Category: Staff

Natural Alternatives to Ibuprofen

Posted on January 16, 2026 by - Staff

Botanical Ez Relief Salve Corydalis Stick and Salve on Rock Far away
  • Verified
8 minutes read

Natural Alternatives to Ibuprofen

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Botanical Ez Relief Salve Corydalis Stick and Salve on Rock Far away

Table of Contents

If you’re searching for alternatives to ibuprofen, you’re probably in one of two camps: either ibuprofen works but your stomach (or kidneys) can’t tolerate it, or you’re on medications (like blood thinners) that make NSAIDs a bad idea. In clinic, I see this all the time—people who still need real pain support, but can’t play roulette with gut irritation, bleeding risk, or medication interactions.
The good news: you have options. And some of the best ones don’t try to “bulldoze” pain—they support circulation, calm irritated nerves, and help tissue settle down so your body can actually finish healing.

Why Some People Need Alternatives to Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). It can be very effective for short-term pain and inflammation, but it’s not low-risk for everyone.

Common reasons people need alternatives to ibuprofen:

  • You’re on anticoagulants / blood thinners (higher bleeding risk when combined with NSAIDs).
  • You have a history of ulcers, reflux, gastritis, or GI bleeding.
  • You’re trying to avoid frequent NSAID use and want a plan that supports recovery, not just symptom suppression.
This is where herbal medicine—used appropriately—can be genuinely useful.

The Herb I Keep Coming Back To: Corydalis
(Yan Hu Suo)

In the transcript above, I mentioned an herb called Yan Hu Suo, commonly referred to as Corydalis. It’s been used traditionally for pain patterns associated with “stagnation” (think: tight, stuck, sharp, or persistent pain).

What modern research says (in plain language):

  • Corydalis contains many alkaloids that researchers have been studying for pain-modulating effects.
  • One compound that gets attention is dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB), which has shown analgesic effects in animal studies and is considered a promising lead compound for pain research.
  • A broader review of Corydalis discusses multiple mechanisms—this is not a single-compound herb, and human clinical evidence is still developing.
Clinical translation: I don’t position Corydalis as a magic bullet. I position it as a serious, historically used pain herb that can be especially practical when used topically, and strategically helpful when used internally in formulas.

AOYI Tea: Internal Support When NSAIDs Aren’t an Option

If you want an internal option that fits the “can’t take ibuprofen” crowd, this is why I like AOYI Tea.
In people with Ménière’s disease, ear pressure and inflammation can aggravate cervical nerves, while chronic neck tension can, in turn, worsen vestibular symptoms. Over time, many patients develop asymmetrical neck pain that reinforces this feedback loop.

AOYI Tea combines:

  • Du Yi Wei (Lamiophlomis herba) — a Tibetan herb traditionally used for deep, penetrating pain patterns
  • Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis) — classic blood-moving pain support
  • Bai Zhi (Angelica dahurica) — often used traditionally for pain, especially when there’s tension/cold-type presentation

What patients tend to notice:

  • Less “white-hot” pain signaling
  • More ability to move without guarding
  • A calmer, less clenched nervous system response (which matters more than most people realize)
If you want to read the ingredient breakdown and intended use, see the product page here.
Practical use (general): many people do well with a consistent short course rather than random one-off use—because you’re supporting a process, not flipping a switch.
Ao Yi Tea
AoYi Tea is a traditional Tibetan Chinese herbal formula used for centuries to support the body’s natural ability to relieve discomfort, move stagnation, and restore circulation.
Get Now

Corydalis Relief Salve: Topical Support for Nerve and Muscle Pain

When people can’t tolerate NSAIDs, topical strategies become a core part of the plan—because they can be effective while keeping systemic exposure lower.

Corydalis Relief Salve is built around Corydalis extract and is commonly chosen for:

  • hands/feet discomfort
  • “nerve-y” pain
  • chronic tightness patterns that flare when you overdo it
You can learn more about the salve here.

The “double duo” approach (what I do clinically)

If pain is persistent, I often prefer a layered approach:

  • AOYI Tea (internal support)
  • Corydalis Relief Salve (topical support)
Not because more is always better—but because pain is rarely one-dimensional. You’re dealing with local tissue irritation, circulation, and nervous system sensitivity at the same time.

Other Evidence-Based Natural Alternatives to Ibuprofen

If you want a broader toolkit, here are options that many people use—each with a different “job”.

1) Topical options with research support

  • Topical capsaicin (often helpful for certain nerve pain patterns when used consistently)
  • Topical aromatics (some people do well with menthol/camphor-style rubs; not ideal for everyone, but can be useful)

2) Anti-inflammatory nutrition strategies (slow-burn, high payoff)

  • Emphasize protein + produce, reduce ultra-processed oils/sugars if they’re driving systemic inflammation
  • Hydration and mineral balance matter more than people think when tissues are irritable

3) Movement as medicine (the overlooked analgesic)

If you can find a way to move that doesn’t spike symptoms—walking, mobility work, gentle strength—this often reduces pain over time by improving circulation and changing the nervous system’s “alarm settings.”
If you’re on blood thinners or have complex medical conditions, be cautious with any supplement that can affect bleeding or interact with medications, and coordinate with your clinician.

The “Double Duo” Approach (Internal + Topical)

If you’re trying to replace ibuprofen with something that actually holds up in real life, this is the simplest approach I recommend:

AOYI Tea (internal support)

https://shop.valleyhealthclinic.com/products/aoyi-tea

Corydalis Relief Salve (topical support)

https://shop.valleyhealthclinic.com/products/corydalis-relief-salve

This pairing matters because pain is rarely one-dimensional. You’re usually dealing with some mix of:
  • Circulation restriction (tight tissues)
  • Nervous system sensitivity
  • Local inflammation and tissue irritation

Key Takeaways

  • Ibuprofen reduces inflammation by blocking prostaglandins, but that same mechanism can increase GI bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners or a history of ulcers.
  • Corydalis (Yan Hu Suo) is a classic pain herb in East Asian medicine; modern research highlights multiple alkaloids with analgesic potential, with human evidence still emerging.
  • If you can’t take NSAIDs, a practical approach is layering internal + topical support: AOYI Tea (internal) + Corydalis Relief Salve (topical).
  • The goal isn’t just “numbing pain”—it’s helping your body resolve it: circulation, nerve calm, and tissue recovery.

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Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
By Will Sheppy, L.Ac
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What’s the best alternative to ibuprofen for people on blood thinners?
It depends on the pain type and your medical situation, but many people do best with topical options, plus a practitioner-guided internal plan. NSAIDs + anticoagulants can significantly increase bleeding risk.
No. Corydalis contains alkaloids that have been studied for pain-modulating activity, including opioid-receptor-related pathways in preclinical research, but it is not the same as prescription opioids—and human evidence is still limited compared to pharmaceuticals.
That’s the “internal + topical” pairing I referenced in the transcript and commonly use as a practical strategy when NSAIDs aren’t tolerated.

References

Ibuprofen safety / GI bleeding & ulcer risk (MedlinePlus):

https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html

DHCB (Corydalis compound) research article (PubMed record):

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24388848/

Full text version on PubMed Central

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3912990/

Botanical EZ Relief Salve and Stick Together on Bark

Call to Action: A Practical NSAID-Free Pain Plan

If ibuprofen tears up your stomach, doesn’t mix with your meds, or just isn’t the strategy you want long-term, here’s the simplest place to start:
  • AOYI Tea for internal support (circulation + deep pain patterns)
  • Corydalis Relief Salve as your topical daily driver
This is “real medicine” in the sense that it respects how pain actually works: not just inflammation, but circulation, nerve sensitivity, and tissue recovery—together.
Shop Now

Treating Meniere’s Disease

Posted on January 12, 2026 by - Staff

  • Verified
13 minutes read

Treating Meniere’s Disease

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Table of Contents

By Will Sheppy, L.Ac

One of the most confusing parts of Treating Ménière’s disease is that it almost never shows up by itself. In most people, Ménière’s disease is often accompanied by other conditions that can also cause dizziness, pressure, or imbalance. When that happens, it becomes incredibly hard to tell what you’re actually feeling, what your true triggers are, and why something that helps one person doesn’t seem to help you.
Let’s go through some of these other conditions.

Ménière’s Disease Rarely Acts Along Video

Functional dyspepsia is chronic indigestion without ulcers or structural disease. In other words, your stomach isn’t working right, but tests and imaging don’t show anything obvious. Symptoms might feeling full after just a few bites, bloating that lingers for hours, nausea after eating, burning in your upper stomach, acid reflux, and that heavy sensation where food just sits.
Learning to identify and track these comorbidities can completely change how you understand progress and treatment.

Neck Pain

The neck and inner ear are neurologically intertwined. The cervical spine contains a dense network of proprioceptive receptors that constantly inform the brain about head position and movement. These signals are integrated with vestibular input from the inner ear. When the neck is inflamed, tight, or asymmetrical, the brain receives conflicting balance information, which can amplify dizziness, ear pressure, and disequilibrium. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as cervicogenic dizziness.
In people with Ménière’s disease, ear pressure and inflammation can aggravate cervical nerves, while chronic neck tension can, in turn, worsen vestibular symptoms. Over time, many patients develop asymmetrical neck pain that reinforces this feedback loop.

How it looks in the clinic

In the clinic, this most often presents as long-standing, one-sided neck tightness on the same side as ear fullness, accompanied by a sense of imbalance rather than true spinning vertigo. Patients frequently report that their dizziness worsens with head movement, posture, prolonged desk work, or stress. Neck pain can also trigger headaches, migraines, and even vestibular or migraine-associated dizziness.

