TCM herbs herbal formula for Insomnia

When insomnia rears its restless head, it can have many different faces. Traditional Chinese herbal medicine recognizes several different patterns of insomnia, and treats them according to their specificities. Here we walk you through four common types of insomnia and the herbal formulas used to address them. But broadly speaking, Chinese herbal formulas treat insomnia by:

• calming the mind,
• settling the nervous system,
• building the resources that the body needs for deep rest and relaxation.

Insomnia due to indigestion

For many people, eating a big meal—especially rich, heavy and spicy foods—too soon before bed can undermine quality of sleep or cause insomnia. Not surprisingly, when the digestive system is very active, the body will be restless and it will be hard to fall asleep. In this case, the best remedy is fairly obvious:

• avoid eating too late
• make your last meal of the day light and avoid spicy foods.

But Chinese Medicine also has a traditional herbal formula for insomnia due to indigestion, called Bao He Wan. It’s used on an “as needed” rather than an ongoing therapeutic basis.

The Bao He Wan formula:

• Shan Zha (Crataegi Fructus) – Hawthorn Fruit
• Shen Qu (Massa Medicata Fermentata) – Medicated Leaven
• Lai Fu Zi (Raphani Semen) – Radish Seed
• Chen Pi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium) – Aged Citrus Peel
• Zhi Ban Xia (Pinelliae Rhizoma Preparatum) – Honey Fried Pinellia Rhizome
• Fu Ling (Poria) – Hoelen
• Lian Qiao (Forsythiae Fructus) – Forsythia Fruit

Although this formula is composed of digestives, like radish seed and citrus peel, there are a few herbs in here that also help the heart and calm the mind:

• Shan Zha is a Chinese hawthorn berry which is very beneficial for circulation within the heart.
• Fu Ling is also a heart tonic (tonic meaning something that imparts energy, strength or vitality) with sedating and tranquilizing effects. In Chinese Medicine, the heart is responsible for the mind and mental agitation, and insomnia is typically attributed to the heart.

Insomnia due to Blood Deficiency

Insomnia due to indigestion usually occurs in isolated incidents and doesn’t tend to be a chronic problem. However, there is a diagnosis pattern that links

• digestive discomfort,
• fatigue,
• poor memory and
• insomnia.

In this case, the digestive system is deficient. The result is an inability to properly digest food and produce enough healthy blood. In Chinese medicine, quality of the blood is key. Memory and mental activity is closely linked to the state and quality of the blood. For example, the more blood and nutrients available, and the better the cerebral circulation, the better the memory.

The quality of the blood is also important for the heart and mind to be able to settle into sleep. With insomnia due to blood deficiency, it may be hard to fall or stay asleep, and the cause is typically due to worry or rumination. From the Chinese herbalist’s perspective, the excessive worry is closely linked to a deficiency in the digestive system, and the traditional remedy to this type of insomnia is a formula called Gui Pi Tang.

The Gui Pi Tang formula:

• Ren Shen (Panax Ginseng) – Chinese Ginseng Root
• Huang Qi (Astragali Radix) – Astragalus Root
• Bai Zhu (Atractylodis macrocephalae Rhizoma) – White Atractylodes Root
• Zhi Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) – Licorice Root
• Dang Gui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix) – Chinese Angelica Root
• Long Yan Rou (Longan Arillus) – Longan Fruit
• Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphi Spinosae Semen) – Sour Jujube Seed
• Fu Ling (Poria) – Hoelen
• Yuan Zhi (Polygalae Radix) – Polygala Root
• Mu Xiang (Aucklandiae Radix) – Costus Root
• Sheng Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens) – Fresh Ginger Root
• Da Zao (Jujubae Fructus) – Chinese Date

As in the previous formula, Gui Pi Tang contains a few digestives in it such as Sheng Jiang , Zhi Gan Cao, and Mu Xiang. We see Fu Ling again in this formula as it both helps digestion and nourishes the spleen and the heart. Other active ingredients in this formula that specifically calm the mind are Long Yan Rou, Suan Zao Ren, and Yuan Zhi. Blood nourishers in the formula include Long Yan Rou fruit and Suan Zao Ren—the seed of the Chinese red date. These ingredients have been widely used in Chinese herbal formulas to:

• reduce time necessary to fall asleep,
• help stay asleep and
• improve sleep quality.

Finally, Yuan Zhi is classically used to dispel brain fog and rumination and help the mind settle into sleep. Research on the active constituents of Yuan Zhi has found that it is nature’s helping hand for the stressed among us. A triterpenoid saponin from the roots, named Yuanzhi-1, shows potent antidepressant effects. Another Yuan Zhi constituent, 3,6′-disinapoyl, has been shown to:

• block stress-induced elevations of plasma cortisol,
• improved hippocampal-dependent learning and memory,
• rescue stress-induced deficits in hippocampal neuronal plasticity and neurogenesis.

Insomnia due to Yin Deficiency

Insomnia due to yin deficiency is the classic case of burnout. The yin is the body’s cooling system. The yin, or yin fluids, refer to the protective lining of all body tissues and nerves—it is a measure of the proper hydration of your body tissues. If yin “runs out,” the body overheats, leading to symptoms like afternoon fever, night sweats, and insomnia.

The kidneys are the body’s natural reserves of cooling fluids and are depleted after long hours of work and standing for long periods. If those fluids run low, the heat can go unchecked and rise, agitating the heart and the mind. This is a recipe for bad sleep, manifesting primarily as difficulty staying asleep and night sweats. The traditional remedy for yin deficiency-type insomnia is the formula Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan.

The Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan formula:

• Sheng Di Huang (Rhemanniae Radix) – Rhemannia Root
• Ren Shen (Panax Ginseng) – Chinese Ginseng Root
• Tian Men Dong (Asparagi Radix) – Asparagus Tuber
• Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogonis Radix) – Ophiopogon Tuber
• Dan Shen (Salviae miltiorrhizae Radix) – Salvia Root
• Fu Ling (Poria) – Hoelen
• Dang Gui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix) – Chinese Angelica Root
• Xuan Shen (Scrophulariae Radix)  – Scrophularia
• Yuan Zhi (Polygalae Radix) – Polygala Root
• Wu Wei Zi (Schisandrae Fructus) – Schisandra Fruit
• Bai Zi Ren (Platycladi Semen) – Biota Seed
• Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphi Spinosae Semen) – Sour Jujube Seed
• Jie Geng (Platycodi Radix) – Balloon Flower Root

This formula contains many herbs called yin tonics, such as Sheng Di Huang, Mai Men Dong and Tian Men Dong. These herbs replenish the body’s cooling system and fluids. We also find Xuan Shen, clears what we call ‘deficiency heat.’ In other words, it helps quell the internal fire that happens as a result of the cooling system being out of order.

We see some herbs from the previous formula such as Suan Zao Ren, which nourishes the blood as well as helps astringe fluids to keep the body hydrated, and Yuan Zhi which works on brain fog, calms the mind and has antidepressant properties.

Finally, Wu Wei Zi offers a host of benefits, as it:

• is both sweet and nourishing for the blood, and sour to astringe fluids,
• helps strengthen the kidneys and calm the mind.
• is a dual direction herb, meaning that it can be used both to stimulate or sedate the central nervous system (CNS).

As a nervous system stimulant, it increases reflex responses and improves mental alertness. In this formula, Chinese herbalists harness its inhibitory effects on the CNS. Based on evaluations, this CNS inhibition mechanism may be related to an effect on dopaminergic receptors.

Insomnia due to Liver Stagnation and Heat

The final pattern of insomnia that we will explore is insomnia due to too much stress. In this situation, there will be a constant exposure to stress, which will then cause agitation in the nervous system, leading to heat in both the liver and the heart. Patients exhibit irritability, anxiety and have difficulty falling asleep.

The way that the body adapts and responds to stress is closely related to the way that qi moves through the body, so high stress would be diagnosed as qi stagnation.

In Chinese medicine, the Liver is the primary organ that works on the smooth flow of qi throughout the body, so this type of insomnia is identified as a type of liver qi stagnation. Additionally, irritability is often a sign of heat in the liver, or an agitated nervous system. Finally, anxiety is often attributed to heat in the heart and in this case there is excess heat both in the liver and the heart. The classic remedy for this situation is the formula known as Suan Zao Ren Tang.

The Suan Zao Ren Tang formula:

• Suan Zao Ren (Zizyphi Spinosae Semen) – Sour Jujube Seed
• Fu Ling (Poria) – Hoelen
• Chuan Xiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma) – Szechuan Lovage Root
• Zhi Mu (Anemarrhenae Rhizoma) – Anemarrhena Root
• Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) – Licorice Root

In this formula, Suan Zao Ren is the key ingredient to nourish the Heart and the Liver and give the nervous system more resources to deal with stress and relax into sleep.

Chuan Xiong is traditionally used to invigorate the blood but here plays a key role in pacifying the liver and enhancing cerebral circulation. Zhi Mu is a great herb to clear the heat associated with anxiety and irritability. Fu Ling and Gan Cao are tonic herbs for the Heart.

Chuan Xiong is widely used to regulate blood flow in the body and has an active constituent called Ligustrazine which can:

• dilate cerebral blood vessels,
• reduce vascular resistance,
• significantly increase blood flow to the brain and body, and
• improve microcirculation

Chuan Xiong and other herbs that invigorate circulation are particularly helpful for patients who have trouble falling asleep because of headaches, muscle tension or jaw tension.

This simple Suan Zao Ren Tang formula also combines well with other relaxation and stress relief herbs, both Eastern and Western.

Want better sleep?

If you’re:

• having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep,
• not feeling fully rested upon waking,
• interested in alternatives to pharmaceutical sleep aids, then

… consider Chinese herbal medicine. Our clinic includes a full Chinese herbal pharmacy and our licensed herbalist prepare custom herbal formulations for your particular combination of symptoms and conditions.

also check Acupuncture Cupping Massage therapy for Insomnia.

Book an Appointment with our Therapists online Now

Or Call Oriental Acupuncture Clinic today at 416-800-3978

to set up your first appointment!

Healing from the root, beyond treating symptoms.

So you can experience greater health and well-being!

With our Therapists 25+ years clinical experience,

you will feel the difference.

Acupuncture and Herbs for Menopausal Syndrome

Menopause is one of the most significant events in a woman's life and brings in a number of physiological changes that affect the life of a woman, menopause bleeding, insomnia, hot flashes, night sweats, dizziness, tingling, nausea, pain, anxiety, depression etc. Women between 45 to 55 years old might experience these health conditions or issues.

Many people are not aware that acupuncture and Oriental medicine have enjoyed a rich and extensive history in treating the gamut of female health concerns, from PMS to dysmenorrhea to infertility to postpartum issues. Menopause is another dimension of female health that can be extremely difficult for women, as hot flashes and night sweats can cause unbearable discomfort. 

Fortunately, acupuncture and herbs are an excellent options for menopausal women, as they offer safe, noninvasive, and effective treatment for these often debilitating symptoms. Menopause is a time where many women become yin deficient, meaning that the cooling, moistening, and calming aspects of their physiology are weakening. As a result, they often get hot, irritated, anxious, and can’t sleep as well. The main treatment principle for menopausal women involves nourishing yin with acupuncture and herbs.

