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.mayway.com/blogs/articles/gui-pi-tang-a-formula-for-settling-the-mind

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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.

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/chinese-new-year-holiday-traditions

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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].

You can access the written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/predictions-for-2026-year-of-the-yang-fire-horse

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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 written article here: https://www.mayway.com/blogs/articles/preparing-for-chinese-new-year

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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/blogs/articles/two-formulas-for-external-wind-cold-damp-invasion

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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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