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Understanding Emotions and Chinese Medicine
| Traditional Chinese medicine, emotions and physical health are intimately connected. Sadness, nervous tension and anger, worry, fear, and overwork are each associated with a particular organ in the body. For example, irritability and inappropriate anger can affect the liver and result in menstrual pain, headache, redness of the face and eyes, dizziness and dry mouth.
A diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine is highly individualized. Once an organ system is identified, the unique symptoms of the patient determine the practitioner's treatment approach.
Using the liver again as an example, breast distension, menstrual pain, and irritability during menses are treated with certain herbs and acupuncture points, and migraines headaches, dizziness, and inappropriate anger with redness of the face point to a different type of liver pattern and is treated in a different way.
What does the liver have to do with migraines? Organ systems in the traditional Asian sense may include the Western medical-physiological function, but are also part of a holistic body system. The liver, for example, ensures that energy and blood flow smoothly throughout the body. It also regulates bile secretion, stores blood, and is connected with the tendons, nails, and eyes.
By understanding these connections, we can see how an eye disorder such as conjunctivitis might be due to an imbalance in the liver, or excess menstrual flow may be due to dysfunction in the liver's blood-storing ability. Besides emotions, other factors such as dietary, environmental, lifestyle, and hereditary factors also contribute to the development of imbalances.
Spleen
Emotions - worry, dwelling or focusing too much on a particular topic, excessive mental work
Spleen Function - Food digestion and nutrient absorption. Helps in the formation of blood and energy. Keeps blood in the blood vessels. Connected with muscles, mouth, and lips. Involved in thinking, studying, and memory.
Symptoms of Spleen Imbalance - Tired, loss of appetite, mucus discharge, poor digestion, abdominal distension, loose stools or diarrhea. Weak muscles, pale lips. Bruising, excess menstrual blood flow, and other bleeding disorders.
Lung
Emotions - grief, sadness, detached.
Lung Function - Respiration. Forms energy from air, and helps to distribute it throughout the body. Works with the kidney to regulate water metabolism. Important in the immune system and resistance to viruses and bacteria. Regulates sweat glands and body hair, and provides moisture to the skin.
Symptoms of Lung Imbalance - Shortness of breath and shallow breathing, sweating, fatigue, cough, frequent cold and flu, allergies, asthma, and other lung conditions. Dry skin. Depression and crying.
Liver
Emotions - anger, resentment, frustration, irritability, bitterness, "flying off the handle".
Liver Function - Involved in the smooth flow of energy and blood throughout the body. Regulates bile secretion, stores blood, and is connected with the tendons, nails, and eyes.
Symptoms of Liver Imbalance - breast distension, menstrual pain, headache, irritability, inappropriate anger, dizziness, dry, red eyes and other eye conditions, tendonitis.
Heart
Emotions - lack of enthusiasm and vitality, mental restlessness, depression, insomnia, despair.
Heart Function - Regulates the heart and blood vessels. Responsible for even and regular pulse. Influences vitality and spirit. Connected with the tongue, complexion, and arteries.
Symptoms of Heart Imbalance - Insomnia, heart palpitations and irregular heart beat, excessive dreaming, poor long-term memory, psychological disorders.
Kidney
Emotions - fearful, weak willpower, insecure, aloof, isolated.
Kidney Function - Key organ for sustaining life. Responsible for reproduction, growth and development, and maturation. Involved with lungs in water metabolism and respiration. Connected with bones, teeth, ears, and head hair.
Symptoms of Kidney Imbalance - Frequent urination, urinary incontinence, night sweats, dry mouth, poor short-term memory, low back pain, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and other ear conditions. Premature grey hair, hair loss, and osteoporosis.
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September 2011
Wang's Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic. Welcome to our September Issue!
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tGreetings!
Welcome to our September newsletter.
Summer is almost over and school is back in session!
The art of raising children is a fine dance. This is a challenging era for both parent and child, especially during the adolescent and teenage years; and the task of preparing young adults for college and ultimate independence can be daunting, and often can be the source of significant anxiety.
Although we have discussed anxiety in previous articles significantly more patients are presenting with anxiety-related issues.
Anxiety can be effectively treated and managed with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Discover more in this newsletter.