Acupuncture is considered to be a cooling therapy. The stainless steel needles that are used during treatment are said to disperse Qi. This means that they are unblocking energy that has become blocked or stuck. When energy gets blocked for too long, it generates heat which will burn yin and lead to yin deficiency. Many women patients said that they felt cooler right after the needles were put in. The needles are actually deflating certain areas that have become overheated and compressed. Certain points are also used that have a direct effect on nourishing yin, thereby rejuvenating the cooling aspects of one’s physiology.

Chinese herbs work synergistically with acupuncture to create a state of continuity in clearing heat and nourishing yin between treatments. We would highly recommend committing to this approach before using hormone therapy, as these natural options are free of side effects. Hormone therapy is quite controversial in terms of its long-term effects. While it has worked wonders for many women in the short-term, when I hear references to increased incidence of ovarian cancer, fibrocystic breasts, and emotional fluctuations, we cannot give it a raving endorsement.

 Below is a list of several Chinese herbal formulas that are used to treat hot flashes and night sweats:

Zhi bai di huang wan/temper fire: This is probably the most popular Chinese herbal formula for hot flashes. It is considered a kidney yin tonic that clears fire from the kidneys. Other symptoms would be low back pain, scanty dark urine, and low energy. It is safe, gentle, and can work miracles if it matches well with the patient’s constitution.

Jia wei xiao yao wan/free and easy wanderer plus: This formula addresses hot flashes that are due to a liver depressive heat pattern which would include symptoms such as irritability, high stress, red eyes, headaches, and indigestion.

Da bu yin wan: This formula is for a pattern called ‘steaming bone syndrome’ in which the hot flashes feel as if they are penetrating into the depths of one’s bones. It is a kidney yin tonic that utilizes herbs that penetrate deep into the body to clear heat.

Tian wan bu xin dan/celestial emperor’s teapill: This formula is for a combination of heart and kidney yin deficiency, which will manifest with symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, thirst, and malar flush.

Er xian tang: This formula is for a mixed pattern of kidney yin and yang deficiency. Symptoms include a history of feeling cold with recent onset of hot flashes, low libido, fatigue, and low back pain.

Hot flashes and night sweats tend to respond very well to treatment with acupuncture and herbs. It is important to keep in mind that these symptoms often have an underlying emotional component that needs to be addressed before they will disappear. It is natural to feel heightened emotions as you go about healing this condition with acupuncture and herbs. We highly recommend seeking out the help of a qualified healthcare professional if you are interested in using herbs for hot flashes and night sweats. Many patients have said things like, ‘I heard that black cohosh is good for hot flashes, but it never worked for me.’ It is important to keep in mind that herbs will only work if they address your specific constitutional needs. These needs are assessed by examining the tongue, palpating the pulse, and matching these findings with one’s symptoms. In this way, a much more specific and accurate diagnosis and treatment is formulated that will more likely optimize the benefits for the patient. The licensed and experienced Traditional Chinese Practitioner(R.TCMP) at Oriental Acupuncture Clinic will customize the herbal formula which is tailored for your unique needs.

Or Call Oriental Acupuncture Clinic today 

at 416-800-3978 to set up your first appointment!

Healing from the root, 

beyond treating symptoms.

So you can experience 

greater health and well-being!

5 TCM Key Tips for Weight Loss for long term

Approximately half a million Canadians are overweight. 34% of our country is obese, which means that one is over 20 pounds his or her optimal weight. The vast majority of overweight people have been on a variety of diets and regimens. It is quite common to experience initial success on diets. Unfortunately, the good results are usually temporary and eventually spiral into the same or a higher weight than we were at prior to the diet. This cycle can continue through life, which leaves many people feeling disempowered, cynical, and depressed about their ability to maintain an optimal weight. In our practice, we have helped many people lose weight and keep it off. This is because we educate our patients that they are NEVER to diet again. Instead, what they need to do is find a healthy way to eat that truly works for them and then stick with it as long as they live.

The problem with dieting is that we think it’s OK to revert to the way we were eating after the diet is over. Dieting implies a short period of time in which we use will power to shed weight, only to return to our old ways sooner or later. At the end of the diet we usually say, ‘phew, I’m glad that’s over!’ This mindset is undoubtedly a form of self-sabotage. As our bodies become accustomed to losing weight and eating different foods on the diet, they easily go into a state of shock once the old foods are reintroduced. Our metabolism will eventually shut down altogether if we abuse ourselves by repeatedly gaining and losing large amounts of weight.

We also know that there simply is no magic bullet for losing weight. There is no pill that will effortlessly make the weight melt off. Having a healthy body takes work; there is no way around that. The key is to have a healthy relationship with ourselves so we can make changes that are not based on will power. We have to learn how to enjoy taking care of ourselves. We have to find the balance between immediate gratification and harsh discipline. This means that we are proactive about our health; we aren’t using food to beat ourselves up or to take away the pain in our lives. Instead, our food choices reflect a very strong commitment that we have made to ourselves to heal our bodies and minds with nutrition. Every one of us is entitled to this relationship with food and it is definitely possible. We can actually enjoy the hard work it takes to live well.

The truth is that we will never have the body we want until we are educated about making the right choices with food, healing the underlying emotional imbalances that make us crave unhealthy foods, and generally make a commitment to achieving optimal health. Let’s take a look at each of these in closer detail:

1) Making the right choices with food:

This means becoming informed about nutrition. There has to be a basic understanding of the effects of various foods on our health if we are to use food as medicine. (And that is what we are getting at, using food to heal ourselves rather than as poison). Our knowledge of food must go beyond, ‘eat your fruits and vegetables.’ Here are a few basic guidelines for getting your on track with your food choices. This advice is simple to follow and will drastically change your food choices:

• Eat organic foods-- If you aren’t already doing so, start shopping at your local health food store for the majority of your daily meals. Yes, it is a bit more expensive, but you have to look at this as an investment in your health. 95% of the foods that you buy over the counter at regular grocery stores have no nutritional value whatsoever. Instead, many conventional foods are pumped with additives, refined sugar, herbicides and pesticides, genetically modified ingredients, transfats, and hormones. Do you really want these kinds of things in your body? Shopping at your health food store will drastically reduce your intake of these unhelpful additives. Organic foods have much more nutritional value.
• Try to eat mostly whole foods-- Eat foods in their natural state. Fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, chicken, grains, etc. are all examples of whole foods.
• Reduce your intake of refined sugar and carbohydrates--- These are the foods that will make the weight pile on. Muffins, pasta, cereal, white rice, candy, soda, bread, bagels, etc. are the culprits in weight gain and water retention.
• Drink 6-9 glasses of filtered water daily-- Hunger pangs are often a sign of dehydration. Reach for water before you reach for food.
• Eat a big breakfast and a small dinner. Eat whole food snacks every 2-3 hours throughout the day.

2) Healing Our Emotions and Food Cravings:

Food is definitely a drug for many of us. To make it worse, it is a socially accepted drug, which means that it seems OK because everyone around us is indulging, so why shouldn’t we? We are surrounded by images of food all around us. The marketing gurus for major food corporations are masters at making us feel deprived if we don’t indulge our desires for immediate gratification. Many of us are overweight because we use food to fill an emotional void. Our deeper needs in life are not being satisfied and we don’t know how to nourish ourselves appropriately. Healing our relationship with food is often dependent upon our ability to satisfy ourselves in our work and relationships, Many people turn to food when their sexual life is either non-existent or dissatisfying. When we are engaged with our lives and know how to handle the various stresses that come with adult responsibilities, then we will not turn to food compulsively. We will discuss how to go about healing ourselves in these ways in a bit.

3) Making a Commitment to Optimal Health:

Most of us are conditioned into believing that other things in life are more of a priority than our health. We only make our health a priority when we experience symptoms that alert us to the fact that something is wrong. Committing to optimal health means that our health becomes one of the top priorities in our lives right NOW, even if we feel fine. This means taking the time to eat nutritious foods, exercise, and keep stress at bay with techniques such as meditation or yoga. When we make this commitment and truly live by it, our weight will naturally be more balanced. This commitment is can only be genuine if we deeply respect and value ourselves.

Achieving optimal health and a balanced weight entails having the same relationship with exercise as we do with food. Both nutrition and exercise must be key elements to our daily lifestyle. We recommend exercising 20 minutes a day, 5 days per week for those of you just starting out. Just as there is a way to eat that is both healthy and enjoyable, there is also a way to exercise that we can commit to for the long-term. Your main strategy should be to experiment with all forms of exercise until you find something you really like. This doesn’t mean that it will be easy, but it certainly can be enjoyable. If we don’t have a basic enjoyment for exercise, then the only way to get through it is by using will power, which will run out sooner or later. Many people find that exercising in community is much better for them than exercising alone. I prefer tennis and yoga. I have been doing both for years and I know that they will be in my life forever, simply because I love both of them. Everybody loves something, you just have to find what it is and do it regularly.

4)Herbs and Supplements

As we know, there are no magic bullets for weight loss. There are, however, very helpful adjuncts to weight loss that can certainly speed the process along. Below are a few products we use in our practice (these can only be purchased through licensed professionals):

• Lotus Leaf Tablets: Also by 7 Forests, this is a strong herbal formula for weight loss.
• EndoTrim: Made by Designs for Health, combines a variety of antioxidants and extracts to help convert fat into muscle and stabilize the blood sugar.
• Crave Arrest: Also by Designs for Health, this product is excellent for sugar and carbohydrate cravings.
• 5 htp: A natural precursor to serotonin, 5 htp is used for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and carbohydrate cravings.
• There are also many acupuncture points and protocols that reduce cravings, stimulate metabolism, reduce water retention, and optimize digestion.
  

  
  

  
  

  

  
  

5) Acupuncture or Cupping Treatments
We typically recommend to our patients make it a goal to lose 1-3 pounds per week as they transition to a whole foods diet, increased exercise, and the combination of acupuncture,take 2 times acupuncture treatments per week regularly, with our acupuncturists (both female or male acupuncturist)and TCM herbalist over 25 years clinical experience, most patients can expect to drop 10 to 30 lbs after 10 sessions acupuncture treatment. This may not seem like a lot compared to crash dieting, but it certainly is a more balanced and holistic health approach. It may take 1-2 years to lose all the weight you’d like, but the odds are that you will keep it off if you do it in a gradual and balanced way. This is not a diet; it is living and being healthy forever.

     Also check the blog about Cupping Makes Weight Loss Easy

Or Call Oriental Acupuncture Clinic today 

at 416-800-3978 to set up your first appointment!

Healing from the root, 

beyond treating symptoms.

So you can experience 

greater health and well-being!

Cupping Therapy Takes The Pain Away

Summer time is best season to treat 

• Arthritis, Rheumatism, Sciaitca etc.
• Common cold, asthma, bronchitis, and allergies etc. respiratory Problem

Our TCM therapists always saying that " Treat Winter diseases in Summer hot season" ,it heals faster...the coldness & wetness inside the body will be easier to be taken out by acupuncture,cupping or moxibustion. Qi flows better in summer.

(from CBS news) Cupping is a form of alternative pain therapy that recently left some curious marks on actress and new mom Gwyneth Paltrow. The mystery behind the circular marks on Paltrow’s back is solved by Michael Gaeta, president of the Acupuncture Society of New York, who describes the therapy on The Early Show. 

He demonstrates the cupping therapy on the back of one of his patients, who was lying on a treatment table. 

