Longevity Mountain Herbs FAQs

To begin your personalized treatment plan, you will first have an initial consultation and assessment with Master Herbalist Mark Hammer. You can start the process by calling the clinic. During your consultation, Master Herbalist Mark Hammer will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand the underlying causes of your health concerns. Based on this, he will formulate a personalized plan that will include Chinese herbal medicine recommendations, food therapy, reasonable exercise and lifestyle adjustments. The initial assessment is currently free.

Before your assessment session, you will need to complete the online assessment. This form is crucial as it provides the Master Herbalist with the information needed to give you the best recommendations. There are 3 options for completing your assessment form:

• Online form is located at https://traditional-chinese-herbs.com/online-assessment/
• The Longevity Mountain Assessment PDF form is located here. CLICK
• The Longevity Mountain Assessment Word doc form can be found here. CLICK

Please send your completed forms to herbmaster@traditional-chinese-herbs.com. The online version has a SUBMIT button that will auto send the doc to the senior herbalist.

The assessment form will ask for details about any conventional medications and supplements you are currently taking so that the herbalist can review them for potential interactions.

After you submit your assessment, Master Herbalist Mark Hammer will review it within 24-48 hours to develop a plan addressing your condition and its characteristics. He will then contact you to schedule a convenient phone appointment. During the consultation, the senior master herbalist will discuss his findings and recommendations with you. Your input on the assessment is highly valued, as you are the one who will be living with the results. Follow-up sessions are also offered at no charge to ensure you are achieving the desired results. Mark can do the assessment over the phone because he is an experienced herbalist (35+ Years). The online meeting was set up to manage all the clients and to provide superior service to his clients.

Yes, your personal information is kept strictly confidential. All details from your Chinese medicine assessment, including discussions, forms, and notes, are stored privately and will not be shared with anyone. Your records will only be disclosed if a court order from a judge is provided. However, this situation has never occurred in his 35 years of practice. Longevity Mountain Herbs is committed to ensuring your privacy as a client.

Longevity Mountain Herbs is a clinical practice with a brand of premium herbal supplements, extracts, and remedies rooted in over 2,500 years of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice. The company was founded in 1998 by senior master herbalist Mark Hammer, who combines global herbal traditions with the time-tested wisdom of TCM. Inspired by his martial arts journey, Master Herbalist Hammer refines ancient formulas to enhance vitality, energy, and longevity. Longevity Mountain Herbs is committed to educating and empowering customer-clients by providing affordable and effective natural health solutions to support wellness and an active lifestyle. The brand’s unique approach is also reflected in its dedication to honoring both Eastern and Western herbal knowledge.

Longevity Mountain Herbs’ herbal formulas operate within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where each herb has specific actions and affinities for certain internal organs. A typical herbal prescription consists of 6 to 18 different plants that work synergistically to address a health problem. Chinese herbs work to address the root cause of an imbalance rather than only easing symptoms. Formulas are made to match each person’s specific pattern of disharmony, with the aim of restoring balance and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal. Over thousands of years, certain combinations of herbs have been carefully refined to produce reliable results.

Chinese herbs are highly effective in treating a wide range of conditions that are often addressed with Western medications. These may include issues like menopausal symptoms, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive problems. The extensive historical use of Chinese herbs, supported by a growing body of research, supports their efficacy. For example, systematic reviews suggest that certain Chinese herbal formulas improve menopausal symptoms such as sleep and hot flashes. When a personalized herbal plan is created, it is designed to address both your primary health concern(s) and its root cause.

At Longevity Mountain Herbs, you receive the expertise of a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner who is also a master herbalist. A TCM practitioner is trained to diagnose and treat conditions using TCM principles. They seek to understand the root cause of an imbalance by applying theories like Yin-Yang, Constitutional Balance and the Five Elements. An herbalist specializes in using herbs for specific ailments. Senior master herbalist Mark Hammer possesses over 35 years of experience, using multiple diagnostic methods to inform his assessments. This combination of extensive experience and comprehensive diagnostic skill sets him apart from many others in the field.

Longevity Mountain Herbs offers a variety of traditional Chinese herb preparations to suit different preferences and needs. The most common forms provided include extract powders, tablets, capsules, and tea pills. We also offer custom preparations, such as syrups, and topical remedies like creams, balms, and medicated tapes. Each preparation is selected to ensure optimal effectiveness and ease of use. The specific preparation recommended for your personalized plan will be discussed during your consultation.