Enjoy,
Dr. Jeffrey, Wang, DOM and Dr. Mary Ren, DOM
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Anxiety does not have to be debilitating
According to Chinese medicine anxiety is understood as being a disorder of Shan You Si and is believed to affect the Zang Organs. The precise cause of anxiety is determined by the extent to which each individual zang organ is affected. There are particular signs and symptoms that help to determine the cause and remedies based on herbs are prescribed accordingly.
There are four categories of anxiety according to Chinese medicine
1. Heart/Spleen Qi Deficiency: Anxiety, obsessive worry, preoccupation, palpitations, fatigue, aversion to speaking, abdominal distention, poor appetite, weak pulse and pale tongue are some of the symptoms that denote this pattern of disharmony.
2. Liver Qi Stagnation Affecting the Spleen: Irritability and moodiness along with hypochondriac pains, constipation, muscular tension and distended sublingual veins are some of the things that characterize this pattern of disharmony.
3. Kidney Qi Deficiency: Along with the above mentioned signs the individual suffering from this kind of disharmony has a fear phobia, lack of sexual responsiveness along with lower back and knee weakness.
4. Lung Qi Deficiency: Although this pattern of disharmony has a lot of similar symptoms it is also characterized by spastic behavior and the refusal of the individual to let go. Shortness of breath, excessive sweating and coughing are also some of the ways in which Lung Qi Deficiency manifests it self.
Chinese herbs are used with the aim to treat the disturbance that occurs in the Shen. They also help to correct the pattern of disharmony amongst the zang organs. By having these effects on the body, Chi nese herbs can normalize the shen which helps the individual to remain calm.
Chinese herbs used for the treatment of Anxiety There are various Chinese herbs that have been singled out for individual use whereas a number of Chinese herbs are also used in combination in order to create formulas that can help regulate the shen and balance out the zang organs.
Suan Zao Ren is one of the most popular Chinese herbal formulas used for the purpose of calming down the Shen. This particular herb has excellent calming properties. In cases where the heart and spleen Qi have been affected the most commonly used herbs include Bai Zhu and Fu Shen.
The Chinese herb Bai Zhu is also used in combination with Huang Qi as well as We Wui Zi. This combination also helps to tonify Lung Qi as well as working to calm the shen.
There are certain combinations of herbs that are known to effectively harmonize the liver and the spleen. Classic combinations include Bai Zhu, Bai Shao, Dang Shen and Chai Hu.
In cases where the kidney Qi has also been affected the most popular Chinese herbal formulas make use of herbs such as Shu Di Huang and Yuan Zhi along with others.
Dr. Wang is a Chinese Herbologist. Please contact us at 704.968.0351 for a comprehensive evaluation. |
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The importance of efficient blood flow
 Poor blood circulation is a common problem. More and more people are leading sedentary lives or spend all day at a desk. This can lead to complications from poor blood circulation. Some symptoms of poor circulation are swelling in your feet and legs, tingling in your hands and feet, cold hands and feet, low energy and a bluish tinge to your lips and under your fingernails.
Your body can not function properly if it does not have adequate blood flow. It will not get a sufficient amount of oxygen or nutrients to be at its peak. By increasing your circulation you can improve the functions of your internal organs, brighten your skin and have more energy and stamina.
4 Ways to Increase Blood Circulation
It is not hard to increase your blood circulation. Exercise and physical activity are two of the easiest and best ways to do it. If you work at a desk, take regular breaks every hour and walk around or stretch for five to ten minutes. Take a short walk on your lunch hour. Take the stairs instead of the elevator and park your vehicle further away from the building so you can get some extra exercise each morning and afternoon.
All of these tips will not only increase your blood circulation, but stimulate your lymphatic system and help to rid your body of toxins. Regular exercise, at least 30 minutes three times a week, is recommended to increase your stamina and blood flow. Work up to this amount if you haven't been active so that your body can adjust and you don't end up getting sore.
- Add Some Spice to Your Life
A delicious way to improve blood circulation is to include certain foods and spices into your diet. Citrus fruits have an abundant amount of vitamin C which helps to keep your blood flowing and keep plaque from building up in your arteries. It does this with a mild anticoagulant effect. When your blood is thinner it flows in your blood vessels better thereby increasing circulation.
Nuts and seeds contain high amounts of vitamin E. Vitamin E helps to prevent blood clots and strengthens your blood vessels. Eggs, olives and organ meats are also high in vitamin E.