Does this sound like you?

You have a lot of one sided neck pain. Neck-driven dizziness typically feels like the head is “not quite on straight,” off-center, or unstable rather than spinning. It rarely causes the intense rotational vertigo seen in Ménière’s disease. Instead, it creates a sense of disorientation or imbalance that closely tracks neck movement and muscle tension.

What Can Help

Gentle neck care often makes a meaningful difference. Techniques like neck Gua Sha, light manual therapy, and stretching can help reduce cervical tension.

Vestibular Migraines

Vestibular migraine is a neurological condition in which migraine mechanisms affect the balance centers of the brain. Rather than originating in the inner ear, symptoms arise from altered sensory processing in the central nervous system. Because dizziness and vertigo are prominent features, vestibular migraine is one of the most commonly confused conditions with Ménière’s disease, and one of its most frequent comorbidities.

How it looks in the clinic

In the clinic, vestibular migraines often present like a migraine with foggy-headedness, motion sensitivity, light and sound sensitivity, and episodic dizziness that may or may not include spinning. Attacks can come on quickly and last anywhere from seconds to days. Some patients have classic migraine headaches, while others have minimal or no head pain at all, which makes diagnosis more difficult.

Compared to Ménière’s disease, vestibular migraine symptoms tend to fluctuate more rapidly and leave patients feeling mentally “off” or visually overwhelmed rather than distinctly vertiginous.

Does this sound like you?

Your hearing is not too bad. Don’t have progressive hearing loss. Tinnitus or ear pressure may occur, but it is usually inconsistent and less pronounced. You may feel foggy-headed, visually overwhelmed, motion-sensitive, or unsteady, especially in busy environments or when moving your head. Light and sound sensitivity are common, and symptoms can come on quickly and last anywhere from minutes to days. If your dizziness feels more neurological than ear-driven, fluctuates rapidly, and leaves you feeling mentally “off” rather than spinning, vestibular migraine may be part of your picture—even if you also carry a Ménière’s diagnosis.

What Can Help

Vestibular migraines often respond best to calming inflammation and sensory overload. Ice caps and warm foot soaks can be especially helpful for reducing head pressure and migraine-related dizziness.

View Resource

Allergies, Autoimmune Activity, and Facial Inflammation

Although the research is not definitive, there is meaningful clinical and epidemiological evidence showing higher rates of allergic disease and autoimmune markers in people with Ménière’s disease. Allergies and immune activation increase mucosal swelling, sinus congestion, and facial inflammation. Because the inner ear exists within a rigid, confined space, even mild increases in inflammation or fluid pressure can significantly affect balance and auditory symptoms.

How it looks in the clinic

  • In practice, this often presents as worsening Ménière’s symptoms during allergy seasons or weather changes. Dizziness flares alongside sinus congestion, facial pressure, or immune reactions. Patients may notice ear fullness, louder tinnitus, or increased imbalance during times of heightened allergic or inflammatory activity.

Does this sound like you?

  • Your dizziness is aggravated during the summer and spring. You notice worsening ear fullness, louder tinnitus, sinus pressure, or imbalance during seasonal changes, illness, high pollen exposure, or periods of systemic inflammation. Symptoms may feel more congestive and pressure-based, and they often track with facial swelling, post-nasal drip, skin reactions, or other immune-related issues.

What Can Help

  • For immune-driven patterns, prevention matters as much as treatment. Seasonal prevention strategies such as reducing allergen exposure, supporting sinus drainage. Herbs and allergy pills can help
View Resource

Bai Zhu Balance

Ancient Wisdom for Modern Balance
The natural supplement designed to treat Ménière’s disease at its root—relieve vertigo, reduce fluid buildup, calm inflammation, and restore clarity.

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Gut Health, Inflammation, and Lymphatic Drainage

Ménière’s disease can be understood, in part, as an inflammatory condition. The gut plays a central role in regulating systemic inflammation, immune signaling, and lymphatic fluid balance. When digestion is impaired or the microbiome is disrupted, inflammatory signaling increases, lymphatic drainage slows, and fluid regulation throughout the body including the inner ear becomes less efficient.
Emerging research also suggests meaningful connections between the gut microbiome, sinus health, and ear inflammation.

How it looks in the clinic

Clinically, patients with a strong gut component often report bloating, heaviness after meals, irregular bowel movements, fatigue after eating, or food-triggered dizziness. Tongue coating changes and recurrent ear or sinus infections may also point toward microbiome imbalance. These patients frequently notice improvement in ear symptoms when dietary triggers are addressed.

Does this sound like you?

Your Ménière’s symptoms seem closely tied to digestion, food choices, or how your body feels after meals. People with gut-dominant Ménière’s disease often notice ear pressure, dizziness, or fogginess worsening after eating, especially with certain foods, large meals, or periods of poor digestion. Bloating, heaviness, fatigue after meals, irregular stools, or frequent food sensitivities are common clues.

What Can Help

Supporting digestion and the gut microbiome is foundational. Simple steps like identifying food triggers, eating regular meals, improving fiber intake, and supporting beneficial gut bacteria can lower systemic inflammation and improve fluid regulation.

View Resource

Sympathetic Nervous System Overdrive

Ménière’s disease is strongly associated with autonomic nervous system imbalance, particularly overactivation of the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) response. Chronic stress, poor sleep, and repeated vertigo episodes can keep the nervous system locked in a heightened state, disrupting blood flow regulation and vestibular stability.

How it looks in the clinic

  • This pattern presents differently from classic Ménière’s vertigo or vestibular migraine. Patients describe lightheadedness, internal shaking, increased heart rate, anxiety, or a sense of impending panic rather than spinning. Importantly, these sensations often arise because vertigo is frightening, and fear itself perpetuates the cycle.

How it looks in the clinic

  • If your dizziness feels more like lightheadedness, internal shaking, or a sense of panic rather than true spinning vertigo, sympathetic nervous system overdrive may be a major factor. People with this pattern often notice symptoms worsen during stress, poor sleep, overstimulation, or after a frightening vertigo episode. You may feel wired but exhausted, with a racing heart, shallow breathing, heightened anxiety, or a constant sense that your system can’t fully settle.

What Can Help

  • Recognizing this difference is often profoundly reassuring and helps prevent unnecessary symptom escalation. When the nervous system is stuck in “fight or flight,”l. Slow breathing practices, Loner exhales, then inhales, Nose breathing can prevent thing from getting worse. Improving sleep quality helps. Many patients also benefit from AOYI patches applied to SP-6, a point traditionally used to support calm and nurishment
View Resource

Common Causes of Dizziness

Condition

Primary Sensation

Hearing Changes

Duration

Ménière’s Disease

Spinning vertigo + ear pressure

Progressive, fluctuating

Minutes–hours 

Vestibular Migraine

Foggy, floating, motion sensitivity

Less Change

Minutes–days

Cervicogenic Dizziness

Off-balance, Disconnected

Less Change

Variable

Anxiety-related Dizziness

Light-headed, Sweating

None

Variable

Understanding these differences helps you track what is actually changing.

Key Takeaways

  • Ménière’s disease often overlaps with other conditions that also cause dizziness and vertigo
  • Tracking improvement in comorbid symptoms helps you see progress before Ménière’s attacks improve
  • Neck pain, gut health, allergies, migraines, and nervous system overactivity all influence inner ear symptoms

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Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
By Will Sheppy, L.Ac
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What is Microgard?
Microgard is a 16-herb formula evolved from the traditional digestive remedies Bao He Wan and Po Chai Pills, refined for functional dyspepsia (chronic indigestion). It addresses multiple causes of persistent upset stomach at the same time, from poor motility to inflammation and gut-brain signaling.
Take 8–25 micro pills, 2–3 times daily, or follow your healthcare practitioner’s instructions. Because these are micro pills — much smaller than standard capsules or tablets — the dosage may sound high, but the tiny size makes them easy to swallow and adjust to your needs.
Each bottle contains 18 g of traditional micro pills. Since there are no preservatives, keep the bottle in a cool, dry place and refrigerate after opening. For best results, finish the bottle as soon as possible once opened.
If you eat a Standard American Diet, have chronic indigestion (functional dyspepsia) or other digestive symptoms, and have signs of gut dysbiosis like a thick tongue coating, Microgard is likely a good formula for you. If you are unsure about Microgard, contact a TCM professional (licensed acupuncturist) who can determine if it’s the best fit.
Yes. Microgard contains no additives or preservatives, only the 16 traditional herbs. Ingredients are sourced from authentic growing regions, verified by TCM botanical experts, and tested for purity, heavy metals, and pesticide residues at a Chinese FDA-certified lab.
Microgard is not suitable during pregnancy, or for people with Celiac Disease. Consult your healthcare practitioner if you are nursing or taking medications.
Many people notice reduced bloating and post-meal heaviness within 1–2 weeks. More complete resolution of functional dyspepsia symptoms develops over several months as digestive function rebalances.
Most digestive aids only target one problem acid blockers reduce acid, enzymes help with breakdown, probiotics support gut bacteria. Microgard does all three plus more: improving motility, calming inflammation, protecting the stomach lining, and regulating the gut-brain axis. That’s why it’s uniquely effective for complex conditions like functional dyspepsia.
Microgard is manufactured by Botanical Biohacking, using time-honored herbal methods combined with modern GMP-certified quality testing to ensure safety and potency.

