Traditional Chinese Herbs & Evidence-Based Supplements in Los Angeles
Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Science
Written by Shaun Menashe, LAc, MTOM, Dipl. — Licensed California Acupuncturist and Founder of Golden Mean Acupuncture. Practicing since 2014.
Herbal medicine and targeted supplementation are powerful allies in the healing journey. At Golden Mean Acupuncture, treatments combine time-tested Chinese herbal formulas with modern nutritional science, offering patients the best of both worlds to support lasting wellness.
The Golden Mean Philosophy: Food First, Always
Before recommending any herb or supplement, the starting point is always real food. Daily meals built on whole vegetables, quality proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods form the foundation of genuine health.
Herbs and supplements are not replacements; they are reinforcements. This is why Golden Mean typically establishes a baseline response with acupuncture first, using herbs and supplements selectively when dietary changes need an extra boost.
The Clinical Approach
One Variable at a TimeHerbal and supplement recommendations typically begin after completing an initial course of acupuncture treatment, usually four to six sessions.
This reflects a core clinical philosophy: when multiple interventions start simultaneously, it becomes difficult to know what is actually working. By establishing a baseline response to acupuncture first, both practitioner and patient gain clarity about what additional support is truly needed.
This methodology also respects the financial reality of care. By waiting until the clinical picture is clear, recommendations become targeted and purposeful, ensuring patients invest only in what will meaningfully benefit their health.
What Herbs and Supplements Can Help With
Chinese Herbal MedicineChinese herbal formulas combine multiple herbs that work synergistically, creating balanced effects while minimizing side effects. Research continues to validate traditional uses including antiviral and immune-modulating properties (Luo et al., 2022).
Herbal formulas are used for:
Immune Defense: Combat colds and respiratory infections
Acute Pain Relief: Topical preparations for fast relief
Women's Health: Menstrual irregularities and fertility challenges
Stress & Sleep: Calm tension and restore emotional balance
Recovery from Illness: Support healing and restore vitality
Evidence-Based Supplements
Targeted Nutritional SupportSupplements are recommended only when they address documented deficiencies or provide targeted support.
Despite sunny Los Angeles, vitamin D deficiency is common among patients who work long hours indoors (Aranow, 2011).
Other protocols include:
Omega-3s for Inflammation: Essential fatty acids to balance inflammatory responses
Gut Healing: Targeted nutrients for intestinal repair
Bone Health: Support for skeletal strength and calcium absorption
Cognitive Function: Building blocks for mental clarity and brain health
Quality Standards
Every herb and supplement recommended undergoes third-party testing for purity and potency, verification of proper species identification, and screening for contaminants. Professional-grade matters; generic drugstore vitamins often use poorly absorbed forms and lack quality verification.
Convenient Access Through Fullscript
Golden Mean has partnered with Fullscript, a trusted online pharmacy. Patients receive personalized supplement protocols online with professional-grade products delivered to the door.
Is Herbal Support Right for You?
Herbal or supplement support may benefit those with:Acute illness
Chronic conditions needing additional support
Nutrient deficiencies
Fertility challenges
Gut health issues
Stress-related symptoms
Herbs and supplements are always optional. Many patients achieve outstanding results with acupuncture and dietary improvements alone.
Location
Golden Mean Acupuncture is located near Dodger Stadium in Angelino Heights, serving Echo Park, Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Koreatown, Downtown LA, and East Hollywood.
About Your Practitioner
Herbal and supplement recommendations are provided by Shaun Menashe, LAc, MTOM, Dipl., founder of Golden Mean Acupuncture.
Shaun has been a licensed California acupuncturist since 2014 and holds a Master's degree from Emperor's College of Traditional Oriental Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM).
Ready to Explore Herbal Support?
For those interested in whether herbs or supplements might enhance their care, this can be discussed during any acupuncture visit.
Herbal medicine and supplements are complementary therapies and are not substitutes for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most herbs are safe when used appropriately, but some can interact with pharmaceuticals. We carefully review your complete medication list and choose herbs safe for your situation—or consult with your prescribing physician when needed.
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It depends on what we're treating. Acute conditions (colds, flu) often improve within days. Chronic issues typically require several weeks to months. Herbal medicine works gradually, addressing root causes rather than just suppressing symptoms.
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Absolutely not. Herbs and supplements are optional tools we use only when they'd specifically benefit your condition. Many patients achieve excellent results with acupuncture alone.
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Professional-grade supplements undergo rigorous third-party testing, use bioavailable nutrient forms, and come from research-backed companies. Quality matters—ineffective or contaminated products waste your money and can potentially harm your health. We only recommend what we'd take ourselves.
References:
Aranow, C. (2011). Vitamin D and the immune system. Journal of Investigative Medicine, 59(6), 881-886.
Bishop, E., et al. (2021). Vitamin D and immune regulation: Antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory. JBMR Plus, 5(1), e10405.
Luo, Z., et al. (2022). Research progress on antiviral constituents in traditional Chinese medicines and their mechanisms of action. Pharmaceutical Biology, 60(1), 1074-1085.
Page last updated: February 2026