While all Western Medicine has a plant or mineral source, this is often forgotten when reduced to an 'active ingredient' which then discards the bulk of the herb. Thereafter medicine is manufactured into bleached white pills. Much of western medicine is driven by its pharmaceutical industry, which is interested in patents and profit. Eastern herbs are presently unable to be patented – hence little interest from the western pharmaceutical industry until quite recently. Asian Medical philosophy values an herb holistically for its full spectrum of phytonutrient qualities. Herbal formulas containing multiple herbs synthesize and strengthen medicinal power. A further benefit of Asian Medicine is that Eastern herbs have fewer side effects overall when prescribed appropriately.

Another distinction between Western and Eastern medicinal values is the acceptance and valuation of nature. Asian philosophy exalts nature as the foundation of life; respectfully studying our relationship to the natural and universal world. Human life is considered within the natural fabric, not alienated from, or better than, the natural world. For example, Asian medicine considered our bodily relationship to the seasons and to the moon cycle. Many people who engage Asian Medicine want to actually handle the colorful healing herbs. It's that potent and clear of a relationship between our health and the diverse life of the planet.