How the Comorbidities Can Help

Treating Ménière’s disease can feel hopeless if you only measure success by vertigo frequency.
But when you track:
  • Neck pain
  • Digestive symptoms
  • Allergy flares
  • Nervous system regulation
  • Migraine frequency
You often discover that healing is already happening. And when those layers improve consistently, Ménière’s symptoms often follow.
Shop Now

Bai Zhu Balance is specifically designed for Ménière's

Bai Zhu Balance was designed specifically for the underlying issues that worsen Ménière’s
  • Neck pain
  • Digestive symptoms
  • Allergy flares
  • Nervous system regulation
  • Migraine frequency
If you’re looking for a herbal formula specifically designed for Ménière’s Bai Zhu Balance is it!
Shop Now

Bai Zhu Balance is specifically designed for Ménière's

Bai Zhu Balance was designed specifically for the underlying issues that worsen Ménière’s
  • Neck pain
  • Digestive symptoms
  • Allergy flares
  • Nervous system regulation
  • Migraine frequency
If you’re looking for a herbal formula specifically designed for Ménière’s Bai Zhu Balance is it!
Shop Now

Which Is Better Zheng Gu Shui, Evil Bone Water, or Biofreeze?

Posted on January 1, 2026 by - Staff

  • Verified
13 minutes read

Which Is Better: Zheng Gu Shui, Evil Bone Water, or Biofreeze?

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Table of Contents

When It Comes to Topical Pain Relief, the Details Matter

As an acupuncturist, I use topical sprays every single day in the clinic. They’re not all the same. 

When it comes to topical pain relief, choosing the right topical matters. Zheng Gu Shui is a traditional Chinese herbal liniment with centuries of use. Evil Bone Water is a contemporary, handcrafted version of Zheng Gu Shui, made with high-grade herbs. Biofreeze gel is a widely used menthol-based analgesic. .

Below is a clear, experience-based comparison written for patients based on what I actually use, what I don’t, and why.

Key Takeaways

  • Biofreeze is useful for quick cooling, lubrication, and clean application, but it’s not a tissue-healing formula.
  • Zheng Gu Shui is a powerful traditional trauma liniment best suited for acute injuries, bruises, and short-term use.
  • Evil Bone Water builds on Zheng Gu Shui by adding herbs that support inflammation control, circulation, and long-term tissue repair.

Video Comparison: Side-by-Side Spray Test

Video: Biofreeze vs Evil Bone Water: Side-by-Side Spray Test & Residue Comparison

https://youtube.com/shorts/o9-y46R47JQ?feature=share

In this video, I spray Biofreeze and Evil Bone Water side by side and let them dry.

What stood out immediately: Biofreeze dried into a crusty, filmy residue, while Evil Bone Water evaporated cleanly with no tacky film

Comparison Chart: Biofreeze vs Zheng Gu Shui vs Evil Bone Water

Feature

Biofreeze Gel

Zheng Gu Shui

Evil Bone Water

Typical Price (3–4 oz)

$11–$15+

$20–$35+

$40–$42+

Active Ingredients

Menthol 4%

Camphor 5.6%, Menthol 5.6%

Natural camphor, natural menthol

Herbal Components

Aloe, arnica, burdock (supporting extracts)

Blood-moving trauma herbs: knotweed, swallowwort, prickly ash, zedoary

Chronic injury & healing herbs: San-Qi, Gui Pi, E Zhu, Bai Zhu, Hu Zhang, Huang Qin, more

Alcohol Base

Yes (isopropyl alcohol)

Yes (alcohol + water)

Yes (high-proof alcohol)

Residue / Sensation

Cooling; can leave a tacky film; won’t stain

Cooling; dries clean; may stain

Warming + cooling; dries clean; may stain

Healing Support

Short-term symptom relief

Traditional support for acute injury

Enhanced support for inflammation & chronic pain

If you’re dealing with lingering pain or an injury that just won’t fully resolve, this is the topical I reach for in my clinic.

Evil Bone Water goes beyond surface cooling and is designed to support circulation, inflammation, and tissue recovery.

Try Evil Bone Water and feel the difference.

Buy Now

How I Use These in Practice

I use Biofreeze and Evil Bone Water in my clinic—but for very different reasons.

Why I Use Biofreeze

Biofreeze is useful because it’s:
  • Affordable in bulk
  • Packaged in durable plastic bottles
  • Clear, non-greasy, and non-staining
  • Fast and consistent
I use Biofreeze when I’m not trying to heal tissue, but when I need:
  • A quick-drying lubricant
  • Light cooling feedback
  • Something patients won’t feel on their clothes
Specifically, I use it:
  • At the end of acupuncture treatments during gua sha
  • During short silicone cupping sessions
  • When comfort and cleanliness matter more than depth
In those moments, Biofreeze does its job.

What I Don’t Like About Biofreeze

I recently ran a simple test in the clinic: Biofreeze on one surface, Evil Bone Water on another, camera rolling, then wait.

What I saw surprised me.

Biofreeze dried into a visible, grimy film.

That matters because:
  • If it leaves residue on surfaces, it’s likely doing the same on skin
  • There are plenty of user reviews mentioning irritation
  • I’m not comfortable with repeated, long-term use of something that leaves a film
So while Biofreeze is a helpful tool, I don’t see it as something that supports long-term healing.

Why I Don’t Use Solstice Zheng Gu Shui in the Clinic

I don’t use the Solstice Med version of Zheng Gu Shui not because the formula is bad historically, but because it doesn’t work for a busy clinic.
My reasons are straightforward:
  • Bottles are too small for high-volume use
  • Added dyes aren’t something I want on skin or clothing
For occasional personal use? Fine.
For consistent clinical work? It doesn’t fit.

Why I Use Evil Bone Water

When I’m actually trying to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and help tissue recover, this is what I reach for.

I use Evil Bone Water when:

  • Pain is persistent or chronic
  • Cheaper sprays helped but plateaued
  • There’s real tissue injury or strain
  • I want more than surface-level cooling

What I Like:

  • High-quality, clinic-grade herbs
  • Natural menthol and camphor
  • A higher-grade alcohol extraction
  • Gentler feel for sensitive skin

What I don’t like:

  • Glass bottle isn’t great for travel
  • It can stain white clothing (usually washes out)
  • Some people dislike the herbal smell
Even with those downsides, I still choose it because healing, not convenience, is the goal.

Ingredient Philosophy

Biofreeze: Modern Pharmaceutical Logic

Biofreeze’s inactive ingredients come from:
  1. Pharmaceutical formulation science (delivery, texture, stability)
  2. Cosmetic dermatology (skin feel, irritation reduction)
  3. Wellness signaling (plant extracts that look natural but aren’t part of a true herbal system)
These ingredients help the product feel good—but they’re not working together as a medicinal formula.

Zheng Gu Shui: Acute Trauma Logic

Zheng Gu Shui is designed to:

  • Move blood aggressively
  • Break stagnation
  • Reduce pain and bruising fast
It’s intentionally strong and simple—ideal for fresh sprains, bruises, and impact injuries, but not built for long-term tissue repair.

Evil Bone Water: Chronic Injury & Repair Logic

Evil Bone Water keeps the trauma-clearing foundation but expands it:

  • Moves blood and controls inflammation
  • Warms channels and relaxes tight tissue
  • Supports tendons, joints, and bone
  • Helps old injuries finally resolve
That shift from “stop pain now” to “help tissue heal” is why it performs differently.

The Bottom Line

  • Biofreeze → quick, clean, affordable, light cooling, functional lubricant
  • Solstice Zheng Gu Shui → traditional formula, but not practical for clinic use
  • Evil Bone Water → when healing, circulation, and long-term pain resolution actually matter

Evil Bone Water

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) is a Chinese topical medicinal hand-crafted with only empirical grade herbal ingredients in an approved facility, by Saint Apothecary
Get Now

Ingredient Lists

Biofreeze — Ingredients

  • Menthol (4%)
  • Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
  • Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract
  • Arnica Montana Flower Extract
  • Blue 1 (synthetic dye)
  • Boswellia Carterii Resin Extract
  • Calendula Officinalis Extract
  • Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
  • Camphor
  • Carbomer
  • Glycerin
  • Ilex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Leaf Extract
  • Isopropyl Alcohol
  • Isopropyl Myristate
  • Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract
  • Silica
  • Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
  • Triethanolamine
  • Water
  • Yellow 5 (synthetic dye)

Zheng Gu Shui — Ingredients

  • Camphor (5.6%)
  • Menthol (5.6%)
  • Alcohol
  • Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) Rhizome
  • Paniculate Swallowwort Root
  • Shin-leaf Prickly Ash Root
  • Zedoary Rhizome
  • Water

Evil Bone Water — Ingredients

  • Zhang Nao (Natural Camphor)
  • Bo He Nao (Natural Menthol)
  • San / Tian Qi (Notoginseng)
  • Gui Pi (Cinnamon Bark)
  • E Zhu (Zedoary Rhizome)
  • Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome)
  • Hu Zhang (Knotweed Rhizome)
  • Bai Niu Dan (Inula cappa)
  • Qian Jin Ba (Flemingia Root)
  • Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root)
  • High-grade alcohol (traditional extraction medium)

Testimonials

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Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What is Zheng Gu Shui used for?
Zheng Gu Shui is a traditional Chinese liniment most commonly used for acute injuries, such as sprains, bruises, contusions, and impact trauma. Its formula strongly moves blood and helps reduce pain and swelling shortly after injury.

