Title: What Does Chinese Medicine Say About This "Unsettled" Stomach?
Author: Tang Yulan, Practicing Chinese Medicine Physician (Apprenticeship) (Practice License Number: 341431381000002) This article is written by Dr. Tang Yulan and is based on classical Chinese medicine theories and clinical experience. It is intended for popular science reference only. The qualifications can be publicly verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
In the clinic, it is common for patients to sit down with a furrowed brow, placing their hands on their abdomen, yet struggling to articulate exactly where the discomfort lies. "It's just that my stomach feels chaotic, as if something is churning, or as if it's empty, I can't tell if I'm hungry or full." This kind of vague distress is not uncommon in clinical practice of Chinese medicine. It is neither as clear as severe pain nor as specific as bloating, yet it can make people sit uneasily...
Title: The Concept of "Qi Stagnation" in Chinese Medicine
In Chinese medicine, this kind of discomfort is often attributed to "Qi Stagnation" in the stomach. Qi, in Chinese medicine, refers to the vital energy that flows through the body. Stagnation refers to a blockage or imbalance in the flow of Qi. When Qi is stagnant in the stomach, it can lead to various symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, nausea, and a sense of discomfort.
Title: Causes and Treatment of Stomach Discomfort
The causes of stomach discomfort can vary, including poor diet, emotional stress, and insufficient physical activity. In Chinese medicine, treatment focuses on balancing the Qi and resolving the stagnation. This can be achieved through various methods, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments.
Title: Herbal Medicine for Stomach Discomfort
Herbal medicine plays a significant role in the treatment of stomach discomfort in Chinese medicine. Certain herbs are known to help regulate Qi flow and alleviate symptoms. For example, Peony Root (Paeonia lactiflora) is commonly used to relieve Qi stagnation and alleviate pain, while Cinnamon twig (Cinnamomum cassia) is used to warm the middle burner and improve digestion.
Title: Acupuncture and Other Therapies
Acupuncture is another important therapeutic modality in Chinese medicine for treating stomach discomfort. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate Qi flow. Other therapies, such as cupping and moxibustion, may also be used to address the underlying imbalances.