The history and healing uses of Chinese herbs are analyzed May 14 at the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures. Al Leung – scientist, author, and consultant – will speak at 2 pm on “Chinese Herbs: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Supplements.”
“I grew up in Hong Kong in the Chinese herbal tradition with my maternal grandmother as our health provider and healer,” Leung said. “So I learned to use herbs at an early age.”
Leung studied pharmacy in college, earning a bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from National Taiwan University. His passion for natural remedies led to master’s and doctoral degrees in Pharmacognosy from the University of Michigan. Pharmacognosy is the study of natural drugs derived from plants or other natural sources.
Leung explores the rich tradition of China’s herbal medicines, answering the question: What exactly are herbal supplements? According to Leung, many modern herbal supplements are not really herbal, but specifically chemical based. If handled and used properly, many Chinese herbs are safe and effective home remedies for colds, the flu, hay fever, and other symptoms.
“Chinese herbs are safe and effective alternatives to chemical drugs,” Leung said. “I’ve advocated true herbal medicines and supplements as alternatives to toxic pharmaceuticals for over 40 years.” Among his dozens of publications, Leung is the author of Chinese Herbal Remedies, Chinese Healing Foods and Herbs, and Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics.
Leung’s presentation coincides with “China’s Imperial Treasures: Art and Artifacts,” the Museum’s main exhibit through June 18. Admission to the program is $5 for adults and free for Museum members. Located at 200 W. Mountain Avenue, the Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 11-5 pm. For more information, please visit globalvillagemuseum.org or call (970) 221-4600.