They are related but not the same. Evil Bone Water is inspired by Zheng Gu Shui–style formulas but expands on them by adding herbs that:

  • Reduce ongoing inflammation
  • Support tendons, joints, and connective tissue
  • Address chronic or unresolved injuries

Think of Zheng Gu Shui as acute trauma support, and Evil Bone Water as trauma + healing.

Biofreeze relies on menthol as a counter-irritant, which creates a cooling sensation that temporarily interrupts pain signals. Its inactive ingredients are designed for:

  • Texture
  • Fast drying
  • Skin feel
  • Shelf stability

It’s engineered more like a pharmaceutical gel than a medicinal herbal formula.

Biofreeze can mask pain temporarily, but it does not biologically address inflammation or tissue repair in the way herbal formulas are designed to. That’s why I use it as a tool not as a healing strategy.
  • Biofreeze: Does not stain
  • Zheng Gu Shui: Can stain due to dyes and herbal pigments
  • Evil Bone Water: May stain light or white clothing, but typically washes out

I recommend applying herbal liniments before dressing or covering the area if needed.

  • Biofreeze: Generally well tolerated, but some users report irritation with frequent use
  • Zheng Gu Shui: Strong; best for short-term use
  • Evil Bone Water: Uses natural menthol and camphor and is often gentler, but still strong. The natural ingredients makes it safe for many people sensitive skin.

References

Yang, X., Wang, Y., Bai, L., Miao, T., & Wen, X. (2023). Mechanism of action of Baohe pills in improving functional dyspepsia. MEDS Chinese Medicine, 5(7), 48–55. Clausius Scientific Press. https://doi.org/10.23977/medcm.2023.050707

Maideen N. M. P. (2023). Adverse Effects Associated with Long-Term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors. Chonnam medical journal, 59(2), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.4068/cmj.2023.59.2.115

Tu, Y., Luo, X., Liu, D., Li, H., Xia, H., Ma, C., Zhang, D., Yang, Y., Pan, X., Wang, T., Xia, Y., Dan, H., You, P., & Ye, X. (2022). Extracts of Poria cocos improve functional dyspepsia via regulating brain-gut peptides, immunity and repairing of gastrointestinal mucosa. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 95, 153875. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153875

Chen, X. Y., Chen, H. M., Liu, Y. H., Zhang, Z. B., Zheng, Y. F., Su, Z. Q., Zhang, X., Xie, J. H., Liang, Y. Z., Fu, L. D., Lai, X. P., Su, Z. R., & Huang, X. Q. (2016). The gastroprotective effect of pogostone from Pogostemonis Herba against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.), 241(2), 193–204. https://doi.org/10.1177/1535370215600099

Zhen, B. X., Cai, Q., & Li, F. (2023). Chemical components and protective effects of Atractylodes japonica Koidz. ex Kitam against acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer in rats. World journal of gastroenterology, 29(43), 5848–5864. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v29.i43.5848

Lee, H.-A., Yoo, J.-H., Chung, Y., & Kim, O. (2017). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori-induced inflammation in human gastric epithelial AGS cells by the fruits of Tribulus terrestris L. extracts. Journal of Biomedical and Translational Research, 18(3), 121–124. https://doi.org/10.12729/jbtr.2017.18.3.121

Wang, Q., Shen, Z. N., Zhang, S. J., Sun, Y., Zheng, F. J., & Li, Y. H. (2022). Protective effects and mechanism of puerarin targeting PI3K/Akt signal pathway on neurological diseases. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 1022053. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.1022053

Zhao, H., Feng, Y. L., Wang, M., Wang, J. J., Liu, T., & Yu, J. (2022). The Angelica dahurica: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 896637. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.896637

Feng, L., A, L., Li, H., Mu, X., Ta, N., Bai, L., Fu, M., & Chen, Y. (2023). Pharmacological Mechanism of Aucklandiae Radix against Gastric Ulcer Based on Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Experiment. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 59(4), 666. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59040666

Fu, X., Wang, Q., Kuang, H., & Pinghui, J. (2020). Mechanism of Chinese medicinal-medicated leaven for preventing and treating gastrointestinal tract diseases. Digestion, 101(6), 659–666. https://doi.org/10.1159/000493424

Microgard By Botanical BioHacking Close up

Call to action

That’s why, in my clinic, Evil Bone Water is what I use when the goal is healing, not just temporary relief.

It’s built on the traditional Zheng Gu Shui framework, upgraded with higher-grade herbs, natural camphor and menthol, and a formulation designed to support circulation, calm inflammation, and help damaged tissue recover over time.

It’s not the cheapest option

But it’s the one I trust when results actually matter.

If you’re ready to move beyond surface-level relief, try Evil Bone Water the same topical I use in clinical practice

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Microgard

Posted on December 30, 2025 by - Staff

Microgard
  • Verified
14 minutes read

Microgard

Dr. Joshua
Dr. Joshua Park, DSOM, L.Ac

Dr. Joshua Park is a digestive health specialist and among the first in North America to receive a clinical doctorate in Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine. He trained at the National University of Natural Medicine, studying with leading physicians from Korea, China, Europe, and the United States.

DR-Joshua
Microgard

Table of Contents

The Natural Solution for Chronic Indigestion (Functional Dyspepsia)

When your antacids and acid blockers aren’t fixing your chronic indigestion, it’s time for a different approach. Most treatments for upset stomach only target one issue at a time, which is why they often leave you still dealing with bloating, burning, or feeling full too quickly after meals.
Microgard is a comprehensive, all natural herbal formula that draws on the legacy of Bao He Wan, and Po Chai Pills, digestive remedies trusted across Asia for generations. Microgard has proven to be one of the most effective options available for treating functional dyspepsia.
If you’ve never heard the term before, functional dyspepsia is the medical name for chronic indigestion with no clear cause. Functional dyspepsia can present with symptoms such as persistent bloating after eating, early fullness, nausea, or burning discomfort in the upper abdomen that can’t be explained by ulcers or structural disease.
Microgard combines the effects of multiple botanical ingredients to restore balance across the digestive system. It supports enzyme activity, calms inflammation, repairs the gut barrier, improves motility, and regulates the gut-brain axis so that stress and indigestion no longer fuel each other.

What You’ll Learn in This Article

I use this test with patients when the source of their anxiety is unclear. It’s simple but telling:
  • Why functional dyspepsia is so frustrating to treat with conventional medicine
  • How chronic indigestion develops from overlapping digestive, inflammatory, and neurological imbalances
  • How specific herbs in Microgard target each of these mechanisms to restore healthy digestion

What Causes Functional Dyspepsia

Functional dyspepsia is chronic indigestion without ulcers or structural disease. In other words, your stomach isn’t working right, but tests and imaging don’t show anything obvious. Symptoms might feeling full after just a few bites, bloating that lingers for hours, nausea after eating, burning in your upper stomach, acid reflux, and that heavy sensation where food just sits.
What’s actually happening with functional dyspepsia isn’t one single issue, but several overlapping systems breaking down:

Slow Stomach Emptying

Food lingers too long in the stomach instead of moving along normally. This delayed emptying causes bloating and that “stuffed” feeling even from small meals.

Oversensitive Stomach Nerves

Nerves in the stomach overreact to normal signals, turning mild fullness into pain, cramping, or nausea.

Low-Grade Inflammation

Chronic irritation in the stomach lining interferes with normal function and keeps symptoms coming back.

Disrupted Gut-Brain Communication

Stress worsens digestion, and poor digestion amplifies stress, creating a feedback loop where anxiety and stomach upset feed off each other.

Digestive Enzyme Problems

When the body doesn’t produce or release enough digestive enzymes, food breaks down poorly, leading to gas, fermentation, and bloating.

Why Conventional Drugs Fall Short

If you’ve tried the usual treatments for functional dyspepsia (chronic indigestion), you already know they don’t work very well. Here’s why:

Acid Blockers Have Limited Success (And Serious Side Effects)

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec and Nexium are the most common prescriptions, but research shows they only work 7–10% better than placebo. If 30% of people feel better on a sugar pill, only about 37–40% feel better on acid blockers. Long term use of these medications can also come with severe side effects, including nutrient deficiencies, kidney problems, increased risk of stroke or cardiovascular disease, bone fractures, infections, and dementia.

H. pylori Treatment Rarely Helps

Doctors often test for Helicobacter pylori bacteria and prescribe a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (called “Triple Therapy”) to eliminate it. But this only helps 6–14% of functional dyspepsia patients, meaning 85–94% still have symptoms afterward.

Motility Drugs Are Inconsistent

Prokinetic medications that help food move through the stomach can work for some people, but not reliably. Many of the most effective ones, like cisapride, were pulled from the market due to dangerous cardiac side effects.

Antidepressants Come with Heavy Costs

Tricyclic antidepressants are prescribed for functional dyspepsia when other treatments fail. Although some studies have shown they may help up to 64–70% of patients, their side effects, which can include sedation, dry mouth, weight gain, constipation, heart problems, anxiety and sexual dysfunction, make them difficult to tolerate long-term.

Single-Target Treatments for a Multi-System Problem

Functional dyspepsia is caused by overlapping dysfunctions: delayed gastric emptying, inflammation, nerve hypersensitivity, enzyme issues, and gut-brain disruption. Conventional drugs only address one piece at a time, leaving the rest untouched which is why so many patients stay stuck with symptoms.

How Microgard Works For Chronic Indigestion (Functional Dyspepsia)

Microgard addresses functional dyspepsia (chronic indigestion) by restoring function across digestion, inflammation, barrier integrity, motility signaling, and the gut–brain axis.

