FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is After Stroke (M) Formula traditionally used for?

After Stroke (M) Formula is traditionally selected for a TCM pattern involving Mucus/Phlegm, Phlegm-Dampness, Wind, Qi deficiency, and obstruction of the channels and collaterals. Within the Silkie Herbs® family herbal system, this pattern is traditionally associated with established right-sided facial weakness, asymmetry, heaviness, numbness, stiffness, or reduced facial movement.

What does the “M” in After Stroke (M) Formula mean?

The “M” refers to Mucus/Phlegm. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Phlegm refers to more than visible mucus in the throat or lungs. Internal Phlegm may accumulate and obstruct the channels, interfering with the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood.

Within the Silkie Herbs® family herbal system, the Mucus/Phlegm pattern is traditionally associated with facial weakness or imbalance affecting the right side.

How is After Stroke (M) Formula different from After Stroke (B) Formula?

After Stroke (M) Formula is intended for a Mucus/Phlegm pattern traditionally associated within the Silkie Herbs® system with right-sided facial weakness. Its traditional functions focus on addressing Phlegm-Dampness and Wind, opening the channels, nourishing Blood, and supporting the circulation of Qi and Blood.

After Stroke (B) Formula is intended for a Blood Stagnation or Blood Stasis pattern traditionally associated within our system with left-sided facial weakness. Formula selection should be based on the individual’s complete TCM pattern rather than the affected side alone.

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine understand long-standing facial weakness?

TCM evaluates long-standing facial weakness according to the underlying pattern rather than the facial symptoms alone. Patterns may involve Wind, Phlegm-Dampness, Qi deficiency, Blood deficiency, Blood Stasis, or obstruction of the channels and collaterals.

When Qi and Blood do not circulate smoothly through the facial channels, the muscles and tissues may not receive sufficient movement and nourishment. The appropriate formula depends on which pattern is present.

What is Wind-Phlegm obstruction in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Wind-Phlegm obstruction is a TCM pattern in which Wind combines with accumulated Phlegm and Dampness and interferes with the movement of Qi and Blood through the channels and collaterals. Traditional signs may include facial weakness, asymmetry, heaviness, numbness, stiffness, dizziness, excessive mucus, reduced movement, or difficulty coordinating facial expressions.

Who may consider After Stroke (M) Formula?

This formula may be considered when established right-sided facial weakness or asymmetry occurs with signs of Phlegm-Dampness, Wind, Qi deficiency, or channel obstruction. These signs may include facial heaviness, numbness, stiffness, reduced movement, excessive mucus, fatigue, bodily heaviness, weak digestion, bloating, or loose stools.

A complete TCM assessment is recommended because similar facial signs may develop from different underlying patterns.

Can After Stroke (M) Formula support right-sided facial weakness and asymmetry?

Within the Silkie Herbs® family system, After Stroke (M) Formula is traditionally selected for Mucus/Phlegm patterns associated with right-sided facial weakness or imbalance. It supports the movement of Qi and Blood through the channels while nourishing the facial muscles and supporting movement, expression, coordination, and symmetry.

Can After Stroke (M) Formula support facial heaviness, numbness and stiffness?

This formula is traditionally used when facial heaviness, numbness, tightness, stiffness, or reduced movement occurs with Wind-Phlegm and Phlegm-Dampness obstructing the channels. Its traditional functions focus on dispelling Wind, opening the channels, nourishing Blood, and supporting the smooth movement of Qi and Blood.

Can I take After Stroke (M) Formula with other Silkie Herbs® formulas?

Silkie Herbs® formulas may be combined when the individual’s complete Traditional Chinese Medicine pattern indicates a need for additional support.

When weak digestion, bloating, loose stools, heaviness, or Phlegm-Dampness is present, After Stroke (M) Formula may be combined with Spleen Support to strengthen Spleen Qi, support digestion, and improve the transformation of food and fluids.

When Qi deficiency, fatigue, or constitutional weakness accompanies the pattern, Immune Booster may be considered to strengthen Qi and support overall resilience.

When additional Qi and Blood nourishment is needed, Blood and Stamina may also be considered according to the individual’s complete TCM presentation.

Additional formulas should be selected according to the complete TCM pattern and should not be added automatically.

Does Phlegm in TCM mean only respiratory mucus?

No. TCM recognizes both visible and internal forms of Phlegm. Visible Phlegm may appear as mucus, while internal Phlegm may be associated with heaviness, cloudiness, dizziness, numbness, stiffness, or obstruction of the channels.

In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach transform food and fluids into Qi and Blood. When Spleen Qi becomes weak, fluids may not be transformed and transported properly, allowing Dampness to accumulate and gradually form Phlegm.

How long should I take After Stroke (M) Formula?

The appropriate length of use depends on the individual’s constitution, TCM pattern, duration of the imbalance, digestion, diet, lifestyle, and consistency of use. Long-standing patterns may require continued support, but extended use should be reviewed periodically with a qualified herbal practitioner.

When and how should I take After Stroke (M) Formula?

Take After Stroke (M) Formula according to the directions on the product label or the instructions of your herbal practitioner. Consistent use is generally preferred when supporting a long-standing TCM pattern.

If you take prescription medications or other supplements, have the complete combination reviewed before use. Separating herbs and medications by two hours does not prevent every potential interaction.

What makes Silkie Herbs® After Stroke (M) Formula different?

Silkie Herbs® formulas are rooted in five generations of traditional Chinese herbal knowledge. After Stroke (M) Formula is prepared as traditional honey-bound herbal pills rather than capsules or compressed tablets.

Pure honey binds the powdered herbs, helps the pills dissolve and break down during digestion, supports digestion and absorption, moderates the herbal taste, harmonizes the formula, and naturally helps preserve freshness.

The formula is made and packaged in the United States and undergoes quality testing for identity, purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants. It contains no artificial colors, artificial flavors, chemical binders, lubricants, wax, or unnecessary fillers.