Traditional chinese medicine Archives - Page 7 of 14

Pharmacopeia

by Team | 2929,Jun, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

Powerful, tailor-made therapy

In China, medicinal plants are considered a “national treasure” and are widely used for both preventive and curative purposes. Indeed, in its country of origin, Chinese pharmacopoeia is used as a priority therapy. It is considered more powerful than acupuncture.

Chinese pharmacopoeia is a traditional medical system that has been developed in China for thousands of years. It is based on a holistic approach to health, aimed at restoring the balance between body and mind. It is used primarily to maintain health, but also to heal. It is a living discipline that continues to evolve over time.

Chinese pharmacopoeia is based on a set of principles and theories that form the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The most important of these are: Yin and Yang, Qi (vital energy), and the Five Elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water). According to these principles, health is the result of a harmonious balance between these forces and elements. Any imbalance or obstruction in the flow of energy leads to illness.

Before prescribing a herbal preparation, the Chinese doctor will carry out a diagnosis to assess the imbalances at the root of the patient’s symptoms. Each prescription, even if it’s based on existing recipes called formulas, will thus be tailored to each patient’s individual terrain and temperament.

Over 100,000 formulas recorded

Since the origins of Chinese pharmacopoeia, numerous formulas have been developed by renowned physicians. Some have been refined, while new ones have been developed over time.

There are many treatises listing these formulas. For example, Zhu-su’s Universal Aid Prescriptions, from the Ming dynasty, contained 61,739 formulas from ancient China.

More recently, the Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Prescriptions, compiled by Nanjing University of TCM, lists all existing formulas since the beginning of TCM. It contains more than 100,000 prescriptions!

A formula always consists of several plants or substances. Indeed, Chinese pharmacopoeia relies on the combined effect of several plants to create a synergistic effect.

This also minimizes the side effects that could result from taking a single plant in large quantities, or neutralizes certain toxic effects of a plant. The different substances can act on several aspects of the disease or on different organs.

The formula thus treats the disease with the aim of balancing the whole body and correcting underlying imbalances. With this in mind, the formula will be tailored to each patient to best address their specific conditions. Similarly, depending on the progression of the disease or changes in the patient’s health, the proportions and plants used may be adjusted accordingly.

Thousands of plants and substances

Chinese pharmacopoeia contains several thousand substances, of which around 300 are commonly used. These substances are mainly derived from plants, but may also include other elements. For example, there are mineral substances (cinnabar, sulfur, magnetite, etc.), animal substances (bones, shells, birds’ nests, pearl powder, etc.), insects (ants, silkworms, scorpions, etc.). Medicinal preparations may also include other substances such as beeswax, honey, and resinous substances. The list is not exhaustive.

Medicinal plants are selected based on their specific properties, flavor, nature, and interactions with the body’s organs.

Chinese pharmacopoeia takes into account contraindications and potential interactions between different medicinal herbs.

A formula is developed with particular attention to “the specific combination of the Monarch, Minister, Assistant, and Guide.” The Monarch remedy is the essential ingredient in the formula, responsible for curing the main symptom being treated.

The Minister reinforces the healing effect of the Monarch; the Assistant works with the first two to enhance their therapeutic effects and make them more tolerable. Finally, the Guide directs the effects of the other herbs to the organs to be treated and regulates the properties of the other herbs.

Chinese pharmacopoeia uses various methods of preparing medicinal herbs, such as decoctions (Tāng), infusions (Zhǒu), powders (Sǎn), tinctures (Jiǔ), and pills/tablets (Wàn). Decoctions are the most common.

A treatment not suitable for self-medication

It may seem obvious, but it is worth reiterating. Chinese medicine is effective, but it must be prescribed wisely, following a Chinese medicine diagnosis. Indeed, a disease, according to Western medicine criteria, may present different pathological pictures in Chinese medicine. This is why each patient will be prescribed a formula tailored to their individual case.

Furthermore, Chinese medicine considers that a disease evolves over time. This is why treatments vary rapidly throughout the course of care. A patient’s condition changes from day to day.

