A Traditional Approach to Modern Health in Barcelona & Sitges
Classical Chinese herbal medicine—known as Kampo in Japan and often referred to as Jing Fang (classical formulas)—is one of the oldest continuously practised systems of medicine in the world. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, it remains highly relevant today for treating a wide range of modern health concerns.
In my clinic, serving patients in Barcelona and Sitges, I integrate these time-tested herbal formulas with acupuncture, moxibustion, and shiatsu to provide a comprehensive and effective approach to treatment.
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The origins of Kampo and Jing Fang
Kampo medicine is rooted in two classical texts:
- Shanghan Lun (傷寒論 – Treatise on Cold Damage)
- Jingui Yaolüe (金匱要略 – Prescriptions from the Golden Cabinet)
These works were written by the physician Zhang Zhong Jing (張仲景) during the Han Dynasty (202 BC–220 AD) and are still studied and used in clinical practice today.
What makes these texts unique is their precision. Rather than offering general herbal guidelines, they present clearly structured formulas designed to match very specific symptom patterns. This allows for a highly targeted and effective treatment approach.
What makes classical herbal formulas different?
In modern Chinese herbal medicine, treatments are sometimes built around individual symptoms or general categories of illness. Classical formulas take a different approach.
Each formula is a carefully balanced combination of herbs designed to address a pattern—a constellation of signs and symptoms that reflect how the body is functioning as a whole. In Japanese, this is known as the “Sho”.
This means two people with the same Western medical diagnosis may receive completely different herbal prescriptions.
When the correct formula is selected, patients often experience:
- Noticeable improvement within a short period of time
- Greater clarity in energy and mental focus
- Improved digestion and appetite
- Better sleep and emotional balance
- A reduction in chronic or recurring symptoms
Because these formulas have been refined over centuries, they are known for being both effective and well-tolerated when prescribed correctly and can be taken alongside Western medicine.
Kampo: the Japanese refinement
During my training in Japan, I studied under a well-known Kampo and acupuncture practitioner, gaining direct experience in how these formulas are applied in a modern clinical setting.
Japanese Kampo medicine is particularly known for:
- Its diagnostic clarity and simplicity
- A strong emphasis on matching the exact formula to the patient
- The use of well-defined, classical prescriptions rather than heavily modified ones
This approach often leads to more predictable and efficient clinical results.
How herbal medicine complements acupuncture
Acupuncture is highly effective at regulating the body and restoring balance, but its effects can sometimes be limited by the frequency of treatment.
This is where herbal medicine becomes especially valuable.
By prescribing a classical formula alongside acupuncture, we can:
- Extend the effect of treatment between sessions
- Provide continuous support for the body’s recovery
- Address deeper or more chronic imbalances
- Maintain progress in patients who cannot attend regularly
For patients living in Barcelona, Sitges, or travelling internationally, this can be a very practical way to continue treatment consistently.
Conditions commonly treated
Classical Chinese herbal medicine can be used to support a wide range of conditions, particularly those that are chronic, complex, or stress-related.
In clinical practice, it is often helpful for:
- Digestive issues (bloating, IBS, weak digestion)
- Stress, anxiety, and emotional imbalance
- Fatigue and low immunity
- Long Covid and post-viral symptoms
- Respiratory conditions
- Hormonal and menstrual disorders
- Musculoskeletal tension and recovery
Treatment is always tailored to the individual, rather than the condition alone.
A gentle but powerful approach
One of the defining characteristics of Kampo and Jing Fang herbal medicine is its balance. These formulas are not designed to overwhelm the body, but to gently guide it back into a more functional state.
When prescribed appropriately, they are generally well-tolerated and can be used safely alongside acupuncture and other supportive therapies.
Is this approach right for you?
You may benefit from classical herbal medicine if you:
- Have a long-standing or recurring condition
- Feel that your system needs deeper support
- Are unable to attend frequent acupuncture sessions
- Are looking for a structured, traditional approach to healing
- Want to combine acupuncture with herbal treatment for better results
Classical herbal medicine in Barcelona & Sitges
In my practice, I combine traditional acupuncture with carefully selected classical herbal formulas based on the Kampo and Jing Fang traditions.
In addition to traditional raw herbs, I often use gentle, easy-to-take granulated herbal extracts. These are sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan, a well-established producer known for their high standards and quality. Sun Ten is an international benchmark in the production of herbal granules, with manufacturing certified under GMP, ISO and PIC/S standards, guaranteeing quality, safety and consistency between batches. Unlike traditional granules (where plants are extracted separately), all plants are decocted together from the start, preserving their natural interactions and increasing therapeutic efficacy.
The herbs are carefully prepared and concentrated into fine granules, allowing the original formula to be preserved while making it much more convenient to use. Instead of cooking herbs at home, the granules can simply be mixed with warm water to create a tea.
This form of herbal medicine is widely used in Japanese Kampo practice. It offers a practical and reliable way to receive the benefits of classical formulas, while fitting comfortably into everyday life.
This integrated approach allows for a more complete and effective treatment strategy, tailored to each individual.
If you are based in Barcelona, Sitges, or the surrounding area and would like to explore this approach, you are welcome to get in touch to arrange a consultation.