Blog

by Amy Hausman, L.Ac, Ord.Min.

Today Chinese herbs are being used more widely in U.S. clinics and hospitals. This expansion and higher demand has led to a depth of information on Chinese herbs and an increase in suppliers made available to both practitioners and the public. Further research and numerous articles have been done on many of the herbs in our pharmacopeia to outline their uses, side effects, contraindications and their interactions with other herbs and medications. While this has increased the widespread use of Chinese herbs, they are still not under the jurisdiction of the FDA, and anyone, including unlicensed practitioners, can get access to them leading to improper dosage or overuse. Years ago, this resulted in certain herbs, like Ma Huang / Ephedra, being banned in the U.S. even though they were entirely safe and very effective when prescribed by a licensed herbalist. It is up to us as practitioners to stay informed on the latest developments regarding Chinese herbs and how they are processed so we continue to use them safely in our clinics…

By an Anonymous NY Licensed Acupuncturist

For emerging practitioners and seasoned clinicians alike, the promise of a turnkey “wellness co-op” sounds like the ultimate career move: built-in doctor referrals, effortless insurance overflow, and claims of earning $1,000 a shift.
Behind the polished pitch of an established 25-year-old spa, one newly licensed practitioner uncovered a predatory reality: zero referrals, hostile desk staff, broken clean needle standards, and a fixed overhead that cost $4,500 in losses in just 90 days.
Before you sign a commercial sublease, read this essential case study on the operational, financial, and clinical red flags lurking in shared spaces—plus the exact due diligence checklist and smart interview questions you must ask to protect your license and your bottom line.