Today, there are several alternatives for hormone replacement therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the theory that there are channels throughout the body. Flowing through these channels, known as “meridians” is a person’s vital energy, known as “qi”. When you think of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is probably what first comes to mind. For those that are unfamiliar with this ancient practice, acupuncture is the application of small, disposable (and ultra-thin) needles into the skin at strategic points, known as “acupoints”, along the meridians where energy is thought to be blocked, based on a person’s ailment.
A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner places the needles on these specific points to release the blocked qi and to stimulate blockages. Acupuncture has been cited by the World Health Organization to treat over forty-three conditions including allergies, asthma, back pain, carpal tunnel, colds and flu, constipation, depression, gynecological disorders, headache, heart problems, infertility, insomnia, pre-menstrual syndrome, sciatica, sports injuries, tendonitis and stress.
Moxibustion Therapy in TCM
While acupuncture is the most well-known modality of traditional Chinese medicine, closely followed by Chinese herbology and massage (known as Asian bodywork), Moxibustion therapy, or moxa treatment, is another highly effective Oriental medicine therapy. Moxibustion involves burning moxa (mugwort herb) near or on the skin, particularly at acupoints. This treatment is designed to strengthen and stimulate blood flow and qi. This process is typically used to treat diseases, provide pain relief, expel colds, and upkeep health in general.
However, there has been a recent upsurge in patients seeking moxa treatment for one ailment in particular—menopause and its side effects.
Hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, night sweats, and nutritional deficiencies are premium symptoms of menopause. One of the most common Western treatment plans for the discomforts of menopause is hormone replacement therapy, known as HRT. Hormone replacement therapy involves the administration of estrogen and progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone. Recent news has surfaced that causes concern regarding HRT and its long term effects. Women using HRT showed increased risk for breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots. Holistic, all natural treatments such as acupuncture and moxa are effective alternatives to hormone replacement that have no side effects.
Acupuncture and Herbology for Menopause
In addition to moxa, another one of many alternatives for hormone replacement therapy is acupuncture. Studies have proven this to be an effective means to ease menopausal symptoms. A study conducted in 2007 by the Stanford University School of Medicine showed acupuncture significantly reduced the intensity of nighttime hot flashes. The study consisted of 29 postmenopausal women experiencing at least seven hot flashes per day. The intensity of the hot flashes ranged from moderate to severe. The intensity of nocturnal hot flashes decreased in the active acupuncture group (28%) as opposed to the placebo group (6%).
Chinese herbology is another remedy for menopausal symptoms. Black cohosh, for example, is an effective natural remedy for menopause that helps with a variety of symptoms including hot flashes, heart palpitations, and headaches. Additionally, St. John’s Wort can treat mild forms of depression and anxiety. Because herbs can regulate the levels of all three essential hormones in the female body – estrogen, progestin, and testosterone – herbal remedies have had positive results when treating menopausal symptoms.
Non-estrogenic herbs in particular are more commonly being used as an alternative to HRT. Herbs that can treat hormonal problems without introducing artificial hormones into the body are referred to as “non-estrogenic.” The use of non-estrogenic herbs is widespread in countries such as France, Japan, and Germany, and doctors often prescribe these herbs as remedies for menopausal symptoms specifically.
Tailoring TCM Treatments to Individual Needs
Each woman is different, and the intensity and range of each patient’s menopausal symptoms vary greatly. Unlike many Western treatments, TCM develops each treatment plan individually for the patient. There is no one-size-fits-all in Chinese medicine. A TCM practitioner can help a woman suffering from menopause by devising a treatment plan that’s right for her—and the treatment may combine moxa, acupuncture, herbology, and even massage. And the best part is—there are no side effects.
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SOURCES
Natural News: Hormone Replacement Therapy Risks http://www.naturalnews.com/032081_hormone_replacement_therapy_dangers.html#ixzz1p8NU1Bt1
“Moxa treatment.” New World Encyclopedia. N.p., 2 Apr. 2008. Web. 30 Dec. 2009.
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