“There are two forms of cupping therapy,” Gaeta tells co-anchor Harry Smith. “Cupping therapy is a treatment in which the practitioner creates suction in a cup. And then applies that cup to the body, which then draws the skin up around the cup, under the cup.” 

The traditional method uses fire. Gaeta holds a cotton ball and wets it with alcohol. Then ignites the soaked cotton ball and places it in the cup. 

He says, “Fire cupping uses a flame to create suction in the cup - you’ll see a flame in the cup - and then, we’ll apply the cup to the body.” 

The skin gets sucked up and rises under the cup as blood rushes up. 

“Cupping brings fresh blood to the area, Gaeta says. “So it tends to improve circulation. It also helps open up the chest and benefit the lungs and can even benefit menstrual problems and digestive problems, too. Most commonly, it’s used for aches and pains of various types as well as respiratory problems, cough, wheezing, things like that.” 

“It feels a bit strange,” the patient says. “Definitely doesn’t hurt. It just feels like someone’s pulling at your skin.” 

Gaeta notes, “Cupping therapy is usually used as part of acupuncture or body work treatment. It’s been part of Chinese medicine for over 2,500 years. Originally, animal horn was the original cup. The horn method is the original thing. Later on brass, ceramic, bamboo cups were used.” 

It looks like something out of medieval alchemy, but Gaeta says, it is just an alternate method of treatment. 

He adds, “Fire cupping is the traditional, most effective method. Some practitioners choose to use the suction cup method, where you pump up the suction cup and that’s it. Same kind of thing - just doesn’t use flame.” 

There are very few conditions in which cupping should not be used, such as high fever, skin disease or tendency to bleed easily. 

Each cupping session last about 10 to 15 minutes and it can be repeated, once the marks are cleared, until the problem is resolved, Gaeta says. To get a treatment, he says, seek a licensed acupuncturist. ( by CBS news)

Acupuncture for varicose veins - natural cures and remedies

Up to 30% of people can be affected by varicose veins which is where the veins  have become large, swollen and twisted. The most common place for them to appear is on the calves and behind the knees and are due to damaged or weakened valves. There is often a familial pattern and though varicose veins don’t always cause severe pain, people dislike their appearance and some seek surgery to rectify the problem. Many people just simply put up with the cramps and heavy leg sensation.

Actually there are a number of different ways to prevent and treat varicose veins, ranging from expensive surgeries to using natural essential oils. Before turning to irritating prescription creams or expensive laser surgeries — which aren’t always effective and should really be considered last-resort options — it’s a good idea to try Acupuncture for varicose veins and other natural cures and  remedies first to lower the visibility of bulging veins without much risk involved.

Natural Varicose Veins Treatment

Treatment options for varicose veins range from  medications, compression stockings, lifestyle changes to minimally invasive (e.g.,sclerotherapy or endoluminal ablation), to invasive (surgical techniques), to hybrid (combination of ≥1 therapies).

A 2007 report published in the Journal of the Royal College of Surgeons of England found that nerve injuries following varicose vein surgeries are common and that more than half the patients treated will develop some recurrent varicose sites within 10 years of surgery.

Varicose veins are always a symptom of an underlying venous insufficiency disorder. This is true whether or not you experiences other symptoms like pain and swelling. If you visit a dermatologist or doctor to talk about treatment options, you’ll likely be advised to make certain lifestyle modifications first, before surgery or other treatments are even considered. These can greatly help decrease blood pooling in your veins, while also offering many other perks, like more energy, clearer skin, better heart health and improved digestion. And the best part is that natural remedies pose little to no risk and are far less expensive than surgeries too.

Here are some natural treatments for varicose veins:

1. Exercise

Regularly getting exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve blood flow and lower inflammation, which you can add to the extensive list of exercise benefits. 

2. Maintaining a Healthy Weight

People who are overweight are more likely to develop varicose veins, especially overweight women and elderly people. Carrying excess body weight puts higher amounts of pressure on your veins and can contribute to inflammation or reflux, especially in the largest superficial veins, such as the saphenous vein in the legs.

3. Somaderm Gel  for Balancing Hormones:

     This homeopathic medicine(NDC# 61877-0007-1) has been demonstrated to increase human growth hormone naturally, one of the health benefit is balancing our hormones. Learn more.

4. An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Certain foods help reverse inflammation and improve blood flow, making it possible to heal varicose veins faster and prevent future ones from forming. A poor diet — high in things like trans fats, sugar, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods — can contribute to arterial damage, low circulation, blood pressure problems, hormonal imbalances and weight gain. Many of these foods are also high-sodium foods, which is dehydrating, and contain toxins that can worsen swelling in varicose veins.

Some of the best anti-inflammatory foods for reducing the appearance of varicose veins include:

• High-fiber foods — Fiber helps improve heart health and is also necessary for healthy digestive functions. Eating 30–40 grams of fiber every day is a great way to prevent constipation, which can cause bloating and increased pressure on the veins around the abdomen and legs. High-fiber foods to eat include chia seeds and flaxseeds, (which are also omega-3 foods, which are anti-inflammatory), vegetables, fresh fruit, and soaked/sprouted legumes and ancient grains.
• High-antioxidant foods — Antioxidants, such as flavonoids (present in berries), vitamin C and vitamin E (both present in green veggies and citrus fruits), help strengthen veins, fight inflammation and improve arterial health. Vitamin E is known to help prevent blood clots, acts like a natural blood thinner and is tied to heart health. Vitamin C is a powerful anti-inflammatory and beneficial for skin health.
• Natural diuretics — Doctors sometimes use diuretic pills to help increase urination and reduce water retention or swelling. You can get the same effect safely by consuming things like fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil), fennel, dandelion greens, cucumber, asparagus and celery.
• Magnesium-rich foods — Blood pooling , blood pressure problems and leg cramps (like restless leg syndrome) are warning signs of deficiencies in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. To overcome these symptoms, increase intake of things like leafy greens, avocado, bananas, cruciferous veggies and sweet potatoes.
• Spicy foods — Foods with spices such as cayenne pepper or curry help heat up the body and get blood flowing, adding to healthy circulation and even appetite/weight control.
• Wild-caught fish — Fish and seafood like wild salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and tuna provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for proper blood flow.
• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) — ACV improves circulation in the vein walls and is an effective anti-inflammatory. Many people find that using ACV along with witch hazel on varicose veins helps lower swelling and and improves their appearance within just a few weeks.

