Chinese Medicine Matters

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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