CHINESE MEDICINE

Over the past 2,000 years, the Chinese have observed and learned that combining specific plants and substances can be much more effective in treating diseases than the typical approach in Western medicine, which often relies on using just one plant or substance at a time.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is gaining global recognition as a time-honored practice that has consistently addressed human ailments and helped prevent future diseases and health imbalances. Chinese herbal medicine is particularly distinguished for its advanced approach in treating clinical issues while catering to each patient's specific needs.

The clinical practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) involves differential diagnosis and treatment based on a detailed analysis of signs, symptoms, and syndrome differentiation. Selecting the right base herbal formula is an art that relies on this analysis, with modifications tailored to each person's specific presentation. Chinese herbs facilitate a gradual healing process that not only targets symptoms but also enhances overall body functions. As a result, alongside the improvement of primary symptoms, other organ functions often show significant benefits. While most modern studies on Chinese herbal medicine focus on the efficacy and safety of individual herbs, TCM traditionally combines these herbs with other components, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

Chinese herbal medicine offers a wide array of powerful natural remedies to address various health needs. However, professional guidance is crucial to ensure safety and effectiveness. A knowledgeable practitioner can help avoid potential negative interactions between herbs and medications while also identifying the ideal combination of herbs to create the most beneficial synergy for your optimal health.

The treatment method serves as the critical link between a disease and its effective herbal remedy. For a treatment to be successful, it requires a precise diagnosis by a certified professional, thoughtful planning of the treatment approach, and careful selection of the appropriate herbal formula.

Chinese herbal medicine can be used to assist with symptoms of a wide range of conditions. In the traditional Chinese herbal medicine system, herbal formulations are versatile and can be applied to treat various health issues, including:

• Liver disease (hepatitis and cirrhosis)

• Sexual dysfunction in men
  

• Infertility in women
  

• Insomnia
  

• Colds and flu
  

• Period pain, irregular menstruation, and reducing menopause hot flashes
  

• IBS
  

• Allergies
  

• Constipation
  

• Osteoarthritis
  

• Muscle spasms or pain
  

• Diabetes
  

• Asthma
  

• Eczema
  

• Headache and migraines
  

• Cancer
  

Examples of the scientific evidence supporting TCM:

Hepatitis: Bupleurum root, known as Bei Chai Hu in Chinese medicine, is traditionally used to treat respiratory infections such as the flu, swine flu, the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia, along with their associated symptoms like fever and cough. Recent research highlights its potential beyond these uses. The Japanese Health Ministry has acknowledged a herbal combination that includes Bupleurum root, known as Sho-saiko-to, as a treatment for chronic hepatitis. Currently, Sho-saiko-to is being evaluated in a phase II trial at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center for its effectiveness in treating hepatitis C.

Allergic Rhinitis: Many individuals with allergic rhinitis (AR) turn to Chinese medicine after finding conventional treatments unsatisfactory. In a study conducted with 249 students from a Hong Kong university suffering from chronic allergic rhinitis, participants tried Chinese herbal prescriptions for their condition. After just four weeks of treatment, they reported significant improvements in both symptom severity and overall quality of life.

Osteoarthritis: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 96 participants with knee osteoarthritis investigated the effectiveness of a combination of three Chinese herbs: Clematis mandshurica, Trichosanthes kirilowii, and Prunella vulgaris. After four weeks of treatment, all groups receiving the herbal combination demonstrated significant improvement in their arthritic symptoms.

Diabetes: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long history of successfully treating diabetes mellitus. In a controlled trial, 800 patients with poor glycemic control were randomly assigned to receive a compound of Chinese herbs. After 48 weeks, the group treated with the herbal compound showed a significant reduction in the risk of hypoglycemia and achieved similar improvements in blood sugar levels compared to the group receiving conventional drug treatment.

Chinese Medical Herbs for Chemotherapy Side Effects: Chinese herbal medicines are commonly used to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients. Four relevant studies involving a total of 342 patients with well-documented data found evidence of benefits from Huangqi compound decoctions. Patients who received both chemotherapy and Huangqi decoctions experienced fewer instances of nausea, vomiting, and low white blood cell counts compared to those who underwent chemotherapy alone. Additionally, there was some evidence that these decoctions stimulated immune system cells, though they did not appear to affect antibody levels in the blood. Importantly, no harmful effects from the use of Huangqi decoctions were reported.

Immune System Support: Kampo, a blend of various plants, is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system and support cancer treatment. Shimotsu-to is a specific combination of herbs that effectively combats chronic inflammation. Nao Li Su, a preparation made from five plants, is used to increase red blood cell counts in elderly patients with chronic anemia. Meanwhile, Nao Yi An is a powerful compound mix that is effective in the prevention and treatment of brain hemorrhages.

It's common for a Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine (TCHM) expert to "prescribe" special meals tailored to your needs and offer advice on optimizing your living environment, such as repositioning your bed to face south instead of north. Additional practices like massage, meditation, and Qi Gong may also be recommended. Acupuncture is often used alongside herbal treatments as a complementary therapy, with specific lifestyle adjustments frequently suggested to enhance overall well-being.

Schedule an appointment at Austin Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine, or give us a call for a free consultation to explore how traditional Chinese medicine can support your healing journey.