Direct Stomach Protection

  • Fu Ling (poria): Supports repair of the gastric mucosa and balances immune signaling (Th1/Th2, Th17/Treg) through TLR and JNK pathways. Improves gut–brain peptide regulation, helping calm inflammation and reduce hypersensitivity in functional dyspepsia. Calms the low-grade inflammation that keeps the stomach lining reactive.
  • Huo Xiang (pogostemon): Active compound pogostone protects the gastric lining by enhancing antioxidant defenses, boosting protective prostaglandin E2, and preventing cell death. This reduces burning or nausea from irritated mucosa.
  • Cang Zhu (atractylodes lancea): Reduces TNF-α/NO activity and promotes protective mucins. Fortifies the gut wall against irritation and bloating triggers.
  • Bai Ji Li (tribulus): Inhibits NF-κB/iNOS-NO pathways involved in chronic irritation, has been shown to be mucosal protective with anti-H. pylori activity.

Gastric Motility Enhancement

  • Ge Gen (pueraria root): Modulates PI3K-Akt–linked metabolism and smooth muscle tone. This reduces cramping and tension in the abdomen and digestive tract after eating.
  • Bai Zhi (angelica dahurica): Reduces NF-κB/COX-2/iNOS signaling and inflammatory pain, easing inflammation and smooth-muscle tension that disrupts motility and produces burning discomfort in the stomach.
  • Mu Xiang (aucklandia): Sesquiterpene lactones with demonstrated gastroprotection; also eases spasm. Shields the stomach mucosa and reduces that tight, crampy “stuck” feeling.

Digestive Enzyme Support

  • Shen Qu (medicated fermented mass): Fermented preparation supplying enzymes, B-vitamins, and beneficial microbes. Supports digestion of carbohydrates, promotes gastric secretions, and helps balance gut flora while reducing inflammation. Eases that swollen, slow, after-meal feel.
  • Shan Zha (hawthorn fruit): Classically used for for “food stagnation,” especially fats and proteins; modern data supports lipid-metabolism benefits. Helps heavy meals clear without the brick-in-the-stomach sensation.
  • Gu Ya (germinated barley): Broad enzyme spectrum and prebiotic fibers aid digestion. This helps reduce heaviness, gas, and post-meal bloating.

Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms

  • Yi Yi Ren (coix seed): Supports intestinal barrier integrity and mucosal repair while moderating inflammatory cascades. Reduces “leaky gut”, leading to fewer flare ups of symptoms.
  • Tian Hua Fen (trichosanthes): Anti-inflammatory and immune support; traditionally “heat-clearing.” Helpful when the system runs “hot” and irritable.
  • Hua Ju Hong (exocarpium citri grandis): Flavonoid-rich antioxidant activity helps soothe upper-GI oxidative irritation that can stall digestion.
  • Bo He (mentha): Menthol-rich volatile oils are anti-inflammatory and induce smooth-muscle relaxation to ease digestive reactivity and gas. Comforts “hot,” irritated digestion.

Gut–Brain Axis Modulation

  • Gou Teng (uncaria): Serotonergic/neuromodulatory effects with anxiolytic properties. In other words, it soothes stress, calming the gut-brain axis and reducing flare ups of functional dyspepsia.
  • Shi Chang Pu (acorus): Reduces neuroinflammation and improves gut–brain signaling. This makes stomach sensations feel normal again instead of painful.
Microgard

Microgard

Microgard, an imperial grade herbal formula from Botanical Biohacking, is expertly crafted to enhance digestive health and balance. Microgard gently stimulates gastric motility, aiding in smoother intestinal movement and elimination. This synergistic action restores the diversity of the gastrointestinal microbiome and decreases the prevalence of biofilm.
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Why Microgard Is Different

Most treatments for chronic indigestion (functional dyspepsia) work like using a single wrench on an entire engine. They might tighten one bolt, but they leave the rest of the system broken.

Multi-System Approach

Microgard works through enzyme support, inflammation, barrier repair, gut-brain signaling, and mucosal protection so you're not left with half your symptoms still bothering you.

Built on Proven Formulas

Microgard evolved from Bao He Wan and Po Chai Pills, trusted for centuries. The difference is that Microgard has been refined for functional dyspepsia using modern biomedical insight.

Gentler Than Pharmaceuticals

Prescription drugs often bring side effects like nutrient deficiencies, infection risk, and heart complications. Herbs in Microgard have centuries of safe use. You get broad relief without the side effect burden.

Addresses What Drugs Miss

Conventional meds don’t provide digestive enzymes, regulate the gut-brain axis, and hit multiple inflammatory pathways at once. Microgard does, by working with your body's natural systems instead of overriding them.

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Dr. Joshua
Dr. Joshua Park, DSOM, L.Ac
Dr. Joshua Park is a digestive health specialist and among the first in North America to receive a clinical doctorate in Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine. He trained at the National University of Natural Medicine, studying with leading physicians from Korea, China, Europe, and the United States.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What is Microgard?
Microgard is a 16-herb formula evolved from the traditional digestive remedies Bao He Wan and Po Chai Pills, refined for functional dyspepsia (chronic indigestion). It addresses multiple causes of persistent upset stomach at the same time, from poor motility to inflammation and gut-brain signaling.
Take 8–25 micro pills, 2–3 times daily, or follow your healthcare practitioner’s instructions. Because these are micro pills — much smaller than standard capsules or tablets — the dosage may sound high, but the tiny size makes them easy to swallow and adjust to your needs.
Each bottle contains 18 g of traditional micro pills. Since there are no preservatives, keep the bottle in a cool, dry place and refrigerate after opening. For best results, finish the bottle as soon as possible once opened.
If you eat a Standard American Diet, have chronic indigestion (functional dyspepsia) or other digestive symptoms, and have signs of gut dysbiosis like a thick tongue coating, Microgard is likely a good formula for you. If you are unsure about Microgard, contact a TCM professional (licensed acupuncturist) who can determine if it’s the best fit.
Yes. Microgard contains no additives or preservatives, only the 16 traditional herbs. Ingredients are sourced from authentic growing regions, verified by TCM botanical experts, and tested for purity, heavy metals, and pesticide residues at a Chinese FDA-certified lab.
Microgard is not suitable during pregnancy, or for people with Celiac Disease. Consult your healthcare practitioner if you are nursing or taking medications.
Many people notice reduced bloating and post-meal heaviness within 1–2 weeks. More complete resolution of functional dyspepsia symptoms develops over several months as digestive function rebalances.
Most digestive aids only target one problem acid blockers reduce acid, enzymes help with breakdown, probiotics support gut bacteria. Microgard does all three plus more: improving motility, calming inflammation, protecting the stomach lining, and regulating the gut-brain axis. That’s why it’s uniquely effective for complex conditions like functional dyspepsia.
Microgard is manufactured by Botanical Biohacking, using time-honored herbal methods combined with modern GMP-certified quality testing to ensure safety and potency.

References

Yang, X., Wang, Y., Bai, L., Miao, T., & Wen, X. (2023). Mechanism of action of Baohe pills in improving functional dyspepsia. MEDS Chinese Medicine, 5(7), 48–55. Clausius Scientific Press. https://doi.org/10.23977/medcm.2023.050707

Maideen N. M. P. (2023). Adverse Effects Associated with Long-Term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors. Chonnam medical journal, 59(2), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.4068/cmj.2023.59.2.115

Tu, Y., Luo, X., Liu, D., Li, H., Xia, H., Ma, C., Zhang, D., Yang, Y., Pan, X., Wang, T., Xia, Y., Dan, H., You, P., & Ye, X. (2022). Extracts of Poria cocos improve functional dyspepsia via regulating brain-gut peptides, immunity and repairing of gastrointestinal mucosa. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 95, 153875. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153875

Chen, X. Y., Chen, H. M., Liu, Y. H., Zhang, Z. B., Zheng, Y. F., Su, Z. Q., Zhang, X., Xie, J. H., Liang, Y. Z., Fu, L. D., Lai, X. P., Su, Z. R., & Huang, X. Q. (2016). The gastroprotective effect of pogostone from Pogostemonis Herba against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.), 241(2), 193–204. https://doi.org/10.1177/1535370215600099

Zhen, B. X., Cai, Q., & Li, F. (2023). Chemical components and protective effects of Atractylodes japonica Koidz. ex Kitam against acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer in rats. World journal of gastroenterology, 29(43), 5848–5864. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v29.i43.5848

Lee, H.-A., Yoo, J.-H., Chung, Y., & Kim, O. (2017). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori-induced inflammation in human gastric epithelial AGS cells by the fruits of Tribulus terrestris L. extracts. Journal of Biomedical and Translational Research, 18(3), 121–124. https://doi.org/10.12729/jbtr.2017.18.3.121

Wang, Q., Shen, Z. N., Zhang, S. J., Sun, Y., Zheng, F. J., & Li, Y. H. (2022). Protective effects and mechanism of puerarin targeting PI3K/Akt signal pathway on neurological diseases. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 1022053. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.1022053

Zhao, H., Feng, Y. L., Wang, M., Wang, J. J., Liu, T., & Yu, J. (2022). The Angelica dahurica: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 896637. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.896637

Feng, L., A, L., Li, H., Mu, X., Ta, N., Bai, L., Fu, M., & Chen, Y. (2023). Pharmacological Mechanism of Aucklandiae Radix against Gastric Ulcer Based on Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Experiment. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 59(4), 666. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59040666

Fu, X., Wang, Q., Kuang, H., & Pinghui, J. (2020). Mechanism of Chinese medicinal-medicated leaven for preventing and treating gastrointestinal tract diseases. Digestion, 101(6), 659–666. https://doi.org/10.1159/000493424

Microgard By Botanical BioHacking Close up

The Bottom Line on Microgard

If you’re ready to stop living with bloating, burning, and meals that leave you feeling weighed down, now is the perfect time to make a change. Microgard delivers comprehensive support for functional dyspepsia and chronic indigestion by addressing every system involved: inflammation, barrier repair, motility, and the gut-brain connection.

