Herbal Pharmacy

"Herbs are our first medicine. They are the medicine of our ancestors and of the future. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, is quoted as saying, 'Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.'"

How Safe Are Herbs?

Roughly half of all modern pharmaceuticals were either derived from herbs or inspired by herbs. Herbs are whole and complete forms of medicine — often the safest forms of medicine.

There are very few poisonous herbs in the herbal medicine pharmacy. The difference between an herb being medicinal or poisonous is its dose. Although most herbs sold in stores as supplements are generally regarded as safe, it is recommended that you consult with a professional herbalist who understands the contraindications of herbs and any potential adverse cross reactions with other herbs and drugs.

Herbs are not one-type-fits-all. Depending on the person's constitution, physical makeup, and health, a trained herbalist may use any number of single herbs or herbal formulas to treat the problem.

How Are Herbs Used?

Herbs can be used to alleviate symptoms but work best when directed at the root cause of the problem or disease. They can be used anytime — in acute and chronic phases of injury and disease — both internally and topically. Some herbs are used over long periods of time, such as herbal tonics.

What to Expect

• Herbal consults: $50–$75 depending on the complexity of the case
• Herbal formulas: $5–$65 (most bottled formulas are $25)

SOHMA has the most popular herbal pharmacy in the Long Beach area. Dr. Daniel Hoover, founder of SOHMA, holds a master's degree in both Western and Eastern herbal medicine — a rare combination that adds unmatched depth to his patient care.