imperial China.
When I was three or four years old, I started to learn herbal songs and how to identify herbs. As I got older, I was taught how to process the herbs while working in my dad’s clinic in Vietnam. After we immigrated to the United States, my dad asked me if I wanted to pursue a career in TCM as an herbalist or acupuncturist. I said, “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 10 days old, I had to take her to the ER for IV injections into her little hand because she couldn’t keep milk down. Besides vomiting, she also was having diarrhea. Catherine was losing nutrition from both ends, so her tiny body was shrinking. At that time my dad warned me, “She needs to be treated with herbal medicine, otherwise she will have seizures later on.” I didn’t fully understand what my dad was talking about, so I ignored him.
My daughter got so ill that she could only take half an ounce of milk per hour. Before feeding her, I would use a syringe and shoot Zantac into her mouth to lessen the vomiting. As time passed, she needed milk more often, and consequently more Zantac. By the time Catherine was 8 months old, she needed to be fed and medicated 11 times a day.
I could hardly sleep, eat, shower or rest. Even at night, I had to drape my daughter over my shoulder for her to sleep. If I put Catherine down, she would vomit. I barely had time to squeeze in a 5-minute shower once or twice a week for myself. I was exhausted, but what could I do? I had to care for my daughter and do my best to survive each day with the hope that she would get better or at the very least her condition would not worsen.
Catherine had to wear a turtleneck with two sweaters along with a baby cap and scarf to be outside during the heat of summer, even when temperatures were 100 plus degrees. If I didn’t cover her up, she would have a runny nose, cough, and non stop vomiting. How will she be able to go to school or anywhere with air conditioning?
One day we went to a Vietnamese pho restaurant. After I set Catherine down into the high-chair, I turned around and adjusted my chair. Then I heard a woman’s shout, “Look at her!” I looked in the direction she pointed. It was Catherine…her eyes rolled up and her entire body stiff and shaking with fluid coming out of her mouth. Someone said, “Squeeze some lemon into her mouth.” I did it without hesitating and Catherine’s body relaxed.
We rushed her to the ER. For 3 days she was in the NICU where they monitored her brain. The doctors told me I was lucky because my daughter’s seizure didn’t last for more than 3 minutes which would have damaged her brain. After that I always carried a piece of lemon because I had no idea when my baby girl might have another seizure.
The seizures started to come weekly, so the doctor prescribed anti-seizure medication. Catherine wasn’t even 1 year of age, and already she was taking Zantac 11 times plus anti-seizure medicine 3 times a day. It was nearly impossible to administer the anti-seizure medicine because whenever I took out the syringe, she would cry and start vomiting.
I took Catherine to see a specialist at CHOC. I asked, “Doctor, have you ever seen any infant with this condition get well?” The doctor replied, “It depends. Some will grow out of it, but some don’t. If they don’t, then they will have to take medication for the rest of their life.”
“What do you mean by grow out of it?” The doctor explained that Catherine might get better by herself as she got older.
My mind was racing. “All this time the prescribed medication has not been treating her stomach?” The doctor said, “No, it only helps to guide the food down, so she won’t vomit it back up. That’s why you have to give it to her before the feeding.”
“Well, what if she doesn’t grow out of it?” In that case, Catherine will be dependent upon medication for the rest of her life. The doctor further informed me that she too was born with gastro reflux and is still taking medicine for the condition.
Her statement was like lightning in my brain. If the doctor can’t even treat herself for gastro reflux, how can she help my daughter? Seeing the futility of my path, I turned to my dad for help.
My dad advised me to stop all western drugs and to give her an herbal prescription 3 times a day. Administering medicine 3 times instead of 14 times a day to Catherine was a godsend to me. Even though it sounded too good to be true, I figured that I could still give Zantac to Catherine if she didn’t get better or continued to vomit.
After one month of herbs 3 times a day, Catherine vomited less and less. To test Catherine, I let her cry to see if she would vomit. She didn’t, so I knew she was getting better. After another month of herbal medicine, Catherine was able to wear less clothing without getting a runny nose, coughing, or vomiting. After 3 months of herbal formulas, she stopped having episodes of gastro reflux and seizure. Catherine will enjoy a normal, healthy life.
Because of Catherine’s dramatic recovery, I was sold on Chinese medicine and asked my dad to treat me. I fainted very easily, especially during the winter. After a few months of herbal formulas, I have never fainted again.
I started to have time to think and tried to understand why a piece of lemon helps to relax the muscles and stop a seizure. Lemon is a common citrus, yet it has magical powers that we don’t understand and underestimate. I wanted to learn more and find answers, so I decided to go to China which has a long history of herbal medicine. I went to TCM schools in China and Hong Kong and worked in the TCM hospitals to learn from the best herbal doctors in the world.
When I was there, I knew one day I would want to become an herbalist, but how can I get a steady supply of high-quality herbs. My dad and I backpacked across China and visited many farmlands. We interviewed farmers to grow herbs for us. Our products are used with the highest quality herbs that have been harvested at the height of their potency. They are substantially more expensive than less potent herbs that were harvested in the pre- or post-season.
After I came back to the United State, I worked with my dad and learned from his experiences and studied the formulas that our ancestors passed down. What I have been through helped me to understand the importance of health. Without health, don’t even talk about career, beauty, education, freedom, etc. I now have worked with many families who have suffered as I have. Their endearing appreciation drives me to work harder.
Our namesake "Silkie" is a Chinese breed of chicken that is well known for its calm and friendly temperament. They are gentle and caring and make wonderful mothers. A Silkie loves nothing more than brooding a cluster of eggs, whether they are hers or not, even if they are "duck eggs". We share the same outlook and care for our clients the same way we care for our own family.