Don’t settle for band-aid solutions that only mask symptoms. Order Microgard today and take the first
step toward eating comfortably, restoring balance, and feeling like yourself again.

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Gut Brain Axis Test

Posted on December 24, 2025 by - Staff

  • Verified
11 minutes read

Gut Brain Axis Test

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Table of Contents

Is Your Anxiety Starting in Your Gut or Your Brain?

Your gut and brain talk to each other all day long. That conversation isn’t just metaphorical the gastrointestinal tract is extremely sensitive to emotion, and a troubled intestine can send stress signals to the brain just as a troubled brain can upset your stomach.
In clinic I see this connection daily. Recently a patient came in complaining of post‑traumatic stress, anxiety and high cortisol. My evaluation showed no obvious endocrine imbalance, so I asked a simple question: “When do you feel anxious?” He admitted that at home, in his “happy place,” he felt calm. The anxiety only hit when he went out in public.
That little conversation is the backbone of what I call the Gut Brain Axis Test. It’s a quick way to tell whether your anxiety is coming upward from the gut or downward from the mind. Understanding the direction of those signals changes how we treat the problem and it brings a whole new appreciation for the complex, bidirectional relationship between digestion and mood.

What Is the Gut Brain Axis?

Scientists have discovered that we have a “second brain” inside our gut. The enteric nervous system (ENS) is made up of more than 100 million nerve cells that line the digestive tract . In fact, there are more nerve cells in your gut than anywhere else in your body outside of your brain . This neural network controls digestion and sends constant feedback to the central nervous system via the vagus nerve . Because of this wiring, the gut and brain are in continuous conversation: hunger, fullness, nausea and the urge to use the bathroom are all messages from your gut . The brain responds by adjusting motility, enzyme release and blood flow .
This connection works the other way, too. Stressful thoughts or strong emotions can trigger butterflies, cramping or indigestion. Psychology influences the actual physiology of the GI tract: stress and depression alter the movement and contractions of the gut .
Irritation inside the digestive system may in turn send signals to the central nervous system that trigger mood changes . That’s why people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional gut disorders have higher rates of anxiety and depression .
In Chinese medicine we recognized these patterns millennia ago: the Spleen and Stomach govern rumination and worry, while the Liver affects irritability and tension.
Modern science also shows that this axis involves endocrine, immune and metabolic pathways . The gut produces neurotransmitters and hormones; around 95 % of the body’s serotonin the chemical that regulates mood, appetite and sleep is made in the intestinal lining .
The gut microbiome (trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi that live in our intestines) produces metabolites and neurotransmitters that influence brain function . Imbalanced gut bacteria have been linked to depression, anxiety and even developmental disorders . Because of this network, disturbances in one system can create symptoms in the other.

The Gut Brain Axis Test

I use this test with patients when the source of their anxiety is unclear. It’s simple but telling:
  • Notice where you are when symptoms appear. Do you feel anxious when you’re at home in your safe space, or only in certain situations? Are you calm at rest but agitated after meals? Or do your symptoms only arise when you leave the house?
  • Look for external triggers. Are there obvious stressors deadlines, crowds, loud noises that spark your symptoms? Or do you feel edgy for no apparent reason?
  • Compare top‑down vs. bottom‑up patterns.
  • Bottom‑up: If you’re calm in your mind but still feel anxiety, irritability or sadness, your digestive tract may be sending distress signals to the brain. This pattern shows up when people are in their happy place but still feel off. Irritation in the GI tract can trigger mood changes and alter stress responses.
  • Top‑down: If your anxiety only appears in stressful situations (public places, work deadlines, social settings), your mind is sending signals down to the gut. This top‑down pattern causes stomach pain, bloating or diarrhea during stress. It’s associated with PTSD, social anxiety or ongoing worry. Stress can make the gut more sensitive to pain and change gut motility .

Know Which Direction to Treatment The Gut Brain Axis

When the mind is calm but the gut is unhappy, focusing on fixing digestion often calms the brain.
Research shows that changes in gut bacteria can affect mood, cognition, and the stress response through gut-to-brain signaling, including the vagus nerve.
Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and inflammatory patterns correlate with anxiety and irritability. Supporting gut health with diet, herbs, and probiotics can reduce anxious signaling at its source.

Gut Harmony

Restore digestive balance with Gut Harmony, a comprehensive 16-herb formula crafted to reduce bloating, improve gut motility, and support a healthy microbiome.
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When anxiety is clearly triggered by thoughts or environment, the focus shifts to calming the nervous system. Mind‑body practices (breath work, meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy) have been shown to improve IBS symptoms . Acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can tone the vagus nerve, modulate cortisol and ease tension. Treating the mind often relieves digestive symptoms in these cases.

Gut Brain Axis Research Shows

Modern literature is exploding with studies on the gut–brain axis. A few highlights:

The gut-brain connection

Pay attention to your gut-brain connection – it may contribute to your anxiety and digestion problems

The Gut-Brain Axis

Influence of Microbiota on Mood and Mental Health...

Partial destabilization of native structure

by a combination of heat and denaturant facilitates cold denaturation in a hyperthermophile protein...

The Brain-Gut Connection

If you’ve ever “gone with your gut” to make a decision or felt...

Gut Harmony

Restore digestive balance with Gut Harmony, a comprehensive 16-herb formula crafted to reduce bloating, improve gut motility, and support a healthy microbiome.

Share on

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

Common Questions About the Gut Brain Axis
How do I know if my anxiety is from my gut?
If you notice mood swings, irritability or anxiety when life is calm, look for digestive clues: bloating, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn or food sensitivities. Research shows the gut can send signals to the brain that trigger emotional changes . Keeping a food and symptom diary, getting a stool analysis to assess your microbiome and working with a practitioner to address inflammation can help you determine if your gut is the culprit.
There isn’t a single lab panel that measures this connection. Clinicians use a combination of history, stool tests (to look at microbiome diversity and pathogens), breath tests (to assess SIBO), inflammatory markers, cortisol and vagal tone assessments. The simple thought experiment described above is a useful mental check. Ultimately, treating the gut or calming the mind or both is more effective than relying on a single “test.”
A high‑fiber, plant‑rich diet promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria . Whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables feed your microbiome and encourage production of neurotransmitters. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi provide natural probiotics . Limiting refined sugars, alcohol and processed fats reduces inflammation. In Chinese medicine, warming, cooked foods like soups and porridges nourish the Spleen and calm the mind.
Probiotics are live bacteria that can help rebalance the microbiome. Small clinical trials have shown that taking specific probiotics for six weeks can improve both IBS and anxiety symptoms . Prebiotics nondigestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria have also been shown to reduce cortisol levels . Not all probiotics are the same, so work with a practitioner to choose strains appropriate for your condition.
Yes. Diet directly alters the composition of your microbiome . Eating a diverse array of fiber‑rich foods increases short‑chain fatty acids, which support gut lining integrity and have anti‑inflammatory effects. Processed foods and alcohol can encourage growth of microbes that produce endotoxins, which may cross the gut barrier and affect the brain..

How to Support Your Gut–Brain Harmony

Eat for your microbiome

Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Include plenty of fiber (vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains) and fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut. I am not a fan of yogart, too much sugar and milk.

Limit irritants

Reduce alcohol, sugary drinks, processed seed oils and ultra‑refined carbohydrates. These can disrupt your microbiome and promote inflammation.

Manage stress

Practice deep breathing, meditation and tai chi. These activate the parasympathetic nervous system and calm gut motility. Studies show mind‑body therapies improve IBS symptoms and mood .

Use targeted supplements

Prebiotics (soluble fibers like inulin), probiotics (such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species) The digestive products in this collection are designed to support gut health thoughtfully, safely, and effectively

Get moving

Regular, moderate exercise improves gut transit time and increases microbiome diversity. Here are six simple, low intensity activities for less pain, less risk, and more comfort in your body

Sleep well

The gut microbiome follows circadian rhythms. Poor sleep can disrupt microbial balance and increase cortisol. Establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Seek professional

If you’re ready for support consider joining the Chorus Circle community. This guided support group blends traditional Chinese medicine wisdom with modern neuroscience to help calm the gut, clear the mind, and restore steady energy. Led by experienced herbalists and practitioners, members gain access to free classes, practical gut–brain education, Synchrony Training using EEG and HRV, mindful practices, and botanical support so you can feel lighter, clearer, and more at ease as you rebuild balance from gut to brain and brain to gut.

Start Healing Your Gut Today

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What You Need To Know About Treating Meniere’s Disease

Posted on March 21, 2025 by - Meniere's Disease, Staff

Person Ear with Meniere's Disease

What You Need To Know About Treating Meniere's Disease

What is Meniere’s disease and how is it treated?

Learn how Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches Meniere’s Disease. Explore how imbalances like Dampness, Heat, and Stagnation can contribute to your symptoms and how specific lifestyle changes and TCM treatments may offer relief. This will help you better understand your treatment’s rationale and how to better help yourself.

