In China, and other parts of Asia, herbal medicine is considered a primary therapeutic modality of internal medicine. Of the approximately 500 herbs that are in use today, 250 or so are very commonly used. Rather than being prescribed individually, single herbs are often combined into formulas that are designed to adapt to the specific needs of individual patients. An herbal formula can contain anywhere from 2 to 20 herbs. In addition, minerals and occasionally, animal products are used in formulas depending on the illness or injury being treated. Though there are patented medicines that can be used for short term, most herbal prescriptions are tailored specifically for the individual patient.

Eastern Herbal Medicine uses plants, mineral, and a few animal products to address a patient's individual complaints or illness. By combining herbs with various properties and actions a doctor can address both the cause of a patient's illness and also address the symptoms that have arisen. This allows not only for the treatment of the current problem, but also lays stabilizes the foundation of health to prevent reoccurance. Though there are many substances used in both Eastern and Western Herbal medicine, the diagnostic approach and preparations are often different.

Dietary recommendations are usually made according to the patient's individual condition in relation to Oriental Medicine Theories of the five phases, and balancing yin and yang. This is an important part of medicine that is often neglected, but serves as the foundation of treatment for both current symptoms, but more importantly prevention.