There are many things said about TCM — some true, some false. Here are five of the most common myths, clarified.

Myth 1: TCM is slow. Many people think TCM only treats chronic conditions and can’t handle acute problems. This is false. At the beginning of a cold, during a fever, after a sudden sprain, during a bad period cramp — one dose of herbs or one acupuncture session can work quickly. The “slow” part is the long-term adjustment after the acute problem is solved. Treatment can be fast. Regulation takes time.

Myth 2: Herbs have no side effects. “Herbs are natural, so they have no side effects” — this is a dangerous statement. Natural does not mean safe. Poisonous mushrooms are also natural. Every medicine has its risks, including herbs. Used correctly, a toxin becomes medicine. Used incorrectly, medicine becomes poison. Don’t self-prescribe. See a trained professional.

Myth 3: TCM isn’t scientific, so it doesn’t work. We discussed this earlier. Science is not the only standard for measuring something’s usefulness. Math isn’t science, but it works. TCM’s theoretical framework is different. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. Thousands of years and hundreds of millions of people experiencing real results — that’s a different kind of evidence.

Myth 4: You don’t need to tell your TCM practitioner about your Western medications. This is dangerous. Herbs and drugs can interact. Some herbs make drugs stronger. Some herbs make drugs weaker. Always tell your TCM practitioner every medication you’re taking. And tell your Western doctor about your herbs. Both doctors need to know what the other is doing.

Myth 5: All TCM practitioners are the same. No. There’s a wide range of skill and experience among TCM practitioners. A good practitioner studies for many years and treats many patients before truly mastering the system. When looking for a practitioner, check their credentials, experience, and reputation. A bad practitioner doesn’t mean TCM is bad. Just like a bad Western doctor doesn’t mean Western medicine is bad.

TCM isn’t perfect. But it’s not fraudulent. Remove the myths. Remove the prejudices. What’s left is a medical system that has been used for over a thousand years and has helped many people. You can try it. Let your own body be the judge.