About Us
Three Types of Meniere's Disease
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What you will learn about Meniere's Disease

How imbalances like Dampness, Heat, and Stagnation contribute to symptoms. How common comorbidities can aggravate your symptoms.  How Traditional-based treatments such as herbs, acupuncture, diet, movement, and hydrotherapy help symptoms.

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Understanding Meniere's Disease

The Role of Comorbidities

The Role of Sympathetic Nervous System

The Best Treatments for Meniere's Disease

Who Can Help

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Understands Meniere's Disease

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meniere's Disease is categorized as a patterns involving Dampness, Heat, and Stagnation in the upper body. Addressing these patterns can provide effective symptom relief and improved quality of life.

Dampness

Improper fluid movement in the body—whether there’s too much, or it’s not where it should be. 

Dampness reflects the improper movement or accumulation of fluids in the body. In Meniere’s Disease, Dampness often appears as a buildup of fluid in the ear, leading to symptoms like ear fullness and vertigo. However, Dampness can also present in other ways, such as excessive mucus in the nose, watery eyes, swelling (edema), and biofilm buildup where bacteria and viruses can hide and thrive. Other signs of Dampness might include watery stool, and a feeling of heaviness in the body. Dampness is often produced from poor digestion, diet plays a crucial role in managing Meniere’s Disease.

Heat

Inflammation and Vasodilation


Heat in the body corresponds to inflammation and excessive vasodilation, similar to the feeling of being flushed or overheated. This pattern can be especially pronounced in people with autoimmune conditions, where chronic inflammation often creates symptoms like redness, itching, and general discomfort. An overactive histamine response is also a sign of Heat in the body. Medicines that control histamine receptors, such as H1 (used for allergy management) and H3 (for brain inflammation), like betahistine, are commonly prescribed for managing these inflammatory symptoms in Ménière’s disease. Heat may be triggered by allergies, viral attacks, or autoimmune responses, each intensifying inflammation and worsening Meniere’s symptoms.

Stagnation

Lack of Movement. Things are stuck and painful.

Stagnation describes areas of the body where movement is restricted, often resulting in pain, tension, or pressure. Common examples include neck pain, jaw tension, and migraines—all of which are frequently associated with Meniere’s Disease. Stagnation impedes the free movement of  blood and gasses inthe body leading to pressure and pain. This is why some people find relief with therapies that promote movement, such as chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage. These methods work to release areas of Stagnation, restoring movement and relieving pressure, which can help alleviate the symptoms of Meniere’s.

Patterns

They help us understand what is going on and what might make things better

Understanding patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine gives us a powerful framework for treating Meniere’s Disease—not just as an isolated condition, but as part of a larger picture of health.

Meniere’s Disease typically involves a pattern of Dampness, reflected by excessive fluid buildup in the inner ear. This Dampness often arises from underlying Heat, representing inflammation or autoimmune activity within the body. The condition is further aggravated by Stagnation, particularly tension or pain in the neck area, which irritates nerves and disrupts normal blood flow and energy circulation. 

The patterns of Dampness, Heat, and Stagnation also align with common comorbidities such as digestive issues, allergies, and chronic headaches. This means that as we treat the patterns causing these comorbidities, we’re also supporting the body in reducing the frequency and severity of Meniere’s symptoms. In other words, when we treat the whole person, we help the ear heal too.

The Role of Comorbidities

Comorbidities play a significant role in how Meniere's Disease manifests, progresses and how we can treat it. By focusing on these related Conditions such as autoimmune disorders, migraines, and chronic stress, we can can decrease Heat, Dampness, and Stagnation in the body.

Gut Dysbiosis

An imbalance in the gut microbiota, may be a contributing factor in the development and progression of Meniere’s Disease.

Dampness

Addressing the body’s digestive health and fluid machanics can improve Meniere’s outcomes

  • Significant negative correlation between disease duration and microbial diversity, indicating dysbiosis. 
  • Gut microbiota becomes increasingly imbalanced as the disease progresses.
  • Some patients with Ménière’s disease experience gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or constipation during exacerbations, even without pre-existing bowel conditions.
Read Article

Immune Disorders

Autoimmune have a higher prevalence among Meniere’s patients, and these inflammatory responses can intensify symptoms

Heat

Controlling heat and  inflammation  in the body can help manage overactive immune system and improve Meniere’s

  • Roughly one-third of MD cases involve autoimmune components. Commonly associated autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis and thyroiditis. Several theories, including cross-reaction and genetic predisposition, explain the autoimmune link.

  • Allergic reactions are recognized as potential MD triggers, with patients showing symptom improvement after allergy-specific therapies.

  •  Viruses such as cytomegalovirus may also be involved, supported by the presence of viral structures in affected tissues and symptom improvement after antiviral treatments.
Read Article

Neck Pain and Migraines

Symptoms include migraines, neck pain, and jaw tension, which frequently coexist with Meniere’s Disease

Stagnation

Effective treatment of neck pain vestibular migraine can help reduce frequency and severity of Meniere’s episodes

  • Neck pain can trigger or worsen symptoms in Ménière’s disease due to restricted blood flow and nerve irritation from cervical spine issues.

  • Migraines share overlapping mechanisms with Ménière’s disease.

    -Cervical vertigo arises from dysfunction in the neck (cervical spine), causing dizziness and balance issues.

  • Vestibular migraine is characterized by vertigo and dizziness linked directly to migraine episodes.

Read Article

The Role of Sympathetic Nervous System

Understanding stress is crucial in reducing Meniere's episodes

Chronic illnesses frequently involve an overactive sympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the body’s “fight-or-flight” response.

Meniere’s disease is no exception. Research shows that just before a dizzy spell, there is typically a spike in sympathetic nervous system activity.

Both physical and emotional stress can further activate the sympathetic nervous system, making Ménière’s symptoms even more severe.

Read Article

The Best Treatments for Meniere's Disease

Comprehensive treatment plan for Meniers, designed to clear Heat, Dampness, and Stagnation

This protocol uses dietary changes, herbal supplements, and intermittent fasting to reduce Dampness, controlling excess fluid buildup in the ear and improving digestive health.

It incorporates antihistamines and hydrotherapy to manage inflammation Heat, calming autoimmune responses and allergic reactions that worsen symptoms.

To address Stagnation, treatments like acupuncture, self-massage, and gentle stretching are included to improve circulation, relieve neck tension, and alleviate pain.

Finally, breathing exercises and calming patches help balance an Overactive sympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting overall relaxation, essential for long-term relief from Meniere’s episodes.

Back Bai Zhu Balance Bottle with Pills

Bai Zhu Balance

The Bai Zhu Balance herbal formula is specifically designed to help people with Meniere's disease.

Pills

5 Drugs To Treat Meniere's Disease And Natural Alternatives

Learn about what drug options are used to treat meniere's disease.

face massage

Self-Help Therapies for Meniere's Disease

Learn about effective self-help strategies for managing Meniere's disease.

Meniere's Disease Diet

Meniere's Disease Diet: Part One

Is there a link between diet and Meniere's attacks? Learn what is true and what is not.

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Meniere's Disease Diet: Part Two

Learn about what foods to eat, what to avoid and how to eat it.

Hydrotherapy

Saunas vs. Cold Plunges What's Best for Ménière's?

If you've ever wondered whether a sauna or a cold plunge is better for your dizziness

Nose Breathing

Breathing Techniques For Meniere’s Disease

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to manage Meniere’s disease is by focusing on your breathing.

Face Massage

Face Massage for Meniere’s Relief

Discover the benefits of Face massage. Learn how face massage can help relieve Meniere’s disease symptoms.

Ear Massage

Face Massage for Eustachian Tube Relief

Instructions Eustachian Tube Massage. If you’re dealing with ear pressure, blocked ears, or symptoms related to Meniere’s disease.

EAr Muscles

Acupressure Support

Learn targeted pressure points and self massage to help remove stagnation and help manage symptoms

2_Home_Online_Training-AboutUs-Img_2.jpg

Breathing & Movement

Gentle Qigong and stretching routines to enhance circulation and calm the nervous system

IMG_8650

AOYI Patches

Learn how to use Patches to calm the nervous systme and ground the body to help prevent dizzyness.

Who Can Help?

Willard Sheppy

If you’re struggling with vertigo, dizziness, or Meniere’s Disease, you understand how frustrating it can be when your symptoms are misunderstood or dismissed by healthcare providers, leaving you without a clear path to relief.

Willard Sheppy, a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, knows exactly how you feel because he himself lives with Meniere’s Disease and has successfully managed his condition through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle strategies.

With firsthand experience and deep expertise, Will provides personalized care aimed at addressing the underlying causes of vertigo, reducing symptoms, and restoring balance to your life.

Willard Sheppy holds a Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine and is a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine certified by the NCCAOM.

What Is Wind Tea?

Posted on January 29, 2025 by - Healing, Staff

Wind Tea with Glass and Tea Bag

What is Wind Tea?

Wind Tea is a Botanical Biohacking remix of San Ren Tang, formulated by Dr. Jin Zhao, DTCM, and fine-tuned by pharmacology professor Dr. Zhong Shi Hong. The formula combines Xiao Chai Hu Tang + San Ren Tang. It was designed to clear out dampness, which is often the problem with stubborn chronic diseases.

quality you can taste

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Wind Tea Close up with tea Bag and glass of tea

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Now is the perfect time to experience the exceptional quality of Wind Tea for yourself. Each bag is packed with premium sourced herbs—no fillers, no preservatives, Don’t settle for lesser blends order Wind Tea today and feel the difference real quality makes.

Quick Links to the Sections Below

What does Wind Tea help with?