5.  Natural Herbs Including Bilberry and Horse Chestnut

Bilberry and horse chestnut, two plants that are thousands of years old and popular folk remedies, have been found to be both effective and safe for treating varicose veins. Both have been studied for chronic venous insufficiency that causes pain, ankle swelling, feelings of heaviness, itching and nighttime leg cramping. They’re also beneficial for lowering water retention, circulatory problems, swelling, diarrhea, PMS cramps and other skin-related conditions.

6. Regular Acupuncture treatment or bloodletting therapy improve the blood circulation

The color of the veins is usually blue to dark purple and this color is very significant according to traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis.

Purple and bluish veins indicate that the body system is being affected by a traditional diagnostic concept known as “Blood Stasis”.

There is saying in Chinese medical texts dating back hundreds of years that says “Blood stasis is the cause of all problems and blood stasis complicates all conditions”.

The term blood stasis includes symptoms like varicose veins, spider veins and thick dry skin such as on the heel as well as fixed stabbing pains that could be anywhere in the body. Ancient Chinese physicians understood the concept of blood flow and the relationship of blood vessels to the heart hundreds of years before the US medical physician William Harvey wrote about blood circulation.

Many people believe that acupuncture is limited to treat nerve and pain syndromes. It then comes as a surprise to people to learn that acupuncture can help with blood circulation problems such as chest pain from heart disease, varicose veins, Raynaud’s disease and diabetes related peripheral neuropathy.

Ancient Chinese physicians even understood the connection between the lungs and heart and their relationship with oxygen exchange. A special acupuncture point on the wrist, known as tai yuan, Lung 9, was allocated the special role of being the meeting acupuncture point of all blood vessels. It can be used to treat all problems with blood vessels including varicose veins and heart pain.

Other acupuncture points on the leg such as the one called “sea of blood”, Spleen 10, is used to increase circulation of blood when it is suspected of being “stuck” as in blood stasis.

More and more people are seeking alternatives like acupuncture to treat varicose veins instead of surgery. This is because too many operations have been unsuccessful and left people dissatisfied and the word gets around. Getting surgery on veins is like shutting the gate after the horse has bolted”

7. Foot bath with Chinese herbs: Dangui(当归）、Honghua(红花）、Niuqi(牛膝)、 Cuanqiong(川芎) Ginger(姜）

By Oriental Acupuncture Clinic

Acupuncture: A great Choice for Anxiety

Every year, new studies show that anxiety among otherwise healthy men and women is on the rise. While a small amount of anxiety every once in a while is normal, persistent anxiety is a serious problem – it affects behaviors, it creates stress, and it hurts your overall quality of life.

Some of the solutions to anxiety are simple. Exercise, for example, is an important first step. More and more people are working in careers that involve little physical activity, and that inactivity creates misplaced energy that can turn into stress and anxiety.

But if basic lifestyle changes don’t work, and you find that your anxiety continues to impact your life, the solutions become more complicated. Pharmaceutical medications should generally be avoided, because in addition to their addictive properties and dangerous side effects, they also only numb the issue temporarily. Once you stop taking the medications the anxiety comes back; potentially stronger than ever. In addition, while several therapies exist, these solutions are generally prohibitively expensive for the modern family. It’s for these reasons that acupuncture is such a good option as an anxiety treatment.
          

Reasons to Consider Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an affordable, safe, non-addictive and effective way to treat anxiety. It has none of the side effects of modern medications, and has been used for centuries as a way of curing mental health issues and other health symptoms.

What makes acupuncture so effective, however, is the following:

• Anxiety Points

First and foremost, there are several points that an acupuncturist can target that are designed to counter your anxiety. Acupuncturists place needles in the GV20, He5, and other points in order to balance your chi and help your body cope with anxiety. Each of these points has been tested by generations of practitioners for the past thousands of years, and is known to have a profound effect on the way you experience anxiety.

• Tangential Points

Anxiety is not usually caused by any one issue, which is why when you really want to reduce anxiety you need to do more than simply place needles at anxiety reduction points. You also need to place needles in areas that may relate to stress, health, and other issues that could, in theory, contribute to further anxiety in the future.

•  Accompanying Lifestyle Changes

Acupuncture is also not considered a standalone treatment. Those that use it combine the effective techniques with anxiety reduction herbs, a healthier diet and lifestyle, and more. Because anxiety can be caused by so many different aspects of a person’s life, and because it’s so important to approach anxiety reduction from a more holistic manner, this type of treatment is underrated as a potential option for anxiety sufferers.

Choosing Acupuncture as an Anxiety Option

Those that suffer from anxiety need to depend on natural treatments if possible, because modern medicine is simply too addictive with too many side effects to make it worthwhile. Since anxiety represents such an important factor in a person’s short and long term happiness, it’s also important that you select an option that is effective right away, and lasts long enough to help create real changes in your quality of life. Acupuncture from a reputable acupuncturist has the potential to do just that, and should be considered by those looking for natural treatment options.

