Are your herbs lab tested?

Yes. All herbs and formulas we carry are lab tested for identity, heavy metals, and microbial safety before being offered for sale.

Do you offer practitioner or wholesale pricing?

Yes. Herbalists, acupuncturists, and other qualified practitioners may qualify for wholesale or bulk pricing. Contact us or visit our wholesale information page for details.

Are your herbs sulfur-free?

Yes. Our herbs are sulfur-free unless clearly noted otherwise. We prioritize clean processing and traditional preparation methods.

Where do you ship from?

All orders are processed and shipped from our facility in Washington State, USA. We offer domestic shipping and select international options.

Do you provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs)?

Yes. Certificates of Analysis (COAs) are available upon request for many of our herbs and formulas. Please contact us if you need documentation for a specific product batch.

Beginner Guide to Herb Forms, Goals, and Smart Buying Decisions

Choosing the Right Chinese Herbs: Beginner Guide to Herb Forms, Goals, and Smart Buying Decisions

Not sure which herb to buy or which form is best? This beginner-friendly guide helps you choose the right Chinese herbs based on your goals, routine, and preferred preparation style.

Start With Your Goal (Before You Pick a Product)

Beginners often search for “the best Chinese herb,” but the better question is: “What am I trying to do, and what form fits my routine?”

Choosing the right herb starts with practical questions:

Do you prefer tea/decoction preparation or convenience?
Do you want single herbs or traditional formula formats?
Are you comfortable measuring herbs at home?
Do you want cut herbs, powders, granules, or teapills?

Starting with your real-life routine helps you choose products you will actually use consistently.

How to Choose the Right Herb Form

The same herb may be available in multiple forms. Each form has different benefits for preparation time, taste, convenience, and traditional use style.

Common Chinese Herb Forms

Cut & sifted herbs: Traditional form for decoctions and teas.
Powders: Convenient for blending, custom formulas, and measured use.
Granules: Fast preparation (often mixed in hot water).
Teapills: Portable and convenient for travel and routine use.
Extract powders: Concentrated format, often used in smaller servings.

Chinese Herb Form Comparison (Beginner-Friendly)

Herb Form	Best For	Pros	Considerations
Cut Herbs	Traditional decoctions/teas	Classic preparation style, flexible combinations	Requires simmering or steeping knowledge
Powders	Convenience + blending	Easy to measure, versatile	Taste/texture may be strong for some users
Granules	Fast daily routine	Quick prep, portable	Formulations and strength can vary
Teapills	Convenience and travel	Easy routine, no brewing needed	May not suit users wanting raw herb prep
Extract Powders	Concentrated use	Potent format, often smaller serving size	Read labels carefully for extract ratios and directions

Which Herb Form Is Best for Beginners?

There is no single “best” form for everyone. The best form is the one you will use consistently and correctly.

Choose cut herbs if you want traditional preparation and hands-on learning.
Choose powders or granules if you want a simpler daily routine.
Choose teapills if convenience and portability are your top priorities.

If you are brand new, start with one format and learn it well before trying everything at once.

Smart Buying Checklist for Choosing the Right Herb

Confirm the herb name (Pin Yin + common name + botanical if listed).
Choose a form that matches your schedule and preparation preference.
Read the product description for ingredient transparency.
Check package size and compare true value (not just price).
Review storage guidance before purchasing larger quantities.
Use beginner guides for preparation and safe handling.

Internal Links That Help Beginners

FAQ: Choosing the Right Chinese Herbs

Should beginners start with single herbs or formulas?

That depends on your goals and comfort level. Many beginners start with a simple single herb or a familiar format, then learn more as they go.

Are powders better than cut herbs?

Not necessarily. Powders are often more convenient, while cut herbs are often preferred for traditional preparation styles. The best choice depends on your routine.

How do I avoid buying the wrong herb?

Check the Pin Yin name, common name, and botanical name when available, and read the product description carefully before ordering.

Choose With Confidence

The right herb choice starts with the right form, clear labeling, and a realistic routine. Explore beginner-friendly products and guides to make your first order easier.

Browse Herbs Next: Using Herbs at Home