Modern diets, dampness, and mucus are tremendous obstacles in treating chronic illness. Rather than seeing them as barriers, you can see them as your way forward.

Wind Tea is designed to harmonize the body, clear dampness, and support overall wellness.

It addresses modern health challenges like chronic fatigue, digestive imbalance, and respiratory issues.

Wind Tea provides a gentle yet effective solution to restore balance and vitality. 

Wind Tea Ingredients

Herbs From Xiao Chai Hu Tang

  • Bupleurum chinense Radix (Chái Hú)
  • Radix Panax Ginseng (Rén Shēn)
  • Scutellaria baicalensis Radix (Huáng Qín)
  • Rhizome Pinelliae Preparata (Zhì Bàn Xià)
  • Glycyrrhiza uralensis Radix (Gān Cǎo)
  • Zingiber officinale Rhizome (Gān Jiāng)

Herbs From San Ren Tang

  • Semen Armeniacae Dulcis (Xìng Rén)
  • Hua Shi (Huá Shí)
  • Semen Coicis (Yì Yǐ Rén)
  • Herba Lophatheri Gracilis (Dàn Zhú Yè)
  • Fructus Amomi Kravanh (Shā Rén)
  • Medulla Tetrapanacis (Tōng Cǎo)
  • Magnoliae Cortex (Hòu Pò)

Xiao Chai Hu Tang + San Ren Tang

Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Up and Out)

Xiao Chai Hu tang is one of Asia’s safest and most commonly used herbal formulas for acute & chronic upper respiratory infections or reactivating viral syndromes.

This classic Chinese herbal formula is often used to harmonize and resolve early stages of cold/flu “Shaoyang disorders” (alternating chills and fever) and digestive problems Liver and Gallbladder (, bitter taste in the mouth, chest, and hypochondriac discomfort, etc.)

Cold/flu

  • Amongst the most used and
    researched formulas on the planet
  • Immunomodulatory (increases NK cell
    activity)
  • Antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal
  • Anti-allergic

Digestive

  • Improves temperature regulation
  • Hepatoprotective
  • Increases bile secretion
  • Anti-hyperlipidemic
  • Reduces stomach acid
  • Increases peristalsis
  • Protects the stomach lining
Learn More

San Ren Tang (Down and In)

San Ren Tang treats damp-heat conditions with symptoms such as heavy sensations, poor appetite, and fatigue. It focuses on promoting urination, resolving dampness, and clearing heat.

This formula is a gentle addition, which gives wind tea greater ability to access the Lymphatic system where chronic pathogens accumulate and facilitates the reduction of biofilm (a mucus-like substance that harbors chronic infections

Clearing the body of Damp

  • Gently removes dampness; drains it via urination, and the bowels (2-3 days of loose stools is
    normal)
  • Opens the lungs and reestablishes communication between the lungs and kidneys
    (dampness blocking the kidneys)
  • Increases lymphatic flow
  • Reduces water retention

Clearing the Body of Heat

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Analgesic
Learn More

Spinning the Wheel Together

Together, they are the foundation for clearing the body of dampness. Almost everyone will find some benefit in drinking wind tea.

Both formulas are very gentle (chronically ill patients sometimes don’t have a lot of energy;
Giving strong wind-clearing formulas may deplete them.

Both formulas have good track records of safety and essentially a lack of herb-drug
interactions (one exception is Interferon)

Combining Xiao Chai Hu helps things flow up and out. Pushing out illness and moving the Liver and Gallbladder and San Ren, which moisten and drains heat from the lungs, things down and out you gently promote urination and bowel movements.

You create a spinning-the-wheel effect. By grabbing its horizontal axes (xiao chai hu = wood up; san ren = metal down), we will see that complex patterns become clearer. With Wind teas, complex patterns emerge from the milieu everyone with a chronic condition presents. They will also feel better.

A Deeper Look at Wind Tea

Wind Tea is a Botanical Biohacking remix of San Ren Tang, formulated by Dr. Jin Zhao, DTCM, and fine-tuned by pharmacology professor Dr. Zhong Shi Hong. The formula is designed to clear out molecular mimicry, which often clouds diagnosis.
If we examine the (Warm Disease Differentiation) published in 1813 by Wu Zhu Tong, we can gain insights into how it was used historically.

Wu begins by listing examples of signs and symptoms of damp-heat:

“Headache, aversion to cold, heavy body sensation and pain, pale tongue body, while lacking thirst, wiry, thin and soggy pulse, light yellow complexion, chest tightness, lack of appetite, afternoon fever.”

When the appearance of yin deficiency accompanies these symptoms and is difficult to cure quickly, this condition is referred to as damp-heat. Sweating therapies can make the patient dizzy and deaf, sometimes causing them to space out and stare ahead blankly. In severe cases, they may even be unable to speak.

A Closer Look at San Ren Tang

The dizziness described relates to a blockage in the spirit hun. This is an important reminder of the effects of damp-loving pathogens on the central nervous system. In severe cases, spacing out or staring ahead listlessly may occur. It’s essential not to automatically assume such symptoms are due to “depression” or “stress” caused by liver qi stagnation. While this is often the case, external pathogens can also trigger these effects.

San Ren Tang works by addressing fluid management within the body

  1. Hidden Dryness: Beneath the damp exterior lies hidden dryness. When fluids leak out of cells, they flood the extracellular space, leaving the cells parched.
  2. Sweating Risks: Aromatically inducing sweating can injure yin in these parched areas. However, nourishing yin to save these regions creates more dampness, allowing pathogens to penetrate deeper.
  3. Draining Downward: Since excessive warmth cannot lift the Qi without harm, the logical solution is to drain downward.

Quickly inducing bowel movements with stronger formulas may remove dampness but at the expense of other nourishing fluids in the body. This can lead to further dampness due to deficiency and exacerbate dryness in the parched areas, creating mucus—a frustrating catch-22. 

How We Adapted the Formula with Xiao Chai Hu for extended use

Although highly effective, San Ren Tang is not a universal solution. It is unsuitable for long-term use as it may eventually deplete the body. 

How We Adapted the Formula for extended us is by adding Xiao Chai Hu.

Dr. Jin enhanced the formula’s versatility by incorporating Xiao Chai Hu Tang, a Shang Han Lun classic, to help the Shaoyang govern the body. To strengthen the formula and prevent depletion, Dr. Zhong of the pharmacology team added super-grade white ginseng to Wind Tea. This addition further enhances the formula’s function while preserving energy.

Highlights of our Wind Tea

1. Unlike most of the Xiao Chai Hu Tang on the market using Dang Shen to reduce the costs, we follow the original formulation and use high-quality Ren Shen (ginseng).

2. Chai Hu is sustainably wildcrafted from the Tibetan plateau.

3. This product is additive and preservative-free. It’s important to store it in a cool and dry place. If the vacuum seal is broken, do not use it. Keep refrigerated after opening.

Close up of wind tea with grass background

Freqently Ask Questions

Even though San Ren Tang is a pretty balanced formula, it's not recommended for pregnancy. Yi Yi Ren is cold and may cause uterus contract in very high doses in mice (though no report showing it affecting humans). If it's needed, don't take for long-term or high dose.

A high dose of Ginseng in Xiao Chai Chu Tang might reduce milk production.

.

Wind tea is one of the better-tasting Chinese herbal formulas, you can really taste the quality of herbs used. With that said, it still taste like Chinese herbs, so if you don’t like herbal tea, try this tip.

Protip: if you brew a bag of Wind tea with a bag of Apple-Cinnamon tea, it doesn't taste like Win tea at all 😂😂😂

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuTo understand fluid metabolism, you need to look at the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital microbiomes. (The upper, middle, and lower jiao.) Life in these three mini worlds depends on aquaporins. Aquaporins (AQP) are integral membrane proteins that serve as channels in the transfer of water and in some cases, small solutes across the membrane.AQP3 is present in the kidney collecting ducts, epidermis, urinary, respiratory, and digestive tracts. When the body is damp, there is increased aquaporins found in urine because they are being damaged. Wind Tea made from xiao chai hu tang and san ren tang regulates aquaporins and reduces the content in urine. 

Most herbal may be taken by individuals who are also using prescription drugs without problems. However, it is recommended that herbal be taken on an empty stomach at least two hours apart from the prescription drugs.
The most common interaction is that herbal medicine increases the effectiveness of prescription medication or duplicates the action.

Most common interaction is with, Antiplatelets, Anticoagulants, antihyperlipidemic

How Do I Make Wind Tea?

Unfortunately, the directions on the bag a not the best way to brew the tea. We have found It is best to brew wind tea all at once, not in individual cups like the instructions say. 

Wind teas has seeds in it. For the teas with seeds, we recommend simmering on the stove for 20 to 30 minutes, to get a complete extraction of the active ingredients

  1. Take the teabag out of the package. For each teabag, you want to use about one to two pints of water.
  2. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes
    After teas have been simmering for about 20-30 minutes
  3. It is ready to drink.

Fancier Option
We have found that cutting open the bags works better for some people. It allows some of the larger plant particles to go into solution. So, you are consuming more of the herbs.

Brew for 20-30 minutes. I will usually have people doing 3-4 teabags per day and consume at least 40 ounces of decocted liquid.

Experience the Power of Wind Tea

Don’t let dampness, sluggish digestion, or lingering fatigue hold you back. Wind Tea is expertly crafted to restore balance, clear heat, and support overall wellness
Order Today!

About the Author

Author Willard Sheppy Exporing the Coast

Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.

In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.

Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard!