Title: The Origin of Lactation: Qi, Blood, and Body Fluids, How They Constitute Milk?
Author: Li Mingjiu, a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner (Practice License No.: 141330522000349). This article is written by Dr. Li Mingjiu, based on classical TCM theories and clinical experience, and is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes. The qualifications can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
"The saying in TCM clinical practice, 'Nine out of ten women are deficient after childbirth, and nine out of ten are deficient in milk,' reveals the commonality of insufficient lactation after childbirth." According to recent epidemiological surveys, the incidence of insufficient lactation after childbirth is as high as 60%-78%. When insufficient milk becomes the source of anxiety for countless new mothers, it is advisable to take a moment to re-examine this issue with a TCM perspective. Where does milk come from, and why does it "cease to flow"?
Title: The Source of Lactation: Qi, Blood, and Body Fluids – How They Become Milk?
The Yellow Emperor's Internal Classic states, "The middle burner receives Qi and extracts juice, which changes to red and becomes blood." TCM believes that milk and blood have the same origin, both being formed from the transformation of the essence of grains and vegetables by the spleen and stomach. After childbirth, there is a significant loss of Qi and blood...
Title: The Pathogenesis of Lactation Deficiency in TCM
In TCM, lactation deficiency is often attributed to various factors, such as postpartum depletion of Qi and blood, improper diet, emotional disturbances, and external pathogenic factors. The treatment of lactation deficiency in TCM focuses on replenishing Qi and blood, harmonizing the liver and kidney, and promoting the circulation of Qi and blood. Commonly used herbal formulas include Sheng Mai San, Si Miao San, and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang.
Title: TCM Recommendations for Lactation Enhancement
In addition to herbal medicine, TCM offers various recommendations for enhancing lactation. These include:
1. Proper diet: A diet rich in nutrients, such as milk, fish, meat, and vegetables, is recommended to provide the necessary nutrients for milk production.
2. Emotional support: Providing emotional support to new mothers can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which may contribute to lactation deficiency.
3. Acupuncture and moxibustion: These therapeutic modalities can help promote the circulation of Qi and blood, thereby enhancing lactation.