depression

 Depression: Treatment from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

Depression is a condition that affects more and more people around the world. It manifests itself not only in low mood, but also in lack of energy, anxiety, sleep problems and concentration disorders. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), depression is treated as a result of disturbances in the flow of Qi (life energy), blood (Xue) and an imbalance of Yin and Yang in the body. TCM offers a holistic approach to treating depression, which includes herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises and diet.

Causes of Depression in TCM

In TCM, depression can be the result of a variety of causes, including:

Liver Qi Stagnation : Chronic stress, anger and tension lead to stagnation of Liver Qi, which can cause depression, sadness and frustration.

Blood Deficiency (Xue) : Blood deficiency can cause mood swings, fatigue, and lack of energy, which can lead to depression.

Yin deficiency and excess Yang : A lack of Yin in the body leads to excess heat (Yang), which can manifest as nervousness, insomnia and feelings of anxiety.

Spleen Qi Deficiency : In TCM, the spleen is responsible for energy and blood production. Its weakness leads to chronic fatigue, lack of concentration, and sadness.

Treating Depression in TCM: Herbs, Acupressure, Qigong and Diet

1. Herbs for treating depression

Herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine are designed to restore energy balance in the body and strengthen the flow of Qi. Here are some herbs that can help treat depression:

Xiaoyao San (Harmonizing Powder) – A blend of herbs that supports the flow of Qi in the liver, relieves symptoms of stress and depression, and improves mood. It is one of the most commonly used herbs in TCM for depression.

He Huan Pi (Albizia bark) – This herb has calming properties and is used to treat emotional problems such as depression, anxiety and excessive nervousness.

Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) – Known as “Women’s Ginseng,” Dang Gui aids in blood circulation, improves mood, and supports hormonal balance, which is important for depression related to low energy.

Chai Hu (Bupleurum) – This herb helps regulate the flow of Qi in the body, reduces stress, improves mood, and has a tonic effect on the liver.

2. Acupressure for depression

Acupressure is an effective technique in TCM that involves pressing on specific points on the body to restore energy balance and improve well-being.

HT7 (Shenmen) Point – Located on the wrist, in the hollow on the inside of the hand, this is a calming point that helps treat anxiety, insomnia and depression.

LV3 Point (Taichong) – Located on the foot, between the big and second toe. This is a point that relieves Qi stagnation in the liver, reduces stress and emotional tension.

LI4 Point (Hegu) – Located on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. Pressing this point helps reduce pain, improves energy flow, and relieves stress-related depression.

How to do acupressure?

Gently press these points for 1-2 minutes, using small, circular motions. This can be done daily, especially in times of stress or tension.

3. Qigong to improve your mood

Qigong is a form of exercise that combines movement, breathing, and concentration to help restore energy balance in the body. Practicing Qigong regularly can help reduce symptoms of depression, improving mood and energy.

Qigong exercise for depression:

Stand in a comfortable, stable position with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Raise your hands in front of you, imagining you are holding a ball of energy.

Make slow, circular movements with your hands, as if you were forming energy in your hands, focusing on your breathing.

Repeat for 5-10 minutes, focusing on restoring inner harmony and balance.

This exercise helps to synchronize breathing with movement, which brings a feeling of peace and harmony.

Diet to support the treatment of depression

A proper diet is an important part of treating depression in TCM. Foods that support energy balance and improve mood are key to the healing process.

Foods that strengthen Qi : Warm soups, cereals, rice, and foods rich in fiber and vitamins support mental and physical health.

Blood Tonic Foods : Red meat, beets, spinach, and eggs will help rebuild energy and improve mood.

Avoiding cold foods : Cold drinks and foods can slow down the flow of energy in the body and worsen symptoms of depression.

A recipe for tea to improve your mood

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis)

1 teaspoon He Huan Pi (Albizia bark)

500 ml hot water

Preparation:

Pour hot water over the herbs.

Brew for 10-15 minutes, then strain.

Drink tea every day, especially in times of stress or low mood.

Why does it work?

Dang Gui and He Huan Pi support hormonal balance, improve blood circulation, relieve emotional tension and help improve mood.

Summary

Depression is a serious emotional disorder that requires a holistic approach to treatment. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers natural methods that can help improve mental and physical health. Herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and a proper diet can restore energy balance, improve mood, and support the process of treating depression. TCM is an effective, natural support in the fight against depression

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