How to Treat Menopause Using Chinese Medicine

Using the ancient theories of Yin and Yang and bodily harmony, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) views the onset of menopause as a transitional period in a woman's life when Yang begins to dominate where Yin once ruled. This natural change can cause imbalances and irregularities in the bodies of menopausal women, such as hot flashes, insomnia, headache, anxiety and fatique. Chinese medicine practitioners believe these imbalances can be addressed using acupuncture, herbal therapies and by implementing lifestyle changes promoting more active, healthy living. Follow these steps to find out how.

Instructions

1. Learn more about TCM's view of the body at the Health World Online Web site (see Resources below). The important theories of Yin and Yang, Qi energy and Meridian pathways are especially useful in understanding how you can treat menopause using TCM.

2. See a TCM specialist to determine which of the five major menopausal syndromes are causing your symptoms. Stagnation of the Qi or blood, an abundance of phlegm or excessive Yin buildups are generally viewed as the root causes of menopausal disorders.

3. Get acupuncture therapy to promote proper flow of both energy and blood. Multiple acupuncture sessions are generally required to treat menopausal disorders.

4. Use herbs or combinations of herbs to promote health and balance within your body and to hasten the dissipation of the energy blockages and fluid buildups common to menopause. A Chinese herbalist can direct you to specific treatments, depending on your particular case.

5. Join a Qigong or Tai Chi class. These martial arts are devoted specifically to fostering overall health through balanced energy and strength of mind and body.

6. Familiarize yourself with acupressure techniques that can be used to treat the hot flashes and bouts of insomnia that are common symptoms of the onset of menopause. Mastering these will arm you with a natural remedy that is always available and free of cost.

Tips & Warnings

• The costs involved with seeking therapy using TCM are generally moderate. Consultations with practitioners cost roughly the same as a visit to a family physician, and the price of herbal therapies are comparable to that of most over-the-counter drugs.

• Seek medical advice if you notice a loss of height, severe and sudden back pain, an involuntary change of posture or bone injuries. Menopausal and post-menopausal women are at heightened risk of developing osteoperosis.

• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.