Traditional Chinese herbal medicine uses over 450 substances that come from plant, animal and mineral sources.  You may find some in your kitchen, such as ginger, garlic and cinnamon, while others such as chrysanthemum and peony flowers, are more likely to be found in your garden.  These substances have been used in ancient times to establish the use of herbal formulas that are used to address health issues. Most Chinese herbal medicine requires a prescription from a licensed Chinese herbal practitioner.