Flex (MLT) is designed specifically to treat chronic or mid-to-late stages of musculoskeletal injuries, with atrophy of the soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage), decreased mobility of the joints, cartilage degeneration, and generalized weakness and pain. This formula contains herbs to tonify blood, activate blood circulation, nourish yin, and dispel wind-damp.
Prior to purchasing this product, it is recommended to book a consultation with one of our acupuncturists in order to determine whether this herbal formula will be beneficial for you.
Clinical Applications:
* Atrophy and wasting of muscles, ligaments, and tendons
* Cartilage damage from chronic wear and tear
* Decreased range of motion and mobility of the joints
* Rehabilitation from chronic or late-stages of musculoskeletal injuries
* Prevention against wear and tear or breakdown of cartilage and soft tissue surrounding joints
* Individuals engaging in repetitive motions who wish to maintain healthy joints and connective tissue
TCM Functions:
* Tonifies qi and blood
* Activates qi and blood circulation
* Nourishes yin
* Dispels wind-damp
* Strengthens muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones
Cautions and Contraindications
* This formula should not be taken during the acute phases of injuries with bleeding and bruises, as there are many tonic or warm herbs that may worsen the condition.
* This herbal formula contains herbs that invigorate blood circulation, such as Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis). Therefore, patients who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies, such as Coumadin (warfarin), should use this formula with caution, or not at all, as there may be a higher risk of bleeding and bruising.[2],[3],[4]
* According to most textbooks and contemporary references, the classic entry of "He Shou Wu" is now separated into two entries: the unprepared Sheng Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori) and the prepared Zhi He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata), as they have significantly different therapeutic effects and side effects. Sheng Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori) is a stimulant laxative that treats constipation, but may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in rare cases, liver disorder (dose- and time-dependent, and reversible upon discontinuation).[5] On the other hand, Zhi He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata) is a tonic herb that is safe and well-tolerated. The dramatic changes in the therapeutic effect and safety profile are attributed to the long and complicated processing of the root with Hei Dou (Semen Sojae) through repeated blending, cooking, and drying procedures. When properly processed, the chemical composition of the root changes significantly. Many new compounds are generated from the Maillard reaction (four furanones, two furans, two nitrogen compounds, one pyran, one alcohol and one sulfur compound). Furthermore, the preparation process causes changes in the composition of sugars and 16 kinds of amino acids; it also reduces the pH of the herb from 6.28 to 5.61.[6],[7] In summary, these changes give rise to the tonic effects of the prepared roots, and eliminate the adverse reactions associated with the unprepared roots. Note: Due to medical risks and legal liabilities, it is prudent to exercise caution and not use this herb in either prepared or unprepared forms in patients with pre-existing or risk factors of liver diseases.
Flex (MLT)
Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba)
Chu Shi Zi (Fructus Broussonetiae)
Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae)
Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis)
Dang Shen (Radix Codonopsis)
Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae)
Qian Nian Jian (Rhizoma Homalomenae)
Wu Jia Pi (Cortex Acanthopanacis)
Xu Duan (Radix Dipsaci)
Zhi He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata)