Privacy Policy — TCM Formula Helper

Last updated: 2026-05-10

TCM Formula Helper ("the extension") is a Chrome browser extension that helps users search and insert Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas. This policy explains what data the extension handles.

1. What we collect

Nothing. The extension does not collect, transmit, or share any personal information, browsing history, or usage analytics with the developer or any third party.

2. Data stored locally on your device

The extension uses Chrome's local storage (chrome.storage.local) to save:

• Your formula library (built-in formulas plus any you add or edit)
• UI preferences (filter settings, default toggles)
• Optional Google Sheet URL for formula sync (if you choose to use it)

This data never leaves your device unless you explicitly export it.

3. Optional Google Sheets sync

If you provide a Google Sheets URL in Settings, the extension will fetch the published CSV directly from Google. The request goes from your browser to Google's servers; the developer does not see, log, or proxy this traffic.

4. Permissions

• storage — save your formulas and preferences locally.
• activeTab & scripting — insert formula text into the page you are currently viewing, only when you click "Insert".
• clipboardWrite — copy formulas to clipboard when you use the copy action.
• host permissions (<all_urls>) — required so insertion works on any page (EMRs, Google Docs, hospital systems, etc.). The extension does not read or transmit page content.

5. Third parties

The extension does not use analytics, tracking, advertising, or any third-party SDKs. It makes no network requests except the optional Google Sheets fetch you initiate yourself.

6. Children's privacy

The extension is intended for healthcare practitioners, students, and researchers. It does not knowingly collect any data, including from children.

7. Changes to this policy

If this policy changes, the updated version will be posted at the same URL with a new "Last updated" date.

8. Contact

Questions or concerns: shawn@orientalwow.com

TCM Formula Helper is a free, open tool. No account, no tracking, no ads.