Choosing the right formula is a collaborative process with Master Herbalist Mark Hammer, C.M.H. During your free initial assessment, he will conduct a thorough review of your health history and current concerns. Based on a comprehensive TCM diagnosis, he will create a custom herbal prescription tailored to your specific pattern of imbalance. The formulas are rooted in classical prescriptions that have been used for millennia and are modified to suit your individual needs. You do not need to choose a formula on your own; the Master Herbalist’s expertise ensures that your personalized plan is designed for your unique condition. However, clients can and do choose formulas themselves. However, it is highly recommended to consult the herbalist.

The safety and quality of Longevity Mountain Herbs’ products are our top priority. We source our herbs exclusively from GMP-certified (Good Manufacturing Practices) suppliers, which means they adhere to stringent quality control standards. Each batch of raw herbs undergoes rigorous testing for purity, including checks for heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants. This comprehensive testing process ensures that every product you receive is not only safe but also free from harmful substances. The commitment to using only certified, high-quality herbs reflects our dedication to providing safe and effective traditional Chinese herbal remedies.

It is important to discuss any existing medications with master herbalist Mark Hammer during your personalized consultation. The herbalist has studied pharmacology and has continued his studies. While many herbal formulas can be used safely, certain herbs may interact with specific prescription drugs. For example, some herbs (ex. gingko) may affect blood thinners or other medications. By providing a complete list of your current medications and supplements, Master Herbalist Hammer can create a custom herbal plan that reduces the risk of adverse interactions. His extensive experience ensures that your personalized herbal plan is safe and works well with your current health regimen.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), care progresses in tiers, beginning with the least aggressive strategies and advancing appropriately. A patient’s strength and overall condition is assessed before progressing to the next level or tier.

1. Food therapy & lifestyle (constitutional)
2. Herbal medicine (TCM)
3. Therapeutic movement: (tai chi, qigong)
4. Acupuncture & cupping (not suitable for everyone)
5. Concentrated or other substances (potent, last-resort interventions)

Our clinic intentionally specializes in tiers 1–3, where most people can make meaningful gains safely. We do not offer acupuncture or cupping here; when those methods are truly indicated, we provide referrals. This tiered approach reflects Mark Hammer’s traditional training and a commitment to safe, ethical, and effective care.

Safety is paramount during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and caution is advised. While some herbs are safe for use during these periods, many others are not. A number of traditional Chinese herbs are contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential risks. For this reason, we recommend that you do not take any of our products without a personalized consultation and a clear recommendation from the senior master herbalist. He can assess your individual situation and provide a safe and effective plan or recommend suitable alternatives. The well-being of both you and your baby is our highest priority. We are committed “to do no harm” to any human being.

Yes. We provide individualized plans for children using a gentle, tiered approach grounded in classical Chinese medicine:

• food therapy & lifestyle adjustments,
• child-appropriate herbal formulas

Dosages are customized by age, weight, and constitution. All pediatric plans require a consultation with a parent or guardian. We do not perform acupuncture or cupping in this clinic; when needed, we may refer to trusted practitioners. Mark Hammer, master herbalist, has extensive experience crafting children’s formulas and coaching families on safe use.

Yes. We focus on food therapy and pet-safe herbal formulations adjusted for size and temperament. If your animal has an urgent condition, please contact your veterinarian first. Mark Hammer has collaborated with veterinarians to develop safe, targeted formulas for companion animals. Chinese medicine is a recent innovation for an estimated 25% of vets (2025). Chinese herbal therapy has been provided to pets for 5000 years in China. We provide veterinarians and their patients, Yunnan Baiyao which is highly effective for bleeding.

The time it takes to see results from traditional Chinese medicine can vary widely depending on the individual and the nature of the condition. For acute conditions, such as the common cold/flu, digestion, pain, etc., many people may experience improvement within a day. However, for moderate, chronic conditions like toxicity, emotional challenges and elimination issues, it may take a week to several weeks. For extreme conditions (diabetes, tumor, reproductive and circulatory) it may take 2-6 months to observe significant changes. The goal of our herbal formulas is to address the root cause of the imbalance, which often requires consistent use over time. Adherence to your personalized herbal medicine plan is crucial, and regular follow-ups with master herbalist Mark Hammer can help track your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Placing an order with Longevity Mountain Herbs is a straightforward process. For a personalized herbal plan, the first step is to complete the online assessment form and schedule a free consultation with master herbalist Mark Hammer. Following your consultation, if a custom formula is recommended, you will be provided with instructions on how to proceed.

In most cases, the herbalist will send you an invoice with the name of formula, benefits, dose, price and shipping for you to review. Once the invoice is paid then custom formulas are made. For all formulas and other brand products, you can call the clinic directly to place your order or order online. The process is designed to ensure you receive the expert guidance needed to select the correct product for your health goals.

