menstrual problems

 Menstrual Problems / Menstrual Problems from the Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Menstrual problems, such as irregular periods, menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), heavy bleeding, and hormonal imbalances, are common complaints among women. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), menstrual irregularities are often related to an imbalance of Qi, blood (Xue), and Yin in the body. TCM offers a holistic approach to treating these problems through herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and dietary recommendations.

Causes of Menstrual Problems in TCM

In TCM, menstrual problems can result from a variety of causes, including:

Qi Stagnation : Disruption of the flow of Qi can lead to pain and irregularities in your menstrual cycle.

Blood Deficiency (Xue) : Blood deficiency can cause weak or irregular periods and pain due to lack of adequate energy in the uterus.

Yin Deficiency : Yin imbalance can lead to excess heat in the body, causing heavy and painful periods.

Liver Stagnation : Stress and emotions can cause Qi to stagnate in the Liver, leading to irregular periods and pain.

1. Herbs for treating menstrual problems

Herbs in TCM are crucial in treating menstrual problems. Here are some of the most commonly used herbs:

Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) – Also known as “Women’s Ginseng,” Dang Gui helps regulate the menstrual cycle, promotes blood circulation, relieves pain, and supports hormonal balance.

Chai Hu (Bupleurum) – Supports the flow of Qi in the body, relieves stagnation and promotes emotional balance, which is crucial for stress and tension associated with menstruation.

Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa) – Helps regenerate blood and replenishes its deficiencies, which is especially helpful in the case of heavy menstruation.

Yi Mu Cao (Leonurus heterophyllus) – This herb has properties that regulate the menstrual cycle, help dissolve stagnation and relieve pain.

2. Acupressure for menstrual problems

Acupressure is an excellent self-healing method that can help regulate menstrual cycles, relieve pain, and improve the flow of Qi. Regular use of acupressure can provide relief during menstruation and help maintain hormonal balance.

CV4 Point (Guanyuan) – Located about 3 fingers below the navel, this is an important point in regulating the function of internal organs and balancing Yin and Yang energies, especially for menstrual problems.

SP6 Point (Sanyinjiao) – Located on the leg, about 4 fingers above the ankle. Helps regulate the menstrual cycle, relieves pain and inflammation in the uterus.

Point LI4 (Hegu) – Located on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. Helps relieve pain, including menstrual pain, and reduce stress.

How to do acupressure?

Gently press each point for 1-2 minutes, using small, circular motions. This can be done daily, especially in the days before and during menstruation.

3. Qigong for Menstrual Health

Qigong is a meditative exercise that combines breathing, movement, and concentration that can support the flow of Qi in the body and help reduce menstrual pain.

Qigong exercise to regulate menstrual cycle:

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Bring your hands together in front of you, at heart level, and focus on even, deep breathing.

As you inhale, raise your arms up, and as you exhale, lower them down, imagining that you are filling your body with peaceful energy.

Repeat for 5-10 minutes, focusing on synchronizing your breathing with your movement.

This exercise helps with relaxation, reduces stress, and improves energy flow in the body, which can help support menstrual health.

Diet to support menstrual health

Diet plays a major role in the treatment of menstrual problems in TCM. A proper diet helps restore energy balance and supports the health of the organs responsible for the menstrual cycle.

Blood-Fortifying Foods : Red meat, eggs, beets, and spinach help replenish the blood and relieve problems associated with heavy periods.

Avoiding cold foods : Cold drinks and foods can unbalance the Qi and cause stagnation, which can aggravate menstrual problems.

Eating healthy fats : Nuts, avocados, olive oil – support hormonal health and the flow of Qi in the body.

Recipe for a tea that regulates the menstrual cycle

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis)

1 teaspoon Chai Hu (Bupleurum)

1 teaspoon Yi Mu Cao (Leonurus heterophyllus)

500 ml hot water

Preparation:

Pour hot water over the herbs.

Brew for 10 minutes, then strain.

Drink daily before or after meals, especially in the days before menstruation.

Why it works:

These herbs help regulate your cycle, improve Qi and blood flow, and support hormonal health, which can help ease menstrual symptoms.

Summary

Menstrual problems are a common condition that can be effectively treated with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and diet can help restore the body's energy balance, regulate the menstrual cycle, and relieve pain. The holistic approach of TCM offers natural treatments that are effective and support women's health at different stages of life.

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