Medicinal plants are then adapted according to the patient’s evolving diagnosis. This is why, even if a patient has taken a formula a few weeks or months ago and it has been beneficial, it will not necessarily be suitable if certain symptoms—which appear similar—return. The patient is strongly advised to consult their Chinese doctor again.

Bitter-tasting remedies?

If herbal medicine is the most widely used form of Chinese medicine, it is because of its effectiveness. The Chinese are pragmatic and are not interested in pampering themselves, but rather in treating their ailments. Many Westerners are more sensitive to the comfort aspect of a treatment. Yes, it must be effective, but it should also be as pleasant—or at least as unobtrusive—as possible.

While acupuncture may scare some people, Chinese decoctions are often much worse! Some people don’t even have the courage to swallow them, while others throw them in the trash. Western noses and palates have undoubtedly become too discerning for their own health…

Beyond individual tastes and dislikes, the taste of a preparation varies greatly from one formula to another, ranging from rather sweet to very bitter. The decoction is usually consumed twice a day. Preparing a decoction takes a certain amount of time, which can also put some people off. However, many Chinese pharmacies now cook them and deliver them vacuum-packed to their customers.

Acupuncture

by Team | 3030,May, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

A therapy that stands the test of time

Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine, which dates back several thousand years. Its exact origins are shrouded in legend and myth. However, it is estimated that the medical practices that led to acupuncture began in China over 2,000 years ago.

According to legend, acupuncture was discovered by accident. A Chinese healer noticed that pain in certain parts of the body could be relieved by inserting needles into other parts of the body. This observation led to the development of acupuncture techniques for healing.

The use of acupuncture spread throughout China over the centuries. Practitioners developed complex systems of acupuncture points and specific techniques to treat different disorders. Acupuncture is often combined with other therapeutic techniques, such as moxibustion and cupping.

Over time, acupuncture spread to other parts of Asia and then gradually became popular around the world. The word acupuncture was coined by Jesuits in the 16th century when they discovered Chinese medicine; its real name is Zhēn Jiǔ, which means the art of metal needles and moxibustion.

A Taoist view of Man and the Universe

Acupuncture was introduced to Europe in the 17th century by Willem Ten Rhyne, a Dutch physician, but it really took off in the mid-20th century.

Scientific studies are regularly conducted to evaluate its effectiveness. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to be “official medicine.” Acupuncture, which is an integral part of TCM, is therefore recognized as a medical technique.

According to UNESCO, “Traditional Acupuncture is a therapeutic art that bases its diagnostic and therapeutic reasoning on a Taoist energetic vision of Man and the Universe.”

Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chi”), which is considered to be a vital force present throughout the universe and within the human body.

According to Chinese medicine, when Qi flows freely and is balanced in the body, health is achieved; conversely, blockages or imbalances in Qi can lead to health problems.

Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body by inserting fine metal needles into the skin at varying depths.

The needle has a sleeve, often made of twisted copper alloy, which acts as an antenna to allow qi to enter and exit. These acupuncture points are located along energy channels called meridians, which are considered to be the pathways through which Qi circulates in the body.

Acupuncture meridians

Acupuncture meridians, also known as energy channels, are pathways invisible to the naked eye through which Qi (vital energy) flows throughout the body according to TCM.

There is a complex network of meridians that connects different parts of the body, forming an interconnected energy system. According to TCM, these meridians carry vital energy called Qi throughout the body. There are 12 main meridians that are associated with specific organs and are named after those organs.

For example, the liver meridian is associated with liver function, the bladder meridian is associated with urinary function, and so on. Each meridian has a specific path through the body and passes through specific acupuncture points.

There are 361 commonly used points, but there are over 1,000 acupuncture points in the body. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ and physiological function.

Each meridian is associated with specific characteristics, such as times of day when its energy is most active, seasons of the year, emotions, and symptoms that may be related to its imbalance.

For example, the lung meridian is associated with autumn, sadness, and respiratory problems.