Tomatoes are high in lycopene especially when they are cooked. Lycopene is an antioxidant that helps to prevent free radicals and is present in many red colored foods. Watermelon, pink grapefruit, apricots and persimmons are also high in lycopene.
- A tasty way to improve blood circulation is with spices and herbs.
Garlic contains a high amount of antioxidants, helps to prevent plaque build up in your arteries, is a natural antibiotic and was used before the development of modern antibiotics to fight infection (health benefits of garlic). Other foods that have these properties are leeks and radishes. If you've ever eaten spicy food you know the flushing sensation hot peppers can give you. This is because they heat up your body and make your blood flow.
Cayenne and turmeric increase blood circulation. Turmeric also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and is used quite extensively in Indian cuisine. Both cayenne and turmeric are natural blood thinners.
Ginger also has a mild warming action in your body and will improve blood circulation (health benefits of ginger).
Hawthorn berries help to regulate your heart rate and strengthens your heart so it can pump more blood.
Ginkgo Biloba not only increases your mental abilities but its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce varicosities and increase circulation.
- Explore Alternative Medicine
Chinese medicine has been around for many centuries, and the Western medical community is now recognizing the effectiveness of traditional cures.
Chinese medicine also uses cayenne, ginger and ginkgo biloba to increase circulation. Kelp and butcher's broom are used for their nutritional value and to strengthen blood vessels.
Blue vervain has anti-inflammatory properties and prickly ash bark is used for its stimulating effect. The roots of the white peony flower relax your blood vessels and make it easier for your heart to pump your blood.
Always obtain herbs from a qualified Chinese medicine practioner. As with any herbal supplements, make sure none of them will contradict any prescription medications you may be taking.
Deep breathing exercises increase lung capacity and increase the oxygen in your system. Many people have a habit of breathing very shallow and don't even realize it. You should use your diaphragm to breathe deeply and your stomach should go up and down as your breathe in and out.
To practice breathing correctly place your hand on your abdomen and breathe in through your nose, then exhale through your mouth. Your hand should go up and down as your breathe.
An increase in oxygen levels in your blood will benefit your entire body and boost your metabolism.
Use these tips to improve blood circulation and increase your overall general health. An increase in circulation will increase the amount of oxygen in your body and help to improve your mental clarity.
 Chinese herbs can have the ability to widen the arteries, according to Nathan S. Bryan, Ph.D, from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Chinese medical practitioners have used herbal formulas for thousands of years. "Traditional Chinese medicine has provided leads to safe medications in cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes," states Dr. C. Thomas Caskey of the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine. In addition to eating healthy food for proper body function, herbal remedies used by the Chinese can keep the blood flowing for optimum health.
Ginkgo Biloba
For thousands of years, ginkgo biloba has been used to promote blood flow throughout the body. It helps to thin the blood, which in turn reduces clotting that can restrict blood flow to all parts of the body. Ginkgo biloba should not be used with blood thinning medications.
Berries Combining the hawthorn berry with cayenne and garlic, can help increase circulation to the feet and legs. Its effects may be gradual, but they are long term. The huckleberry, which is high in flavonoids and increases circulation to the extremities, generally grows wild in woodsy areas or open fields that are near the woods.
Astragalus and Atractylodes
One of the most common herbs used in treating cardiovascular problems today is astragalus. The benefits come from flavonoids and polysaccharides that promote healthy blood cells, and it can be used to help with the side effects of chemotherapy. Atractylodes work to help move nutrients to the blood from the digestive tract.
 Garlic, Cinnamon and Ginger
Using garlic in recipes can promote good health by improving your circulation. It helps to lower blood pressure and keep arteries strong. The Chinese use cinnamon to help increase circulation. It warms the body and works to balance circulation between the upper and lower extremities. In addition to providing a pungent flavor in cooking, ginger has been used to increase circulation to the limbs.
Ginseng
Ginseng helps with blood pressure, the body's ability to utilize oxygen and regulating blood sugar. This helps provide a calming effect.
Licorice, Peony and Tang-kuei
The licorice root has a bittersweet taste. Chinese doctors have used it to help heal many ailments, including heart valve diseases. The peony flower root helps regulate the blood by relaxing the vessels and reducing sticking of platelets. It nourishes the blood and helps circulation to all parts of the body. The root of the tang-kuei helps nourish the blood and improve circulation.