Call Oriental Acupuncture Clinic at 416-800-3978 to set up your first appointment!  With our therapists more than 25 years CLINICAL EXPERIENCE, you will feel the difference.

TCM formulas for stroke and Bell Palsy recovery

TYPHONIUM RHIZOME

Also known as Typhonium Rhizome or Rhizoma Typhonii, it refers to the tuber of Du Jiao Lian (Typhonium giganteum Engl.), which is a perennial plant of the family Araceae.This herb is collected during Autumn, fibrous roots and skin off, washed clean, fumigated with sulphur, and dried in the sun.

Zhi Fu Zi refers to Prepared Aconite Root, which is the lateral root of rhizome of Chinese monkshood. It is acrid, sweet and hot in nature. Thanks for its excellent functions on restoring devastated yang, assisting yang to supplement fire, and dispersing cold to stop pain, it is hailed as The king of Warming Herbs. But Fu Zi (Aconite Root) is considered poisonous and need to be used with extreme care. It should be avoided for pregnant women and those of hyperactivity of yang due to yin deficiency group. In addition, it contradicts to Ban Xia (Pinellia Rhizome), Gua Lou (Trichosanthes Fruit), Bei Mu (Fritillaria Bulb), Bai Lian (Radix Ampelopsis Japonicae), and Bai Ji (Bletilla Rhizome).

WHAT'S TYPHONIUM RHIZOME USED FOR? 
It is acrid, sweet and hot in nature. Please also note that it is poisonous. It involves with channels of stomach and liver. It is capable of expelling wind-phlegm, arresting convulsion, relieving toxicity, dissipating nodules, and stopping pain. Regular uses and indications include stroke, Bell's Palsy, tetanus, Migraine, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rheumatic Arthritis, spasm, crewels, and snake bite, etc. Regular dosage is from 3 to 6 grams in decoction, and 0.5 to 1 grams in powder.

NATURAL BEAUTY EFFECT 
Besides above-mentioned main functions, this herb is able to remove melanoma. This method is very simple to follow too. Grinding into powder, mix with honey, plaster on a paper and then mask them on your face before sleeping. Combining with the appropriate sun block in the daytime, the result will be better. "Ben Cao Jing Shu" ever said that it is dry and ascending in nature, which makes it positive among so many wind herbs. Ascending is the nature of wind. Combined with its dispersing and acrid nature for clearing damp, its medicinal momentum reaches the top and covers all conditions on face.

FORMULAS FOR STROKE AND BELL'S PALSY RECOVERY  
From the TCM point of view, the causes of stroke lies in long-term Qi-blood deficiency and yin yang imbalance in heart, liver and kidney, which blocks the normal circulation of Qi and blood. Due to lacking of moistening and nourishing, the liver-yang rise suddenly and sharply, which makes for the occurring of wind. Thus blood rampages through the channels along with reversed flow of Qi, phlegm, and fire.

Bai Fu Zi is hardly limited only for stroke and Bell's Palsy recovery. Actually it is widely used in the treatments of Zhong Feng, which refers to stoke and patterns hit by wind pathogen. When stroke and Bell's Palsy are involves, it is wind that is the main culprit from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). So, to cure similar diseases, expelling wind would be the immediate task to be deal with.
Modern pharmacological research reveals that this herb can be used as calcium channel blockers, bradycardic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Clinically it is widely used for treating Epilepsy, cerebral thrombosis, and unknown migraines. One of representative formula to treat stroke and sequelae is Zhong Feng Hui Chun Wan, which is a Chinese patent medicine. Main symptoms and signs are insensible feeling of hands and skins, Facial Paralysis (Bell's Palsy), babble, slobbering, and Hemiplegia.
Herbs used in Zhong Feng Hui Chun Wan include Dang Gui (Dong Quai), Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Root), Hong Hua (Safflower Flower), Tao Ren (Peach Seed), Ji Xue Teng (Millettia Vine), Tu Bie Chong (Wingless Cockroach), Jiang Can (Silkworm), Dan Shen (Red Sage Root), Mu Gua (Chaenomeles Fruit), Ren Dong Teng (Honeysuckle Stem), Di Long (Earthworm), Chong Wei Zi (Semen leonuri), Chuan Niu Xi (Szechuan Achyranthes Root), Quan Xie (Scorpion), Wu Gong (Centipede), Shen Jin Cao (Clubmoss), Wei Ling Xian (Clematis Root), Luo Shi Teng (Star Jasmine Stem), and Jin Qian Bai Hua Se (Agkistrodon).

Tailor-Made At Oriental Acupuncture Clinic, our registered TCM practitioner will customize your diagnosis based on syndrome differentiation and customize prescriptions to meet specific needs of your condition.

Quality Guarantee We use only natural medicines Certified by GMP, recognized by Health Canada and most NPN numbers. We guarantee our TCM product of unsurpassed quality. Natural and Pure with no addition of other material, western medicine nor usage of r-Ray to kill bacteria.

6 TCM Treatment Principles and Tips for Stress-related Conditions

Stress is an inevitable part of life. In TCM, stress affects the free flow of Qi within the body, resulting in stagnation, excessive internal Heat and poor Blood circulation. Excessive and prolonged stress may impede the delicate balance in our body and trigger severe health problems.

The most common manifestations of stress include sleeping disorders, anxiety disorders, headaches, fatigue, indigestion, restlessness, hypertension, acne, poor or excessive appetite, decrease in sexual ability, and a desire for sweets and dessert. In some cases, long-term stress can also lead to weight loss or weight gain problems.

Stress & Digestive Health

 Stress tends to impede the flow of Qi, which would affect the Spleen's functions. Consequently, the transformation and transportation of digested food will be affected, and this will lead to an accumulation of internal dampness. In time, problems such as weight gain may develop.

