Healing Rooted in 3,000 Years of Natural Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine uses time-tested botanical formulas — crafted specifically for you — to treat the root cause of your symptoms, not just the surface. Dr. Heather Schuerlein brings doctoral-level expertise to every personalized formula.
What is Chinese herbal medicine?
Nature's Pharmacy, Precisely Prescribed
Chinese herbal medicine is one of the oldest and most refined healing systems in the world, with an unbroken clinical tradition spanning more than 3,000 years. It is a core branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), practiced alongside acupuncture as a complete system for restoring health and preventing illness.
Unlike a single herb or supplement purchased off a shelf, Chinese herbal medicine works through carefully constructed formulas — combinations of multiple botanicals, minerals, and plant-derived substances that work synergistically. Each ingredient in a formula has a specific role: some address the root pattern of imbalance, others relieve immediate symptoms, and others guide the formula’s action to a specific organ system or part of the body.
This layered, intelligent approach is what distinguishes Chinese herbal medicine from Western supplements. The goal is never to mask symptoms, but to resolve the underlying pattern that is causing them — so that when treatment ends, the improvement lasts.
"I prescribe herbal formulas the same way I practice acupuncture — based on a complete picture of who you are, not just what hurts."
Dr. Heather Schuerlein
Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
Dr. Heather holds a doctoral degree in Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and two master's degrees — one in Acupuncture and one in Oriental Medicine — from Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine at New York Chiropractic College. Her training encompasses Chinese herbal medicine, Tuina, Qi Gong, and Eastern dietary therapy, with advanced specialization in women's health and reproductive medicine. DAOM MSAOM L.Ac. FABORM Board Certified FL
Formula Forms We Offer
We make herbal medicine as easy to take as possible. Dr. Heather will recommend the form that best fits your formula, your schedule, and your preferences.
What to Expect
Every herbal medicine consultation with Dr. Heather is thorough, individualized, and designed to give you a formula that is precisely right for you — not a generic protocol.
Frequently asked questions
Will herbs interfere with my prescription medications?
This is Dr. Heather’s first consideration. She reviews all current medications before prescribing and checks for known interactions. In many cases, herbs can be safely used alongside conventional medications — but that determination is made individually, never assumed. If there is any concern, she will advise accordingly or coordinate with your prescribing physician.
How long before I notice results?
It depends on the condition and how long it has been present. Acute issues like a cold or digestive flare often respond within days. Chronic conditions — hormonal imbalances, long-term fatigue, ongoing pain — typically require a few weeks to a few months of consistent treatment. Dr. Heather will give you a realistic timeline at your first visit.
Do I have to use herbs alongside acupuncture?
No — Chinese herbal medicine can absolutely be used as a standalone treatment. Many patients come to us specifically for herbal consultations without receiving acupuncture. That said, when both are used together, results are often faster and more durable, as they address the same underlying pattern through complementary pathways.
Are Chinese herbs safe during pregnancy?
Some herbs are entirely safe during pregnancy; others are contraindicated. Dr. Heather has advanced training in reproductive medicine and is very experienced in formulating safely for pregnant patients. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, please let her know — she will only prescribe herbs with a well-established safety record for your stage of pregnancy.
Do the herbs taste bad?
Traditional decocted teas have a strong, earthy flavor that takes some getting used to. If taste is a concern, granules dissolved in a small amount of warm water, capsules, or tinctures are excellent alternatives that deliver the same therapeutic benefit without the strong flavor profile. Dr. Heather will find a format that works for you.
Is herbal medicine covered by insurance?
Herbal consultations and formulas are generally not covered by insurance at this time. We offer transparent, competitive pricing and are happy to discuss options at your first visit. Some HSA and FSA plans may cover herbal medicine expenses — we recommend checking with your plan administrator.
Ready to Experience the Difference of Truly Personalized Herbal Care?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Heather today. She’ll take the time to understand your full picture and craft a formula that’s genuinely tailored to you — not a protocol off a chart.