Kanpo – 漢方
Kanpo is a Japanese word meaning the use of traditional herbal formulas. In Japan herbal formulas have been increasingly popular with both Doctors and public alike, with 148 formulas approved by the Food and Drug Administration .
The formulas used in Kanpo derive largely from the early historical period of Chinese medicine and thus are thought to have stood the test of time in terms of safety and effectiveness. All the formulas that we use are from this historical period, first written about in a book called the Shanghan lun , approximately 200 C.E. We avoid the use of modern formulas or formulas containing animal products or endangered species.
The herbs can be taken as a stand alone or alongside acupuncture or massage treatment.
For initial consultations are allow up to 60 minutes if acupuncture is also used or 45 minutes for herbs only. Follow up sessions last around 30 minutes (longer if combined with acupuncture or bodywork). Formulas are sometimes mixed at the time of treatment but in some cases are ordered and posted the following day. We use both granules to which boiled water is added [a bit like instant coffee] and also dried bulk herbs either in their normal form or powdered form, which require boiling for 30 – 45 minutes.
Costs:
Consultation £30 [First session £45]
Herbs: granules £18-25 per week, bulk herbs will vary depending on formulas.