SLEEP PROBLEMS? HOW TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IMPROVES YOUR SLEEP QUALITY.

The ancient Chinese believed that sleep is essential to maintaining health. Learned Chinese sages wrote,

“…replenishing health with medicine is not as good as replenishing health with diet, but…replenishing health with sleep is the best treatment of all.”

The TCM View of the Day.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), night time is Yin and daytime is Yang. Night time is or the functions of resting, digesting, and sleeping. Daytime is for working, eating, and exercising. TCM is about the rhythms natural to the body. TCM divides the day into 12, two-hour sections, each associated with a different organ of the body. The lungs, Large intestine, and liver/gallbladder (the digestive organs) are all strongest at night and the food consumption organs (spleen and stomach) are strongest in the morning. Thus, breakfast is the most important meal of the day which provides Qi, ch’i or energy for the day’s activities. The day is for food intake, and the night is for detoxification to bring the body back into balance.

TCM pays a lot of attention to the sleep cycle and sleeps problems. The Chinese practitioner will differentiate between trouble falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, and having sleep-disturbing mental states and dreams. Reducing stress that causes daily imbalance, avoiding late meals which throws the organs out of balance, stimulating activities at night, and chemical stimulants are counteracted with counselling, herbal medicines, nutrition, as well as techniques of acupuncture. 

Western medicine will search for a physical or emotional problem causing sleeplessness or sleep problems. TCM looks at the balance between night and day. TCM is concerned that insomnia or other sleep problems can stem from a fundamental imbalance of energy or Qi. Sleeping pills and anti-depressant drugs commonly prescribed for sleep disorders can become addictive. Patients begin to require the chemicals to sleep. TCM offers less intrusive treatments of acupuncture and herbal remedies. What is prescribed depends on the particular patient’s imbalance and poor distribution of Energy over the day. Sleep is often disturbed by common conditions such as emotional stresses, aches, and pains, digestive problems that can originate from the inappropriate distribution of eating or activity over day and night. 

TCM inspired remedies 

Sunlight, food, and stimulation in the morning and quiet, and restful activity at night build habits that fit the natural rhythm of the body. One way to keep things on a schedule is to flood your body with sunlight early in the morning. Opening blinds or curtains in the morning and restful activity in the afternoon and evening encourage the right production of daytime body chemistry. 

Acupuncture is widely recognised as an effective way of removing emotional conditions such as depression and anxiety that can cause insomnia. Acupuncture has been found to stimulate the body’s natural pain relief and pleasure generating mechanisms that are important for restful sleep. Acupuncture has also been found to improve respiration and reduce the effect of allergies.

Herbal medicine is one of the great contributions of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The science and art of herbal medicine has expanded well beyond China. Traditional and newly discovered herbal medications may be packaged in a western style and marketed commercially in a way traditional Chinese medicine would never have been. Herbal medications are not like sleeping pills or painkiller medications, which may be addicting or whose effectiveness can be only temporary.

There are many herbal remedies widely available in western markets that are associated with improved sleep. Many remedies are in the form of teas. Some come packaged in modern dress as supplement tablet such as:

  • Chamomile.
  • St. John’s wort.
  • Valerian.
  • Passionflower.
  • Tart cherry containing melatonin (or melatonin supplements)
  • California poppy.

Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine ( SITCM) has been educating industry-ready practitioners in Traditional Chinese Medicine in Australia since 1984. It was established to promote the growth and development of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) within our community and the health profession by providing accredited courses of the highest standards. Please contact us to learn more.

Click below to download our FREE guide on Studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

EAR ACUPUNCTURE AND THE MODERN SCIENCE OF TCM

In recent years, acupuncture has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment for a number of health issues including nausea, vomiting, bodily pain, and many others. It may also be effective in treating a number of other problems. This ancient system of health is based on the body’s natural energy flow known as chi or qi, and on the balance of the yin and yang energies. Auricular acupuncture works in much the same way as traditional acupuncture, except it focuses exclusively on the human ear. It may seem strange at first glance, but there are signs that auricular acupuncture is not only effective but that it also holds its own unique benefits.

