digestive disorders

 Digestive Disorders - Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Digestive problems are a common problem that affects many people, manifesting with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, nausea, and constipation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these ailments are seen as the result of an energy imbalance in the body, which leads to internal organs not functioning properly. TCM offers a holistic approach that focuses on diagnosing and treating the causes of digestive problems using acupuncture, herbs, diet, and exercises such as Qi Gong.

Diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Diagnosis in TCM is based on understanding Qi energy and the functions of organs such as the Stomach, Spleen, Liver and Intestines, which are crucial to healthy digestion. Here are some of the most common disorders and their causes according to TCM:

Spleen Qi Deficiency : Manifestations include fatigue, apathy, diarrhea, and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. The spleen in TCM is responsible for processing food and extracting Qi energy from it – its deficiency can lead to poor digestion and accumulation of dampness.

Liver Qi Stagnation : Chronic stress, frustration, and anger can cause Liver Qi stagnation, which results in bloating, abdominal pain, heartburn, and bowel problems. The Liver regulates the flow of Qi, and its stagnation disrupts the functions of the Stomach and Spleen.

Dampness and Mucus Accumulation : Manifested by a feeling of heaviness, bloating, nausea and problems with food absorption. Excessive dampness is the result of an unhealthy diet and poor functioning of the Spleen, which is unable to transform dampness into energy.

Stomach Yin Deficiency : This results in a dry tongue, heartburn, a burning sensation in the stomach, and a craving for cold drinks. Yin deficiency leads to excessive dryness and heat in the digestive tract.

Treatment Methods in TCM

Acupuncture : The use of acupuncture can help regulate the flow of Qi and Blood, reduce muscle tension, and stimulate the function of the digestive organs. Acupuncture points such as Zu San Li (ST36) and Zhong Wan (CV12) are often used to treat digestive problems, supporting the Spleen and Stomach.

Chinese Herbs : Herbal medicine is an integral part of TCM. In the case of digestive problems, the following are used:

Huang Qi (astragalus root) – strengthens the Qi of the Spleen and Stomach.

Chen Pi (orange peel) – relieves flatulence and stimulates the flow of Qi in the Stomach and Spleen.

Ban Xia (pinellia root) – reduces moisture and helps remove mucus.

Sheng Jiang (fresh ginger) – has a warming effect and helps with nausea and digestive problems.

Huang Lian ( coptidis ) - eliminates heartburn and inflammation

Regular use of a herbal mixture recommended by a TCM specialist helps restore balance and improve digestive function.

Diet : TCM recommends eating warm and easily digestible foods that support the Spleen and Stomach. It is worth avoiding raw, cold and fatty foods that can burden the digestive system. Recommended foods include:

Rice porridge (congee) with ginger and a little honey - warms the Stomach and strengthens the Qi.

Chicken Soup with Ginseng – strengthens the Spleen and Qi.

Pumpkin Soup – supports the Spleen and helps remove moisture from the body.

Qi Gong Exercises : Qi Gong is a meditation practice that combines movement, breathing, and concentration to improve the flow of energy in the body. Regular Qi Gong exercises, such as Bai Hui Gong (Liver and Spleen Exercises), help release energy stagnation, reducing tension in the body and improving digestive function.

Sample Recipe for Pumpkin Congee

Ingredients :

100g rice

200g pumpkin

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

A pinch of salt

Water (1 liter)

Preparation :

Peel the pumpkin and cut into small cubes.

In a large pot, boil water and add rice and pumpkin.

Cook over low heat until the rice and pumpkin are soft and have a creamy consistency.

Add fresh ginger and salt to taste.

Summary

TCM offers a comprehensive approach to treating digestive disorders, which is based on restoring the energy balance in the body. Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, diet and Qi Gong are effective methods that not only help relieve symptoms but also support the overall vitality of the body. With digestive disorders, it is important to support the Spleen, Stomach and Liver, so it is worth consulting an experienced TCM therapist who will select the appropriate treatment methods tailored to individual needs.

Other diseases

News about Digestive Disorders and new ways and methods of treatment will appear here.