Dr. Wang is specialist in the area of herbal medicine and remedies. Ask Dr. Wang about special herbal formulas available in his office that can help promote blood flow and circulation.
Please contact us at 704.968.0351 for a consultation.
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Help your memory with Chinese medicine  If you worry that your memory is going, you're not alone. Memory loss can the result of a number of factors, the most common of which is your age. However, hormonal changes, diet, stress, and simply trying to do too many things at once can also mess with your memory.
There are a couple of organ systems in Chinese medicine that are related to memory. The first is the Heart. The Chinese Heart is home to your consciousness, spirit, feelings, thoughts, and...yes, your memory. Memory loss is one of the hallmark signs of a Heart disharmony.
Your Chinese Spleen is the organ closely related to digestion. Good digestion helps something called clear Yang to rise upward allowing for mental clarity. When your digestion is not up to par, you may experience fuzzy thinking and memory problems, along with digestive symptoms, such as heartburn, stomach aches, low blood sugar, gas, bloating, poor absorption of foods, and diarrhea or constipation.
The Kidney system is also a player in memory. One of the important functions of your Chinese Kidney system is how well and healthfully you will age. As you get older, your Kidney gets weaker as a matter of course, affecting everything from your hearing to the strength of your bones, and your mental function/memory. Along with aging, your Kidney also controls things like growth, sexuality, and reproduction. When women go through menopause, their Kidney system is affected, which is why memory seems to take an additional hit during this time.
So the question is: Can Chinese medicine and acupuncture help with memory loss? There is no simple yes or no, depending on the source of the problem. However, in many instances, Chinese medicine can help. For some patients, memory problems are directly related to the amount of stress they're experiencing, and in others, the memory issues began as part of menopause.
According to Chinese medicine, there are some things that you can do to safeguard your memory.
In our practice, we are effectively able to help with memory issues through the use of acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatments.
How are some important ways you can help with your own progress:
 -Simplify your life. If you're feeling overwhelmed, your brain is full. At a certain point, you just can't hold onto any more details, so you start to forget them.
-Minimize stress. Stressful situations cause you to be preoccupied, making it difficult for you to remember anything except details about what's stressing you out. Do whatever it takes, whether it's steps to resolve the stressful situation, or a Yoga class, meditation, taking up a hobby, or carving out quiet time to yourself.
-Eat heathy. It sounds simple, but it's not always so easy when you're running from meeting to meeting or getting your kids from one activity to another. Sometimes the only solution seems to be something quick-and not so good for you. Take the time to plan what you'll eat, and bring it with you if necessary. Good food is whole food, unprocessed, whole grains, lots of vegetables, and a little protein, with very small amounts of red meat, if any. Try to eliminate sugar.
-Digest that good food you've eaten. Take the time to sit down and eat.
-Protect your Chinese Kidney. How? Well, slow down, for one. Overwork can be a direct cause of illness and depletion in Chinese medicine. Also, excessive partying, while fun, weakens your Kidney system and sends you into your senior years in less than optimal health.
In addition to Chinese medicine, Western doctors and scientists are looking for ways to protect memory as we age. They have been conducting research on memory and the various factors that may help slow memory loss. Among them:
-Get moving. Data from a study that began in the 1930's shows that moderate exercise (as little as two times a week!) can lower your chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's.
-If you're a smoker, quit now. While you can't completely undo the damage in terms of degeneration to your brain, the sooner you quit the better.
 -Drink green tea. Results from a 2006 study indicate that as little as a cup or two a day of green tea, which is packed full of antioxidants, can cut your risk of cognitive problems by 50 percent.
-Make lists. Memory lapses can be the by-product of simply trying to do too many things at once. At a certain point, your brain just can't hold any more details. Make lists of the things you want to do or remember to get rid of some of that brain clutter.
-Play mind games. Crossword puzzles, soduku, trivia quizzes, or even learning a new skill or language can keep your brain exercised and can slow memory loss.
The good news here is that small changes can be enough to yield big results as long as you keep them up. A few cups of green tea, acupuncture to relieve stress, a couple of days a week of exercise, and moderate changes in your diet can be enough to lower your risk of age related memory problems.
Please contact us at 704.968.0351 and let us help. |
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