TCM Acupuncture and herbal medicine for helping alleviate Stress
Stress could be the most dangerous of the emotions, particularly when it’s continual. Stress affects your body and mind and is relatable to the main causes of death in our world; accidents, health disease, cancers etc. Relaxing isn’t something you should do to indulge yourself, it’s absolutely essential!
Stress is a normal physiological response triggered when we feel threatened. When we are stressed our “fight or flight” responses, and our immune systems are activated. However, when we are under too much stress, or ongoing chronic stress, our stress hormones might not return to normal levels, and we remain in a permanent state of “fight or flight”.
Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can have a significant impact on our physical and mental well-being. TCM has been used for centuries to help alleviate these symptoms and restore balance to the body. Acupuncture, in particular, has gained popularity in the Western world as a holistic approach to managing stress and anxiety.
Studies have shown acupuncture can be an effective treatment for stress. It has been found to reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Acupuncture can also help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation, leading to a sense of calm and well-being.
Key Acupuncture Points for Stress Relief
- GV 20 (Bai Hui): Located on the very top of the head, this point is commonly used to calm the mind, alleviate anxiety, and improve focus.
- Yin Tang: Located between the eyebrows, this point is excellent for relieving anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness.
- HT 7 (Shen Men): Located on the wrist crease, this point is known as the “Spirit Gate” and is highly effective in calming the mind, reducing palpitations, and promoting sleep. ● PC 6 (Nei Guan): Located on the inner forearm, this point is widely used for nausea, anxiety, and palpitations. It helps regulate the flow of qi and calm the spirit. ● LV 3 (Tai Chong): Located on the top of the foot, this point is crucial for relieving stress, irritability, and anger. It helps soothe the liver and regulate qi flow.
- SP 6 (San Yin Jiao): Located on the inner ankle, this point is a master point for many conditions, including stress, insomnia, and menstrual irregularities. It nourishes the blood and calms the mind.
In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can also play a crucial role in treating stress. Chinese herbs are carefully selected based on an individual’s unique needs and can be
combined to create a personalized formula. These herbs work synergistically to address the root causes of anxiety rather than just masking the symptoms.
Chinese Herbs for Stress
- Rhodiola (Hong Jing Tian): Known as an adaptogen, it helps the body adapt to stress and can improve energy and mood.
- Bupleurum (Chai Hu): Often used to soothe the liver and regulate qi (energy) flow, which can be disrupted by stress.
- Albizzia Flower (He Huan Hua): Traditionally used to calm the spirit, alleviate anxiety, and improve sleep.
- Jujube Seed (Suan Zao Ren): Commonly used for insomnia, irritability, and anxiety due to its calming properties.
- Reishi Mushroom (Ling Zhi): A powerful adaptogen that can support the immune system, reduce fatigue, and promote relaxation.
Chinese Herbal Prescriptions for Stress
- Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder): A classic formula for emotional stress, irritability, and digestive issues often associated with liver qi stagnation. ● Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction): Used for anxiety, restlessness, emotional instability, and frequent crying spells.
- Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (Heavenly Emperor Tonify the Heart Elixir): Prescribed for insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, and poor memory due to heart and kidney yin deficiency. ● Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction): Addresses symptoms like fatigue, poor concentration, anxiety, and insomnia often linked to spleen qi and blood deficiency. ● Suan Zao Ren Tang (Jujube Seed Decoction): Primarily used for insomnia, palpitations, and irritability caused by liver blood deficiency and heat.
When combined with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can provide a comprehensive approach to managing stress. By addressing the root cause of the issue and promoting balance in the body, TCM can help individuals achieve long lasting relief and improve their overall quality of life.
It is also worth noting that TCM and acupuncture are not just about treating the symptoms of stress, but also about preventing it from occurring in the first place. By incorporating regular acupuncture sessions and Chinese herbal medicine into one’s lifestyle, individuals can build resilience against stress and maintain a state of balance and well-being.
At the Jade Centre we see many patients each year to help them to manage their health. Contact us now and book an appointment to get the support you need,