Longevity Mountain Herbs accepts major credit cards for payment. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Zelle, Venmo, etc. The company utilizes a secure payment system to protect your personal and financial information. When you provide your payment details over the phone we do not store your information. All credit card information is processed through a secure terminal. Your data remains confidential and protected at all times. The commitment to using a secure payment process reflects the company’s dedication to maintaining customer trust and privacy.

Changes or cancellations to an order are possible, but there are specific guidelines to follow. Orders for pre-made products can be changed or canceled at any time before they are shipped. Once an order for a pre-made product has been shipped, it cannot be canceled. For custom herbal formulas, the process is different. Because custom formulas are prepared specifically for you after your consultation, they cannot be canceled once the preparation has begun. This policy is in place to ensure efficiency and minimize waste. If you need to make a change or cancel your order, it is best to contact us as soon as possible.

Yes, you will receive an order confirmation for all purchases made with Longevity Mountain Herbs. For orders placed over the phone, a confirmation and receipt will be sent to the email address you provide. This confirmation will include a summary of the items purchased, the total cost, and your order number. It serves as your record of the transaction and can be referenced for any future inquiries. The company’s commitment to providing a clear order confirmation ensures transparency and helps you keep track of your purchase.

Yes, Longevity Mountain Herbs ships both within the U.S. and to many international destinations. Domestic orders are shipped via either USPS Priority Mail or UPS Ground. International orders are shipped via USPS First Class International unless otherwise specified. Shipping availability for international orders may vary depending on the destination country’s regulations regarding herbal products. If you are located outside the U.S., it is recommended that you contact us directly to confirm whether we can ship to your specific location and to understand any potential customs restrictions or fees. Our goal is to ensure that our premium herbal remedies are accessible to customers worldwide.

Shipping costs for all U.S. orders depend on weight of the order. Typically, the shipping is $8-12.00 unless you requested a large order. For domestic orders, the estimated delivery time is typically 2-5 business days. International shipping costs are calculated based on the destination and the weight of the package. These costs will be determined at the time of your order. Please note that international delivery times can vary significantly, ranging from 7 to 21 business days, depending on the destination country’s customs processing. All shipping costs and estimated delivery times are provided to ensure a clear understanding of the delivery process.

Once your order has been processed and shipped, you will receive an email confirmation that includes a tracking number. You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your package. For U.S. orders, the tracking number can be used on either the USPS or UPS website. For international orders, the tracking number will be linked to the USPS tracking system. We recommend checking the provided tracking information regularly for the most up-to-date delivery status. If you have any issues with tracking your package, call, text or email for rapid assistance.

In the event that your package is lost or significantly delayed, we will work with you to resolve the issue. If the tracking information shows that the package has been delivered but you have not received it, we recommend first checking with your local post office. For packages that are confirmed as lost by the carrier, Longevity Mountain Herbs will either send a replacement order or issue a full refund. The company is not responsible for packages lost due to an incorrect shipping address provided by the customer. It is the customer’s responsibility to provide a valid and accurate shipping address at the time of the order.

You may return sealed products for a refund within 30 days of purchase. Before returning a product, you must notify Longevity Mountain Herbs by phone. Refunds are issued within 30 days after the returned product is received. A refund will also be processed if an order is canceled, the product is rejected upon delivery, or the payment is made but the product never leaves the facility, provided the product is received back at Longevity Mountain Herbs. Please note that opened bottles cannot be returned.

If your product arrives damaged or incorrect, you should notify Longevity Mountain Herbs within two days of receiving the goods. For damaged items, you must take pictures of the damage and send them to us via email. Damaged, defective, or incorrect items may be returned for a replacement, full credit, or a refund. We are committed to making the situation right for you. If you receive the wrong items or a damaged shipment, we will assist you to ensure you receive the correct and undamaged products.

Yes, a restocking fee may be applied to returns in some cases. If the return is not due to our error, a fee of 15% of the sales price will be charged, in addition to shipping costs. This fee is applied to cover the costs associated with processing the return and restocking the product. However, if the product is defective, damaged, or a shipping error occurred on our part, you will not be charged a restocking fee. Our policy is designed to be fair and transparent for both the customer and the company.

If you feel that the herbs are not working, or if you suspect you are experiencing an adverse reaction, please contact the master herbalist for support. Do not assume the product is ineffective. Often, issues may be related to other factors, such as a change in diet, an environmental event, an allergic reaction to something else, or a stress reaction.

