Chinese herbs are different from Western herbs in the manner they are collected and processed. Some are extensively treated before they reach the consumer. Hence, they require different extraction methods. Furthermore, unlike their Western counterparts, Chinese herbs are traditionally used in decoctions and in combinations, only rarely used fresh or in infusions (teas). The familiar term "cold processed" which is often used by marketers to imply a gentle and superior process rarely has any relevance as far as Chinese herbs are concerned. Examples and extraction methods will be given.