Although there are over 10,000 herbs used in Chinese medicine, most herbal pharmacies stock around 300 common is classified according to function, energetic temperature, and flavors. Generally speaking, flavors impart function: spicy herbs ascend, disperse, and invigorate; sour herbs descend and astringe; bitter herbs descend, cool, and dry. Sweet herbs ascend and nourish; salty herbs descend and dissolve masses; bland herbs descend promote urination. Parts of plants also work on specific parts of the body: flowers ascend and influence the head. Leaves, peels, and barks act on the body’s surface. Stems and vines affect channels and sinews. Roots reach deep into the body, affecting organs. Shells and minerals sink and calm the mind; while animal-based medicines tend to have strong nourishing functions.

Si Wu Tang, or 'Four Ladies Tea' helps to nourish blood Herbs are rarely taken singly. Rather, they are combined in formulas-some are thousands of years old, while others are created to treat a specific patient. Herbs may be combined to mutually strengthen their effects, or to reduce negative aspects in each other. Formulas can be made as teas, or taken as pre-manufactured pills, powders, or liniments. In conjunction with acupuncture and diet therapy herbs can have a strong, synergistic and beneficial effect on the body.