What Chinese herbal medicine is
Chinese herbal medicine is the internal side of Chinese medicine. Acupuncture adjusts the body from the outside during a visit. A custom formula works from the inside, every day, between visits. Classical formulas combine several herbs, each with a defined role, and have been refined over centuries of clinical use.
What herbs are commonly used for
- Irregular or painful periods, PMS, perimenopause and menopause
- Preparing for conception in the months before trying or before IVF
- Bloating, IBS, reflux and sluggish digestion
- Trouble sleeping and an anxious, overworked mind
- Seasonal allergies, frequent colds and slow recovery after illness
- Low energy and fatigue
How your formula is made
Dr. Iskhakov starts from a proven classical formula that matches your pattern, then adjusts the herbs and doses for you. Formulas are prescribed as concentrated granules you stir into warm water, or as capsules. At each visit your symptoms, tongue and pulse are rechecked and the formula is changed as you improve.
Quality and safety
- Herbs come from GMP-certified suppliers that test every batch for heavy metals, pesticides and microbes.
- Every formula is checked against your prescriptions and supplements for interactions.
- No endangered animal products or toxic minerals are used.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, in an IVF cycle or on blood thinners, herbs are prescribed only in coordination with your doctor, or not at all.
How long do I take herbs?
Short problems such as a cold may need a few days. Menstrual and digestive patterns are usually treated for two to three months, with the formula adjusted every two to four weeks.
Cost and insurance
Chinese herbal medicine starts at $45 (custom formula, about two weeks' supply). Follow-up acupuncture is $140 for about 60 minutes, with cupping or electroacupuncture included when needed, and packages lower the per-visit cost. We are an out-of-network provider: you pay at each visit and receive a superbill to submit to your insurer, and many PPO plans reimburse part of the fee. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See every fee on pricing & insurance.
When to see a doctor first
Herbs are medicine. Do not start, stop or combine herbs with prescription drugs without telling both us and your doctor. Stop and call us if you notice a rash, stomach upset or any unusual symptom.
Getting to our Midtown office
Herbal consultations are part of acupuncture visits at our office on West 45th Street, near Bryant Park and Grand Central. Follow-up refills can often be arranged by phone.
Fifth Element Acupuncture, 25 W 45th St, Suite 507, New York, NY 10036 · (347) 596-0931 · Directions
B, D, F, M to 42 St–Bryant Park · 7 to 5 Av · 4, 5, 6, S and Metro-North at Grand Central (6-min walk) · Times Sq–42 St (8-min walk)
How to book
Answer a few short questions online and we will call within one business day to confirm a time, or call (347) 596-0931. New patients start with a 90-minute first visit. Evening and Saturday appointments are available, and care is offered in English and Russian.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine complement, and do not replace, care from your physician. Results vary from person to person. Please continue any treatment your doctor has prescribed and tell us about medications you take. Photos are illustrative.
