Digestive disorders can be simple like flatulence or gas, or they can be much more serious, such as Crohn’s disease. But regardless of the severity of the disease, there is no doubt digestive disorders affect far more people than they should, especially in the United States. A recent survey reports nearly 74 percent of all Americans are living with digestive issues. Most people don’t report it to their doctors either, because they assume it is normal to have gas, bloating or abdominal pain. But these symptoms can be indicators of much more serious underlying problems.

The gut is also the “second brain” of the body. When there are problems in the gastrointestinal tract, it can manifest mentally as well as physically. The enteric nervous system, our gut/second brain, is composed of more than 100 million nerve cells that line the gastrointestinal tract from the esophagus to the rectum. The ENS can trigger emotional shifts experienced by those suffering from gastrointestinal issues. But what science is also discovering is that emotional problems can also trigger issues in the ENS. It’s a two-way street and if one is out of whack, then the other may be also.  

There are ways we can help our gastrointestinal tract and digestion, though. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system that has been around for thousands of years, and it focuses on treating the person holistically, meaning every part is addressed at once instead of individually. TCM uses modalities like acupuncture, acupressure, herbs, formulas and nutrition to treat each patient. Here are some herbs used frequently in TCM to help with digestion and gastrointestinal issues.

Dandelion or Pu Gong Ying

This herb has been used for millennia for liver and digestive problems. It is used specifically for its diuretic properties. Pu Gong Ying promotes healthy digestive functioning and unlike pharmaceuticals used as diuretics, this herb actually restores potassium rather than depleting it.

Hawthorn Berry or Shan Zha

Shan Zha is a great herb to have on hand after those big family dinners, like Thanksgiving. This herb works to remove food stagnation in the digestive tract, and it works especially well on meats and fats that are harder to digest.

Orange Peel or Chen Pi

One of the best herbs around for regulating the whole digestive system. It is used for spleen and stomach issues in TCM, including nausea, belching, vomiting, abdominal distention and pain. Due to its bitter flavor, it can also drain dampness that may cause loose stools.

Ginger or Sheng Jiang

Ginger is a great digestive herb, as well as a warming spice that helps the circulatory system. It is a natural remedy for heartburn and nausea. It also helps expel gasses from the gastrointestinal tract.

Peppermint

While not formerly used in TCM, it is still one of the best digestive herbs available. Peppermint can be used to relieve indigestion, soothe stomach aches and relieve diarrhea caused by colic. It is also a good addition to help treat irritable bowel syndrome.

Herbs can be very beneficial and help keep the body free from illness. The herbs mentioned above are just a few examples that would be good to have around if you suffer from digestive issues. Ask us to find out more about these herbs. We can help you navigate the world of medicinal herbs and find the exact combination right for you.

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In TCM, the kidney is the source of yin and yang, the cooling and warming energies that keep your body in balance.

When the kidney/bladder system is weak and not functioning properly, it can result in various conditions and imbalances throughout the body.

Complications include:

• problems with fertility, conception, pregnancy
• multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy
• weakness of hearing and vision
• weakness in teeth and hair loss

A common issue that many people experience related to the kidney is an overactive bladder. When the body is experiencing urinary problems, it means there is an imbalance throughout the body; acupuncture and TCM work by addressing the problem as a whole.

When there are problems with the kidneys, there is a disruption of the body’s natural energy flow, called qi. Acupuncture treats the specific issue, such as an overactive bladder, by correcting the overall imbalance in the body. Once your qi is returned back to its natural state of balance, the kidney/bladder system will begin to function as it should. TCM has been treating this problem for more than 2,000 years.

Acupuncture also helps the kidneys by stimulating more blood circulation, which then improves overall function, as well as lowering blood pressure.

Kidney disease is often related to immune problems. Through stimulation of blood flow and focusing on specific acupuncture points on the body, acupuncture can boost the immune system.

Herbs for kidney health

Green tea: Green tea has been used for thousands of years for its many health benefits. The tea contains antioxidants that can prevent prostate, liver and colon cancer. Green tea also contains diuretic properties as well as reduces cholesterol and fatty deposits.

Hydrangea Root: Hydrangea is a common root that can have great benefits for the kidneys. The plant increases the body’s use of calcium, which helps lower the risk of kidney stones.

Ginger: Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties as well as antioxidants that help break down toxins in the body and keep the kidneys running smoothly. Try drinking at least one cup of ginger tea or ginger lemon tea to see improvements in kidney function.

Kidney and bladder health are very important for overall wellness.

Contact an me to learn more about how acupuncture and TCM can get your body back on track and improve your quality of life.

http://orientalwisdom.com.au/conditions-treated/kidney-bladder-health/

https://yinyanghouse.com/acupuncture/my-kidneys-are-what

http://www.bladderhealthawareness.org/2011/06/acupuncture-and-chinese-herbs-for-overactive-bladder/

http://www.naturalways.com/kidney.htm

http://www.westernbotanicals.com/article/Top-8-Herbs-for-Kidney-Cleansing

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