Digestive Issues

In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach are responsible for transforming food into Qi (vital energy) and blood. When these organs are weakened, digestive problems arise, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, irregular bowel movements, and fatigue. TCM treats digestive issues by restoring balance, improving digestion, and addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms.

Acupuncture – Stimulates specific points to regulate Spleen and Stomach Qi, improve gut motility, reduce bloating, and relieve inflammation. Acupuncture also helps regulate the gut-brain axis, which is beneficial for stress-related digestive disorders like IBS.

Herbal Medicine – Custom herbal formulas strengthen digestion, clear dampness, and reduce inflammation. Common herbs include:

• Shan Zha (Hawthorn Berry) – Helps break down food and reduce bloating.
• Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel) – Moves stagnant Qi in the stomach and reduces nausea.
• Huang Lian (Coptis Root) – Clears heat and inflammation, especially for acid reflux and gastritis.

Electro-Acupuncture (E-Stim) – Enhances the effects of acupuncture, particularly for conditions like constipation and bloating, by improving peristalsis and stimulating nerve pathways in the gut.

Moxibustion – The burning of mugwort near the Spleen and Stomach meridians to warm and strengthen digestion, especially for conditions linked to cold and dampness (such as diarrhea and fatigue after eating).

Dietary Therapy – Food is prescribed based on an individual’s pattern of imbalance:

• For bloating and sluggish digestion, avoid excessive raw, cold foods and eat warm, cooked meals.
• For acid reflux, reduce spicy and greasy foods while incorporating cooling, alkaline foods like cucumbers and almonds.
• For constipation, increase warm fluids and eat fiber-rich, moistening foods like pears, flaxseeds, and black sesame.

Exercise (Qi Gong & Walking) – Gentle movement promotes digestion by moving Liver Qi, reducing stress-related gut issues, and stimulating bowel movements.

Common Digestive Issues Treated by TCM

• Bloating & Gas
• Constipation & Diarrhea
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Leaky Gut Syndrome
• Food Sensitivities
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis 
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Acid Reflux and Heartburn
• Gastritis
• Stomach Ulcers
• Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) 
• Celiac Disease 
• Diverticulitis 

By restoring digestive function, regulating Qi flow, and addressing imbalances, TCM provides a holistic and effective approach to managing digestive health without the need for long-term medications.