Herbal Medicine
Dr. Theragood incorporates Chinese herbal medicine into her practice when appropriate, prescribing internal herbal formulas to address patterns of imbalance and support the body’s natural capacity for healing. She sources these formulas from established herbal companies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices and prioritize the use of high-quality ingredients, including Golden Flower Chinese Herbs, Plum Flower Herbal Formulas, and Evergreen Herbs.
In addition to prescribing internal formulas, Dr. Theragood handcrafts many of the topical herbal preparations used in her practice. Working with raw herbs—sourced locally whenever possible—she prepares these formulas with careful attention to traditional methods described in classical Chinese medical texts, thoughtfully adapted to contemporary practice.
Herbal medicine is both a clinical discipline and a deeply meaningful part of Dr. Theragood’s work. She approaches the preparation of herbs with profound respect for the beauty, wisdom, and time-honored traditions of this medicine. The opportunity to transform organic matter into medicine by hand, and to offer that medicine in service of a patient’s healing, is one of the great joys of her life and an essential part of her practice.
Mugwort grown by Lehigh Sheppard in Tessa’s Memorial Garden in Glorieta, New Mexico.
THE FIST
Dit Da Jow
“Hit & Fall” Liniment
THE FIST is a potent traditional Chinese herbal liniment formulated to support the healing of traumatic injuries, including bruising, sprains, strains, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal injuries. Its foundation is a classical Chinese herbal formula traditionally used by martial artists, thoughtfully adapted with special modifications.
Containing more than 20 Chinese herbs, the formula draws upon substances traditionally valued for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-supporting properties. Applied topically, THE FIST is intended to help ease pain, encourage healthy circulation, and support the body’s natural healing process following injury.
This particular preparation carries a special history. It was lovingly and meticulously crafted by two National Board-Certified Doctors of Oriental Medicine, Dr. Lara Theragood and her dear friend and colleague, Dr. Jean Loscalzo of RareBird Acupuncture. Together, they prepared the raw herbs according to traditional methods—including the application of heat, grinding, dry-frying, and other time-honored techniques—before allowing the finished liniment to mature.
After nearly 7 years of aging, THE FIST represents not only a traditional herbal medicine, but a labor of patience, craftsmanship, friendship, and devotion to the healing arts.
Available for purchase at North Star Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine.
2 oz - $30
4 oz - $60
Special thanks to Steve Schnurman—accomplished martial artist, graphic artist, and veteran—for creating the distinctive fist graphic featured on the labels. His artistry and personal connection to the martial arts bring an especially meaningful dimension to THE FIST.
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