Prescribing herbs.

Wayne111

 Dear tutor, What thought processes does a practitioner go through when prescribing herbs?

Does he first diagnose the problem to arrive at the condition of the  the eight syndromes ; then ascertain what organs and meridians are not in balance; then look at the herbs in particular which herbs affect the organs concerned and the problem concerned?

For example if there, is loss of appetite, vomiting, loose stool and diarrhea, then the spleen and stomach would be a cause of concern. If the syndromes are cold and dampness, then the herbs should be given with herbs that warm the interior.

The herb chosen would be from the category "Aromatic Herbs for Resolving Dampness" and should be chosen because of its "Effects". this would give a clue to which formula to use. e.g. Atractylodes Rhizome could be the main herb in this case as it eliminates dampness and strengthens the spleen dispelling wind and cold. 

Am I on the right track?

Wayne