? Some herbs, particularly those that are tonic or adaptogenic in nature, may need to be taken for several weeks prior to noticing a profound effect.

? In general, it will take one month of herbal therapy to address each year of an imbalance.

? If one is treating an ongoing chronic condition it may prove beneficial to use a few different compounds that have similar effects and rotate their use.

? During acute conditions small doses of herbs are taken frequently whereas in chronic cases larger doses are taken on a less frequent basis.

? Herbs or formulas which have different actions or treat different body systems are best separated by at least 20 minutes. Take all herbs at least 45 minutes away from coffee.

? As the potency of an herb increases, the duration of its use decreases.

? Most herbs are best taken on an empty stomach ? one half hour prior to a meal or one hour after eating.