Chinese Medicine Matters

In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Mayway President Yvonne Lau and Dr. Skye Sturgeon explore Tian Qi, also known as San Qi or Panax notoginseng, from two different perspectives.

Yvonne begins by sharing the fascinating history, folklore, and legends surrounding the herb's many names. Then, Skye discusses its medicinal properties, including its unique ability to stop bleeding while moving Blood, its applications for traumatic injuries and Blood Stasis, and important considerations for clinical practice.

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How do the TCM concepts of Heat, Lingering Evil Qi, and Latent Heat relate to inflammation and the immune system?

In this newly remastered episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores the distinctions between Lingering Evil Qi and Latent Heat, their roles in chronic health conditions, and how traditional Chinese medicine approaches inflammation. He also discusses the complexities of the immune system and how Chinese herbal medicine can support the body’s natural healing processes.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/heat-and-inflammation

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Lower back pain and sciatica are common complaints in the acupuncture clinic, but how can Master Tung’s Magic Points be used to approach them? In this episode, Susan Johnson, L.Ac., shares her clinical approach to treating lower back pain and sciatica using Master Tung’s acupuncture. Drawing on decades of experience with this powerful system, Susan explores point selections, treatment strategies, and practical insights practitioners can apply in the clinic.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/lower-back-pain-sciatica

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Qi Ye Lian, or Schefflera arboricola, has a long history of traditional use for minor or occasional pain. In this episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores the properties and traditional uses of this versatile single herb, including its applications for acute and chronic pain, injuries, joint and muscle discomfort, and more. He also discusses its phytochemistry, modern research, administration, and important cautions for practitioners to consider.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/qi-ye-lian

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Food allergies and sensitivities can be an important consideration when prescribing Chinese herbal medicine. In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores where common food allergens may appear in Chinese herbs, traditional processing methods, and herbal products. He discusses major allergens including wheat, soy, sesame, and tree nuts, along with gluten concerns, Alpha-gal syndrome, allergen labeling, and the steps Mayway takes to help practitioners identify potential allergens in its products.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/food-allergens-and-chinese-herbal-medicine

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Mayway Vice President Eva Lau joins us with an update on the 2026 fall herb harvest and what Mayway is watching in the herb market. Having grown up in her family’s herb business and now overseeing operations and purchasing at Mayway, Eva shares insights on this year’s unusual weather, changing market conditions, and what they could mean for the herbs practitioners rely on. 

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/herb-market-update-fall-2026

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In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Mayway President Yvonne Lau sits down with Dr. Skye Sturgeon, DAOM, for a candid conversation about aging and longevity. Drawing from Skye’s own experiences and reflections, they discuss independence, staying active and engaged, and the everyday choices that can help support quality of life as we grow older.

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Back-to-school transitions can bring new challenges for children, including belly pain, constipation, nausea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. In this special episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, integrative pediatrician Dr. Jenifer Matthews, MD, and Chinese medicine practitioner Dr. Robyn “Ra” Adcock, DACM, L.Ac., come together to discuss supporting pediatric digestive health. Drawing from their respective clinical backgrounds, they explore how conventional pediatrics and Chinese medicine can complement one another in supporting children’s health.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/back-to-school-belly-pain 

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Exercise-induced asthma can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness during or after physical activity. In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores this condition from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, focusing on the relationship between the Liver and Lung. Through two clinical cases, he discusses Five Element theory and approaches including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and Qigong for supporting young athletes experiencing exercise-induced respiratory symptoms.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/understanding-exercise-induced-asthma-from-a-cm-perspective

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Pediatric ear pain and ear infections are common concerns in clinical practice. In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Raven Lang shares a TCM approach to understanding, assessing, and treating ear pain in children, including Shonishin, Chinese herbal formulas, heat therapy, and simple tools practitioners can share with parents for at-home care.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/pediatric-ear-pain-amp-ear-infections

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Childhood obesity rates have risen dramatically over the past several decades, presenting a growing challenge for families and healthcare providers alike. In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, we explore childhood obesity through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine, examining the roles of constitution, Phlegm pathology, ultra-processed foods, sleep, stress, and lifestyle. The discussion also outlines TCM treatment principles, constitutional patterns, and practical approaches to supporting long-term health in children.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/obesity-in-children-a-modern-understanding-of-cm-treatment-prevention