Stress & Shoulder Tension

 Shoulder tension is caused by factors ranging from continuous mechanical strain, a lack of exercise, improper posture while working or sleeping, and emotional stress.

When stress builds up and the Liver-Qi flow is impeded, the shoulder muscles will tighten and become rigid. Tension in the shoulders leads to shoulder pain, neck pain and even headaches.

General Treatment Principles and Tips for Stress-related Conditions

 TCM is effective in relieving stress through acupuncture, herbal medicine and/or massage therapy. It is important to note that treatments must be customised according to each unique body constitution.

• Ensure the free flow of Liver-Qi

In TCM, the Liver helps to regulate our emotions. When the flow of Liver-Qi is interrupted, emotional disturbances such as depression, frustration, anger, mood swings may occur. Thus, it is important to ensure the smooth flow of Liver-Qi in the treatment of stress-related conditions.

For decades, TCM physicians have been prescribing Xiao Yao San (逍遥散), which is believed to have stress-relieving properties. The prescription comprises Hare’s Ear Root (Chaihu, 柴胡), Chinese Angelica (Danggui, 当归), Peppermint (Bohe, 薄荷), White Atractylodes (Baizhu, 白术) and Poria (Fuling, 茯苓).

Common herbs that promote the flow of Qi include Perilla Stem (Zisugeng 紫苏梗), Hawthorne Berry (Shanzha, 山楂), Lingzhi (灵芝), Cnidium (Chuanxiong, 川芎), Turmeric Root (Yujin, 郁金), Tangerine Peel (Chenpi, 陈皮) and Prepared Fleeceflower Root (Zhishouwu, 制首乌).

Tonics that contain Eucommia Bark (Duzhong, 杜仲), Glossy Privet Fruit (Nvzhenzi, 女贞子), Eclipta (Mohanlian, 墨旱莲), Black Sesame (Heizhima, 黑芝麻) and Himalayan Teasel Root (Xuduan, 续断) are useful for invigorating the Liver.

Acupuncture treatments may aid in re-energising our body circulation, particularly in the circulation of stagnant Liver-Qi.

• Eliminate internal Heat or fire

Late nights and irregular eating habits can put us under intense stress. The untreated stagnation of Liver-Qi will generate internal fire, which may travel upwards to the head region and disturb our sleeping process, suppress our appetite, or cause other disharmonies.

In these cases, treatments usually focus on clearing our internal fire to restore balance. Tian Wang Bu Xin Wan (天王补心丸) is one of the ancient prescriptions that can supplement the Yin and remove internal fire to relieve stress. Herbs such as Foxglove Root (Shengdi, 生地), Asparagus Root (Tiandong, 天冬), Chinese Magnoliavine Fruit (Wuweizi, 五味子), Chinese Gentian (Longdancao, 龙胆草), Salvia Root (Danshen, 丹参), Figwort Root (Xuanshen, 玄参) and Anemarrhena (Zhimu, 知母) help in clearing internal fire.

• Calm the Mind (Shen)

When the Mind is relaxed, the body will return to its harmonious state.

Acupuncture is one of the most effective treatments for stress. It helps by calming the Mind and relaxing the muscles.

Chinese herbs that also help to calm the Mind are Biota Seed (Baiziren, 柏子仁), Poria (Fuling, 茯苓), Oyster Shell (Muli, 牡蛎), Thinleaf Milkwort Root (Yuanzhi, 远志), Chinese Magnoliavine Fruit (Wuweizi, 五味子), American Ginseng (HuaQishen, 花旗参), Longan Fruit (Longyanrou, 龙眼肉) and Lily Bulb (Baihe, 百合).

• Nourish the Heart

In Huang Di Nei Jing (The Emperor's Inner Canon), the Heart is said to be the master of Zang-fu organs, the ruler of the Mind or spirit (Shen) and the seat of consciousness and intelligence. The health of the Heart affects the Shen and can in turn lead to emotional disturbances such as anxiety, insomnia and palpitations. Therefore, it is important to maintain Heart health to sustain emotional balance.

Biota Seeds is one of the Chinese herbs that nourishes the Heart. It is commonly used to treat insomnia accompanied by fidgetiness and palpitations, night sweating, as well as constipation. Other herbs that benefit the Heart’s functions include Longan Fruit (Longyanrou, 龙眼肉), Lotus Seeds (Lianzi, 莲子), Lotus Root (Lianou, 莲藕), Chinese Magnoliavine Fruit (Wuweizi, 五味子), Tortoise Carapace and Plastron (Guijia, 龟甲).

Heart Tonifying Soup (Yang Xin Tang, 养心汤) and Suan Zao Ren Tang (酸枣仁汤) are tonic soups that nourish the Heart, soothe the nerves and calm the Mind.

Acupuncture and massages on the head and foot may help to enhance the Heart’s functions too.

• Replenish the Blood to the Heart

Various ingredients can be added into our daily diet to replenish the Blood to the Heart, such as Lotus Seeds (Lianzi, 莲子), Lotus Root (Lianou, 莲藕), Lily Bulbs (Baihe, 百合), Longan Fruits (Longyanrou, 龙眼肉), Red Dates (Hongzhao, 红枣), Codonopsis Root (Dangshen, 党参), Chinese Angelica (Danggui, 当归) and Poria (Fuling, 茯苓).

• Exercise to improve Qi and Blood circulation

Exercise helps to unblock the flow of Qi and Blood, and minimise the effects of stress on our mind and body. Tai Chi, yoga, and other forms of exercise that focus on breathing and meditation also help to move Qi. These exercises also help in calming the Mind and promoting relaxation.

Find out why acupuncture is a great choice for anxiety and depression 

Looking for reputable and experienced acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, feel free to call Oriental Acupuncture clinic at 416-800-3988 or book an appointment online.