Menopause

 Menopause – How Can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Help?

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It is characterized by the end of the menstrual cycle and a decrease in hormone production, which can lead to a number of symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, and vaginal dryness. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a variety of methods to relieve menopausal symptoms and improve the quality of life for women during this period. In this article, we will look at acupressure, herbs, recipes, and Qi Gong and Tai Chi practices that can be helpful in managing menopause.

CAUSES AND MECHANISM OF MENOPAUSE IN TCM

In TCM, menopause is viewed as a natural process that involves:

Yin Deficiency : As women age, they often experience a decline in Yin, which leads to an excess of Yang, which manifests itself through symptoms such as hot flashes and sweating.

Qi Disorders : Qi stagnation can affect emotions, leading to mood swings and increased stress.

Blood Deficiency : Insufficient blood can lead to dryness of the skin and mucous membranes and general weakness of the body.

MENOPAUSE TREATMENT METHODS IN TCM

1. Acupressure

Acupressure can help relieve symptoms of menopause. Here are some points to press on:

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) : Located on the inside of the leg, supports hormonal balance and may relieve symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes.

KD3 (Taixi) : A point on the inside of the ankle that supports kidney function and therefore hormonal balance.

PC6 (Neiguan) : A point on the wrist that can help reduce anxiety and stress, which is important during menopause.

2. Herbs

Herbs are a key part of TCM that can help alleviate menopausal symptoms. Here are some herbs to consider:

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) : Known as "women's ginseng," it supports hormonal balance and improves blood circulation, which may ease symptoms of menopause.

Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) : An adaptogenic herb that may help balance hormones and relieve stress.

Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) : May help regulate estrogen and progesterone levels, which may ease symptoms of menopause.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) : Helps reduce sweating and hot flashes.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) : An adaptogenic herb that may help increase energy, improve mood, and balance hormones.

3. Herbal Formulas

In TCM, there are also traditional herbal formulas that can support women during menopause:

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan : This classic formula strengthens Yin and moisturizes the body. Contains six main herbs:

Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa)

Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis)

Gou Qi Zi (Lycium barbarum)

Fu Ling (Poria cocos)

Ze Xie (Alisma orientale)

Mu Dan Pi (Paeonia suffruticosa)

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is used to strengthen the kidneys and increase Yin levels, which may help relieve hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause.

Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan : This is a formula that is often used to reduce stress and regulate emotions, as well as improve circulation. The ingredients are:

Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense)

Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora)

Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis)

Zhi Zi (Gardenia jasminoides)

Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis)

Xiang Fu (Cyperus rotundus)

Sheng Jiang (Zingiber officinale)

Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan may help ease the mood swings and stress that often accompany menopause.

4. Simple recipe

Herbal Tea to Ease Menopause Symptoms

Ingredients:

5g Dong Quai

5 g sage

5g Jiaogulan

1 liter of water

Preparation:

Boil water in a pot.

Add all herbs and simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Strain and drink 1-2 cups daily.

5. Qi Gong and Tai Chi Practices

These practices can provide many benefits for women going through menopause, including:

Increased flexibility and strength : Qi Gong and Tai Chi improve your overall physical fitness, which can help manage the symptoms of menopause.

Stress and anxiety reduction : Practicing these techniques regularly can help relieve stress and improve emotional well-being.

Improved sleep : These exercises can help regulate sleep, which is important in combating insomnia that often occurs during menopause.

Qi Gong Meditation

Qi Gong meditation is a key element of the practice that can help you increase your awareness of your body and mind. Here is a brief description of a meditation you can do daily:

Finding a comfortable position : Sit or stand in a comfortable position with your back straight.

Focus on your breathing : Focus on your breathing, inhale through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth.

Energy Visualization : Imagine Qi energy filling your body as you inhale and releasing stress and tension as you exhale.

Calm Thoughts : Allow your thoughts to flow without clinging to them. Focus on a sense of calm and balance.

Practicing this meditation for 10-15 minutes a day can help reduce stress and improve your well-being.

CONNECTING TCM WITH OUR MEDICINE

It is worth combining the TCM approach with conventional methods of menopause treatment:

Consult your doctor : It is always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting any herbal therapy or acupressure.

Monitoring your health : Regular checkups can help you monitor hormonal changes and your health.

Education and support : Learn about healthy lifestyle choices, diet and physical activity that can support your health during menopause.

SUMMARY

Menopause is a natural process that can be supported through Traditional Chinese Medicine. Acupressure, herbs, and Qi Gong and Tai Chi practices can provide relief and improve the quality of life for women during this period. Integrating TCM into our medicine.

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