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What makes chili peppers so fiery, and what role do they play in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

In this episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores the fascinating history, energetic qualities, and medicinal uses of chilies, from their global journey to their place in the TCM materia medica.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/hot-chili-peppers-in-the-blistering-sun

“Hatch Chile Finder”, Stores roasting Hatch Chiles near you https://ihatchchile.com/in/

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In this episode, Mayway President Yvonne Lau reflects on her experience attending the Conference for Wildlife Protection in Traditional Medicine in Hong Kong. She shares highlights from the conference and explores how practitioners, researchers, and organizations are working together to help protect endangered species while preserving the future of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/a-special-tcm-conference-wildlife-conservation

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In this episode, Yvonne Lau takes us inside the Shanghai Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, where ancient artifacts, historic herbal collections, and fascinating exhibits bring thousands of years of Chinese medical history to life. Along the way, she shares the discoveries and reflections that made this museum one of the highlights of her recent trip to China.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/musings-at-the-shanghai-museum-of-tcm

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In this episode, Eva Lau, Vice President of Mayway Herbs, shares highlights from her recent family trip to Japan and the Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas that helped keep everyone healthy while traveling. From crowded trains and changing weather to unforgettable meals and neighborhood Kampo pharmacies, Eva offers practical travel tips, firsthand experiences, and herbal recommendations for staying well on the road.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/traveling-to-japan-with-a-tcm-travel-kit

Nei Jing Tu Explanation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acX1nCrZ2AA

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In this episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores why so many men delay seeking healthcare and how cultural expectations, practical barriers, and long-standing ideas about masculinity can influence health outcomes.

Drawing from research, personal experience, and decades of clinical practice, Skye discusses common reasons men avoid medical care and shares practical strategies for practitioners to build trust, encourage engagement, and better support male patients. He also highlights the unique strengths of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s holistic approach to preventive care, communication, and long-term wellness.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/bi...

What are the “Three Mountains” of men’s health?

In this episode, Yvonne Lau explores benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, and male infertility through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Drawing from a translated interview with Dr. Guo Jun, Director of the Department of Andrology at Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, this episode examines the treatment principles, lifestyle recommendations, and holistic strategies used to support some of the most common men’s health challenges.

Special thanks to Dr. Guo Jun, reporters Gao Qing and Zhao Rui of Life Times, and Xiyuan Hospital for shar...

In this episode, Denise Cicuto shares conversations with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies, exploring the challenges many are facing in today’s political climate and the ways practitioners can offer meaningful support.

Through these reflections and experiences, Denise examines the role of inclusive language, compassionate listening, community care, and affirming healthcare. She also offers practical considerations for practitioners seeking to better support their patients and communities during times of uncertainty.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/how-to-support-the-lgbtqia-community-during-politically-challenging-times

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In this special Pride Month episode, Yvonne Lau and Skye Sturgeon continue their exploration of Yin and Yang by examining one of TCM’s most foundational principles through the lens of diversity, biology, and clinical practice.

Together, they discuss why Yin and Yang are not rigid opposites, how spectrum and variation exist throughout nature and human experience, and why thoughtful, individualized assessment remains central to effective Chinese medicine care.

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In this episode, Janet Borges presents Laura Stropes’ clinical guide to supporting female fertility with prepared Chinese medicines. Exploring the four phases of the menstrual cycle through a TCM lens, Janet discusses treatment principles, hormonal and energetic shifts, and commonly used formulas to support menstruation, ovulation, implantation, and reproductive health.

She also examines how prepared formulas and modular herbal strategies can be used to tailor care, improve patient compliance, and support fertility treatment through each stage of the cycle.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/optimizing-female-fertility-with-prepared-chinese-medicines

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In this episode, Skye Sturgeon explores the TCM pattern known as Cold in the Uterus and its role in gynecological and reproductive health. He discusses how Cold, Yang deficiency, Blood stagnation, and lifestyle factors may contribute to menstrual irregularities, pelvic pain, and fertility challenges.

Skye also examines classical treatment strategies, including acupuncture approaches and herbal formulas such as Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang and Wen Jing Tang, while bridging traditional Chinese medicine theory with modern biomedical perspectives on hormonal balance and reproductive function.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles...

