Telling Your Doctor About TCM Use: A Practical Guide

Why tell them

Your doctor can only keep you safe if they know everything you use. NCCIH says that when patients tell their providers about complementary practices, they can better stay in control and manage their health. [1] Some complementary approaches can have an effect on conventional medicine, so your provider needs to know. [1] This page is information only.

What to include

Do not leave out anything because it seems small. NCCIH suggests listing everything you use, from acupuncture to zinc. [1] For Chinese medicine, that means:

• Herbal formulas, teas, patent medicines, granules and tinctures, and what the label says
• Supplements and vitamins
• Acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, tui na or other treatments
• Prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take

Bring a written list of everything you take, how often, and the amounts. [2] Bring the product packaging or take photos of the labels if you can.

How to start the conversation

NCCIH gives four tips. List your complementary practices on the patient history form. Tell providers at each visit, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines and dietary and herbal supplements. Ask questions when you are considering something new. Do not wait to be asked. [1]

Some phrases you can use:

• "I am seeing a Chinese medicine practitioner. I would like to tell you what I take so we can check it together."


• "Here is my list. Could any of it interact with my medicines?"


• "I am thinking about starting an herbal formula. What should I check first?"


• "Please tell me what I should watch for."

Your doctor may not know much about TCM. That is common. You can still ask them to look at the ingredients and your medicines and test results.

Before surgery or when starting cancer treatment

Tell the surgical and anesthesia team and your cancer team about every herb and supplement. See Chinese herbs before and after surgery and Chinese herbs during cancer treatment.

Keeping care coordinated

For safe, coordinated care, all the professionals involved should communicate and cooperate. [5] Ask your TCM practitioner whether they will speak with your doctor, and with your permission share what each has recommended. The integrative approach is covered in integrative Chinese medicine.

Never stop a prescribed medicine without first talking to your doctor. [3] Do not use TCM to replace or delay conventional care. [4]

If a doctor reacts negatively

Some people worry about being judged. Explain that you want a full picture to be safe. If you feel dismissed, you can ask a pharmacist, or ask your doctor for a second opinion.