Herbs   In the course of your treatment Chinese herbal remedies may be prescribed. They may be dispensed as powdered herbs that require dissolving into a tea or in pills, capsules, or tinctures which make them easier to ingest and more convenient. Most herb formulas can treat a wide variety of symptoms while stimulating the body’s natural healing process.   In California, acupuncturists are the only licensed health care professionals who are required to be trained and tested for competency in prescribing herbal medicine. Chinese herbal medicine has been practiced safely and effectively for centuries and has the greatest potential for safe and beneficial results when prescribed by a trained professional who recognizes the benefits and risks.   The California Acupuncture Board strongly recommends consulting an acupuncturist before beginning any herbal therapy. Also, it is very important to inform both your physician and acupuncturist of all the products you are currently taking (drugs, herbs, other supplements) so they can monitor effectiveness, ensure safety from adverse reactions and watch for possible interactions.