In this episode, Janet Borges explores the clinical applications of Tian Ma Wan and Zhi Bai Di Huang Tang in supporting perimenopause and menopause-related patterns. She discusses common presentations including hot flashes, headaches, dizziness, irritability, sleep disturbances, and Liver Yang rising with underlying Yin and Blood deficiency.

Through both formulas, Janet offers practical insight into pattern differentiation and herbal strategies for supporting patients through hormonal transitions.

Read the articles here:

Tian Ma Teapills - Perimenopausal Formula: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/tian-ma-teapills-good-perimenopausal-formula

Zhi Bai Di Huang Tang for...

In this episode, Denise Cicuto, L.Ac., explores the cognitive and emotional shifts that can arise during perimenopause and menopause through both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine perspectives. She discusses the Heart–Kidney connection, hormonal changes affecting the brain, and common TCM patterns associated with memory, sleep, mood, and concentration. Denise also shares treatment strategies, herbal formulas, nutrition recommendations, and lifestyle approaches to support patients through this major life transition.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/navigating-menopausal-brain-changes

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In this episode, Raven Lang, L.Ac. O.M.D., walks through a striking case of hyperemesis, offering a closer look at how severe pregnancy-related nausea unfolds in real clinical settings. She shares her approach to treatment, including hands-on techniques and acupuncture strategies, while emphasizing the role of integrative care in supporting patient outcomes.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/an-integrated-approach-to-caring-for-patients-with-hyperemesis

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In this episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores the physiology and pathology of Blood in TCM, with a focus on how stagnation develops, how it presents clinically, and why it can lead to serious systemic effects. From characteristic pain patterns and clotting to its role in cardiovascular, immune, and chronic conditions, this conversation offers a deeper look at one of the most important and widely encountered patterns in clinical practice.

You can access the article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/blood-stasis-in-traditional-chinese-medicine

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In the second part of this conversation, Yvonne Lau and Dr. Skye Sturgeon turn to the pathology of Blood in Traditional Chinese Medicine, exploring patterns like Blood deficiency and Blood stasis and how they appear in the body. Along the way, they discuss the broader role of Blood in immunity, neurological function, and clinical practice, offering a thoughtful look at how Eastern and Western perspectives can deepen our understanding of health.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/a-chat-about-blood-pathology-of-blood

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In this first part of a two-part conversation, Yvonne Lau and Dr. Skye Sturgeon explore Blood (Xue) in Traditional Chinese Medicine, one of the concepts that most closely parallels modern physiology. From its relationship with Qi to its vital role in nourishing the body, they unpack how Blood moves, where it comes from, and why it’s central to health.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/a-chat-about-blood-in-tcm

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In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Janet Borges explores nutritional therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, based on an article by Yvonne Lau. From the energetic properties of foods to how diet can support constitution, seasonal balance, and herbal treatment, this episode offers a practical look at how food can be used as part of TCM care.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/nutritional-therapy-in-tcm

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Many skin flare-ups that appear with the changing seasons are assumed to be allergies, but that is not always the case. In this episode, David Heron explores how shifts in temperature, humidity, sunlight, and daily habits can aggravate underlying imbalances and contribute to common conditions such as eczema, urticaria, perioral dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Drawing from both modern dermatology and classical Chinese medicine, this discussion looks at the difference between true allergic reactions and broader seasonal skin reactivity. David also shares how Chinese medicine approaches these patterns with greater clarity, helping practitioners support skin resilience and restore...

In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Yvonne Lau, President of Mayway Herbs, discusses Cang Er Zi (Xanthium sibiricum). Well known in Chinese medicine for opening the nasal passages and dispelling Wind, this humble spiny fruit also carries a rich cultural history.

From ancient materia medica to classical poetry, discover how this herb captured the imagination of scholars, physicians, and poets, and became both a valued medicine and a source of literary inspiration.

You can access the transcript here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/cang-er-zi-a-surprisingly-inspiring-herb

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In Part 2 of this ongoing Chat series, Dr. Skye Sturgeon and Yvonne Lau move from philosophy into clinical application, exploring how Yin and Yang guide diagnosis and treatment in Chinese medicine. They discuss the Eight Principles, organ relationships, and how practitioners assess balance and imbalance in the body.