Freeing the flow of Qi

When Qi is blocked or unbalanced, the Chinese medicine practitioner looks to see which meridians are affected. They make a diagnosis, based on which they will define their therapeutic strategy. Inserting acupuncture needles into the points will restore energy balance by stimulating the flow of Qi and releasing energy blockages.

The needles are left in place for a certain amount of time (usually between 20 and 45 minutes) and can also be stimulated by various means (manual, electrical, moxibustion). Acupuncture allows for a global rebalancing of this energy network, which has an impact on organ function. Thus, over the course of acupuncture sessions, balance is restored and health is reestablished.

Sometimes acupuncture treatment may be combined with a prescription of Chinese herbal medicine. The number of sessions required will depend on each patient and how they respond to treatment. In general, the longer the illness or disorder has been present, the longer it will take (and therefore the more acupuncture sessions will be required) to overcome it. Conversely, an acute, mild, or recent disorder can be resolved in one or two sessions.

The many benefits of acupuncture

Acupuncture has many benefits. It can help relieve pain, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used to treat menstrual disorders, fertility problems, and sleep disorders. This list is far from exhaustive…

In some very rare cases, there may be an overreaction after an acupuncture session, which may suggest a worsening of symptoms. There is no need to panic, as everything usually returns to normal after a few hours.

In some Asian countries, notably China and Vietnam, although allopathic medicine has taken on an important role, people still turn to their ancestral medicine when they do not get the desired results with so-called Western medicine.

The meridian network

What has been translated as meridian is called in Chinese 经络 Jīng Luò, meaning “meridians and collaterals”. Jīng 经, before referring to “meridian”, means “to pass through”, or “channel”. Luò 络 translates as “entwined”, “continuous”. So the Jīng Luò constitute a network of intertwined, continuous channels that allow you to “pass through”.

The main channels all communicate with each other. This inter-connection is supported by other smaller, or secondary, channels called luò (collaterals). They are fundamental in connecting all parts of the body.

The existence of this vast network explains the holistic vision of TCM. This network extends throughout the entire body. Consequently, to act on one part is to act on the whole entity. Conversely, it is impossible to isolate a part without considering it as a whole. The network principle is fundamental to understanding how acupuncture works.

Channels and collaterals, like rivers, allow free circulation. This means the free circulation of the fundamental TCM substances qì (气), blood (血 xuè) and body fluids (浸液 Jìn yè). In classical texts, there are numerous images referring to the circulation of qì and blood in the body, likening them to rivers and seas. The names of many acupuncture points refer to this, such as Qū chí (LI11) the elbow basin, Chǐ zé (Po5) the ulnar swamp, Qì hǎi (Ren6) the qì sea, Fù liū (Rn7) restore the current, to name but a few. The term 经 Jīng itself can be translated as river.

Restored fertility

by Team | 2929,Apr, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

Chinese medicine to the rescue of infertility

According to recent figures from the WHO, one in six people worldwide are affected by fertility problems, and these figures are continuing to rise. They affect men and women equally. Among these cases of infertility, 20% are due to both partners at the same time.

These fertility problems are a source of concern and even stress for many couples. And yet, solutions do exist!

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fertility problems are caused by energy imbalances. All that is needed is to restore this energy balance in the partner(s) concerned so that the organs involved in procreation have all the energy they need.

A study conducted in the gynaecology and obstetrics department of the maternal and child clinic in Gan Shu province, China, demonstrated the effectiveness of TCM in this area. Two groups received two different treatments. The first group was treated with Western medicine ovulation stimulants, while the other group was treated with acupuncture and moxibustion. The group treated with acupuncture had a 65% higher success rate than the group treated with chemical medication.

In addition, doctors observed a 35-45% higher chance of success for patients receiving IVF (in vitro fertilisation) while also being treated with acupuncture.

Causes of female infertility in TCM

Chinese medicine lists several causes that may contribute to fertility issues. These will be identified through a personalised diagnosis. Here are the main causes of infertility in women.