The company provides support services to help you address these concerns and to ensure that the Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment is working effectively for you. Master herbalist Mark Hammer will provide guidance and adjust your custom herbal treatment plan, if necessary.

Keep formulas in a cool, dry place, away from heat, steam, and direct sunlight. Close lids tightly after each use. Do not refrigerate or freeze unless we specifically advise it. Leave any desiccant (drying agent) pack in the container. For safety, store out of reach of children and pets. To preserve integrity, keep formulas in their original containers unless we instruct otherwise.

Often, yes. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparations can look and smell very potent without being spoiled. Normal variations include:

• Color shifts after opening (oxygen exposure can darken or lighten part of a blend).
• Settling/stratification in capsules (heavier ingredients may collect toward the bottom).
• Herb dust on tea pills or inside bottles.
• A strong, earthy or resinous aroma that reflects herb potency.

We do not use animals or animal by-products in any preparation.

If you have any doubt at all, please contact the herbalist before using. Because Chinese medicinals are powerful and traditionally processed, self-testing by smell, taste, or appearance is not reliable. We’re happy to review your specific lot and storage conditions.

As a general rule, do not use the product and contact us if you notice:

• A container that arrived tampered with or unsealed.
• Obvious water intrusion (wet clumps from a spill, not normal settling).
• Visible, active mold growth (fuzzy or spreading).
• Signs of pests/contamination.

U.S. supplement labeling practices are different from classical Chinese pharmacy methods that are centuries old. Many TCM preparations are stable for long periods when properly stored, and certain materials are intentionally aged to deepen effect and refine taste. (Think of long-aged ginsengs or honeys that remain usable when properly kept.) Your formula’s best-by date supports compliance and handling guidance, not a blanket judgment of potency. When timing matters for your specific formula, we will note it on your label and advise you directly.

Please reach out before using the product if anything seems unfamiliar. Provide the lot name, date, and a photo if possible; we can tell you quickly whether what you’re seeing is a normal, harmless variation or something that requires replacement.

In classical Chinese medicine, evidence is clinical: centuries of documented formulas, pattern diagnosis, and lineage-based teaching, refined through real-world outcomes. We pair that tradition with modern quality controls (sourcing, testing, and batch documentation) and careful follow-up with clients. When a formula helps a person with a specific pattern, that match is our primary unit of evidence. After 3000+ years and millions (possibly 1 billion+) of people reporting benefit, herbalist(s)  have determined effectiveness.

There is some modern research on Chinese herbs and formulas, but it is uneven. Many classical prescriptions were not designed for pharmaceutical-style trials, and newer studies often test simplified or newly created blends that do not reflect time-tested clinical practice.

Our approach:

• We prioritize classical formulas and custom modifications that have stood the test of clinical use.
• We review emerging studies without letting them override what consistently works in clinic for the patterns we treat.
• We do not claim universal effects; we match formulas to the person, not the diagnosis alone.

If you’re curious about a specific herb or formula, ask. We’re happy to explain the classical rationale and any relevant modern data – with context.

Trends come and go. We focus on what reliably works now for the pattern in front of us. That typically means:

• Starting from a classical base formula with a known track record.
• Adjusting to the individual (constitution, strength, season, co-factors).
• Avoiding one-size-fits-all protocols that ignore pattern differentiation.

Safety is non-negotiable. We:

• Use vetted suppliers and third-party testing where appropriate.
• Document lots, track outcomes, and refine dosing over time.
• Practice a tiered ethic of care: food therapy and lifestyle; herbs; movement. We do not offer acupuncture or cupping in this clinic; referrals are provided when truly indicated.
• No animal products are used in our preparations.

If anything about your formula looks or smells unfamiliar, contact the herbalist first—self-testing is not reliable in this tradition.

Start with foundational, lineage-rooted learning and guidance from experienced clinicians:

• Ask us for a curated reading list of accessible introductions to classical ideas (e.g., pattern thinking, seasonal living, classical materia medica/formulas).
• Explore trusted translations and commentaries on core texts when you’re ready (for example, classical formula compendia and materia medica texts).
• Learn to practice the basics first: food therapy, lifestyle balance, herbal therapy and exercise that regenerates the body’s life force – these strategies are the foundation for extending a quality life.

Chinese medicine education can be beneficial if it is rooted in real TCM and respects its traditional roots. For an advanced understanding, consider an apprenticeship with a seasoned practitioner beyond the academic environment. It is important to know the effective formulas that sustain a real Chinese medicine practice and how to conduct a daily, successful practice from a senior herbalist who lives it.