The conversation also touches on aging, Jing, and the role of attention and lifestyle in maintaining health and harmony.

You can access the transcript here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/a-chat-about-yin-yang-in-tcm

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In Part 1 of this ongoing Chat series, Dr. Skye Sturgeon and Yvonne Lau explore Yin and Yang beyond the familiar symbol. Beginning with the Taiji diagram, they discuss how duality, perception, and transformation shape our understanding of reality, and why nothing is ever purely Yin or Yang.

This conversation offers a philosophical foundation for understanding Yin and Yang as an active, dynamic relationship rather than simple opposites, with insights relevant to both Chinese medicine and everyday experience.

You can access the transcript here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/yin-yang-the-this-and-that

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In this episode, Dr. Skye Sturgeon explores the enduring relevance of Gui Pi Tang (Return the Spleen Decoction), a classical formula with over 2,000 years of history that remains a staple in clinical practice.

Often categorized as a Qi and Blood tonic, Gui Pi Tang is uniquely focused on addressing Spleen Qi and Heart Blood deficiency while calming the Shen. Dr. Sturgeon discusses its historical roots, key herbal components, and why it is especially effective for presentations involving insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, excessive rumination, fatigue, and deficiency-related bleeding.

You can access the written article here: https://www...

In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Yvonne Lau joins us to explore the traditions of Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival (Chūn Jié 春節), beginning February 17, 2026 -- the Year of the Fire Horse.

Celebrated over 15 days, the holiday is filled with meaningful customs, auspicious foods, temple visits, red envelopes, and time-honored dos and don’ts. Yvonne shares insights into daily traditions, many rooted in southern Chinese and Cantonese practices, and offers simple ways to honor the season of renewal.

Mark your calendar and welcome the new year with intention and joy.

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Fire, fire, and more fire.

In this episode, Wendy Goldman breaks down what the Year of the Yang Fire Horse means on a personal and collective level, from rapid change and innovation to health, emotions, and opportunity within chaos. Learn how to stay grounded, prepared, and in harmony as this powerful year unfolds.

About the Author
Wendy S. Goldman, L.Ac. has been in private practice in San Diego for 25 years. She is also a 14th generation Master in the 800-year old Emei Qigong lineage. Wendy can be reached at [email protected].

Chinese New Year, also known as Chūn Jié or Spring Festival, is a time of renewal, ritual, and preparation for the year ahead. In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Yvonne Lau shares traditional and modern ways to prepare for the holiday, with a focus on clearing stagnation, supporting healthy Qi flow, and setting the stage for health, harmony, and good fortune.

From decluttering and cleaning to auspicious foods and New Year’s Eve customs, this conversation offers practical insights into how preparation itself can be a meaningful and supportive practice.

You can access the...

Lichun marks the release of winter’s stagnation and the first stirring of spring Yang. Drawing from classical texts and clinical experience, Yvonne Lau explores how seasonal transition influences Liver Qi and emotional regulation. 

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/lichun-beginning-of-spring-clinical-reflections-on-seasonal-transition

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In this episode of Chinese Medicine Matters, Dr. Skye Sturgeon discusses two closely related classical formulas used for external Wind–Cold–Damp invasion: Jing Fang Bai Du Wan (Release the Exterior Teapills) and Ren Shen Bai Du San ( Resilient Warrior Teapills).

The episode focuses on the key point of differentiation between these formulas, constitutional strength and the presence of Qi deficiency. Dr. Sturgeon reviews their traditional origins, clinical indications, and practical considerations to help practitioners choose the appropriate formula based on presentation and underlying vitality.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com...

Brain fog, mental fatigue, forgetfulness, this week we’re talking about Cerebral Tonic Tablets (Bu Nao Pian). Tune in as we explore how this classic formula supports memory, focus, and cognitive clarity by nourishing the Sea of Marrow and calming the Shen.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/cerebral-tonic-tablets

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In this episode, Mary Lynn Morales and Ray Reider join us to share the work of the Charlotte Maxwell Clinic, a free clinic serving women in the Oakland area who are navigating cancer with limited financial resources.

They discuss the life-changing care the clinic provides, the deep sense of meaning that comes from volunteering, and the hope this work brings to women who often have very little support. 

For listeners in the Bay Area, the clinic welcomes volunteers who feel called to this work. And for those near and far, they are always looking for s...