The accumulation of ‘Phlegm-Dampness’:
Like Blood Stasis, the accumulation of ‘Phlegm’ can hinder fertilisation. This accumulation can also cause excess weight, abundant and viscous leucorrhoea, and even mucus in menstruation.

Kidney deficiency:
The kidney belongs to the water element, which is also responsible for the reproductive organs. It is considered to be the body’s battery.
Therefore, if the energy of the Kidney is low, the body will not allow pregnancy in order to avoid further energy loss. Or, if pregnancy does occur, it may be interrupted by a miscarriage. In the case of a weak Kidney, infrequent periods and a decrease in libido may be observed.

A deficiency of ‘Xue’ (Blood):
Blood plays a role in the conception of the foetus. If there is a lack of Blood, pregnancy cannot occur. A deficiency of Blood results in a pale complexion, dizziness, lack of strength, weakness and general fatigue.

Blockage of Liver qi:
The Liver’s function is to store and distribute Blood. When Liver qi is stagnant, it causes Blood stasis. This type of blockage is very common. It is caused in particular by anger, frustration, or stress. It is usually accompanied by premenstrual syndrome (breast pain, painful periods, light flow with dark blood, and sometimes blood clots).

The cold womb

Cold accumulation in the uterus and blood stasis:
A ‘cold uterus’ is very common. This means there is too much ‘cold in the abdomen and uterus’, which prevents fertilisation or implantation. The embryo needs warmth to implant itself.

The majority of women who consult us for fertility issues have this syndrome. Cold weather also causes a slowdown that can create ‘blood stasis,’ preventing pregnancy.

This stasis manifests itself in dark red periods, clots, and lower abdominal pain that worsens with palpation.

Blockage of the ‘Shen’ (spirit):

In some cases, everything is working well and the conditions for procreation are in place, but the woman, even if she wants a child, suffers from unconscious fears. These fears may be related to work, family, financial situation, etc.

In this case, the ‘Shen’ (spirit) is agitated, and the woman may unconsciously block fertilisation.

A significant improvement in sperm quality

Chinese medicine is equally effective in improving male fertility. It helps increase sperm production, improves sperm morphology and increases motility. Finally, it can resolve hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility. Here again, we focus on restoring overall energy balance, particularly in the kidneys, liver and spleen.

A study was conducted by the College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine on sperm abnormalities. Patients were treated with acupuncture, and an improvement in sperm quantity and quality and sex hormones was observed in the following rates:

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): +33%
LH (luteinising hormone): +35.3%
Oestrogen: +57.1%
Testosterone: +65.1%

Acupuncture, like Chinese herbs, increases blood flow in the pelvic cavity. This strengthens the kidneys and optimises the functioning of the sexual organs, while stimulating the body’s natural hormone production.

The result is an increase in the quantity and quality of sperm.

Of course, any fertility treatment must take into account environmental factors and the lifestyle of both partners.

Stress caused by various factors, including difficulty conceiving, can only increase energy blockages. The couple can then become trapped in a vicious circle.

Chinese medicine – acupuncture and herbal medicine – can also significantly improve stress management and help control disruptive emotions. This is an equally important factor in enabling couples to release pressure… and enter a state of serenity and openness conducive to procreation.

Healthy lifestyle and fertility

Beyond the energy imbalances mentioned above, certain environmental factors are harmful to fertility in both men and women. These include:

being overweight or underweight,
extreme working conditions such as prolonged exposure to heat or excessively long commutes,
stress,
lack of sleep,
the use of stimulants such as tobacco, alcohol, drugs, including excessive coffee consumption,
exposure to pesticides (endocrine disruptors),
exposure to other toxins (arsenic, lead, aluminium, mercury, parabens, Bisphenol A, etc.),
excessive exercise,
prolonged exposure to mobile waves (Wi-Fi, 4G, Bluetooth, etc.).

But above all, fertility requires both partners to take care of their well-being and agree to trust in nature. When they are in a good overall balance and their state of mind is calm and confident, then they are ready to welcome life… when the time is right. Because despite scientific progress, procreation remains a mystery and a blessing.