Most herbs are very cheap, especially considering the long term benefit. $10 of herbs might prevent up to 3 or 4 common colds and flus and possibly following bronchitis attacks from those diseases. That’s very cost effective. Long term “tonification” (supplementation) will be more of an investment. Generally speaking, herbal formulas are not intended as lifelong prescriptions. They are taken until they’ve served their purpose and then modified appropriately or discontinued.