Modern science has had an interest in TCM for quite some time now and has even adopted and refined traditional practices like acupuncture. Auricular acupuncture, or ear acupuncture as it’s commonly known, was developed in the 20th century by a French scientist named Paul Nogier. Since then, it’s become a regularly practised procedure in acupuncture treatments and has been used to treat an array of conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, and many others. 

Ear acupuncture works similarly to other forms of acupuncture, as it involves inserting needles into specific points in order to influence the flow of qi through the body. In this procedure, the ear works as a sort of microcosm to the greater whole of the individual. The ear is an extremely sensitive and neurologically active part of the body, making it highly susceptible to the kind of stimulation acupuncture works to impose. By placing pins in key points around the ear, problems in the body’s energy flow may be corrected in order to produce beneficial results in the overall well-being of the patient. 

Wide-scale clinical trials on ear acupuncture are still needed to verify all the benefits it may provide, though studies have suggested it could be highly effective in treating a large selection of conditions. One study showed that it has a real measurable effect on reducing anxiety levels in patients. Researchers determined that it produces both anti-anxiety and sedative effects, whereas the control groups that were given sham acupuncture needles did not produce the same results. This provides us with real scientific evidence that ear acupuncture can benefit those suffering from stress, insomnia, and depression among other psychological conditions. Other studies suggest it may be an effective treatment in overcoming addiction, alleviating pain, supporting weight loss, and assisting with digestive issues. 

The results are promising, and acupuncture has definitely earned its place among legitimate modern medical practices after over two millennia of tradition. Not only is it a well-weathered practice refined over generations, but it’s also a field of study full of unrealized potential waiting to be discovered. The benefits it’s capable of providing are well worth the study, as the versatility of it and other traditional Chinese medical practices hold the promise of even more to improve the overall well-being of almost anyone. 

The Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine is an accredited institution offering both the treatment and study of acupuncture and other TCM practices. Our field has all the advantages of one with 2,500 years worth of collective knowledge while simultaneously being at the cutting edge of modern medicine. If you’ve ever been searching for a meaningful career that provides real services for the well-being of others, then this may just be the path you’re looking for. Visit us here to learn more about our courses and enroll today to get started on a journey towards helping others and transforming lives for the better. 

Click below to download our FREE guide on Studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

EVIDENCE FOR ITS EFFICACY AND SAFETY IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese medicine refers to a collection of health practices that originated in China, some of them over thousands of years ago. Most people have a passing familiarity with some of the practices, including acupuncture, cupping, tai chi, and qi gong. With such a diverse range of practices, and the modern interest in alternative medicines, traditional Chinese medicine has experienced a surge in popularity, but it may have you wondering if the excitement is justified and backed by science. Research into traditional Chinese medicinal practices is still relatively new, which means that while it is too early to form conclusions, there are promising studies demonstrating the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine.

Study 1: Traditional Chinese Herbs May Benefit People with Asthma

In this U.S. scientific review, researchers found that herbal formulas containing Radix glycyrrhizae (or licorice root, as it is often called by TCM practitioners) seemed to be effective as a therapy for asthma symptoms and improved lung function. The study was followed up 3 years later to find that patients taking the herbal supplement based on Chinese medicinal herbs reported positive results and no side effects. That said, the study is small and needs further replication before it can be considered conclusive.

 

Study 2: Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis using Chinese Medicinal Plants

This reputable Chinese study examined the interaction that traditional herbs have on the immune system and bone health closely. Certain herbs are often prescribed to people with osteoporosis, which is on the rise in China, and what they were able to conclude was that because many of these herbs support regulating the immune system, and because immune and bone cells coexist in our bone cavities, supporting immune system regulation can be an effective treatment. They also noted, however, that the chemical mechanisms of the plants were “multiroute and multitargeted” which increases the chance of there being confounding factors, and the need for further study before conclusions can be drawn.

Where to Find Reputable Information about TCM

There are studies being done to understand the efficacy of various TCM practices all over the world, as people want to understand how these ancient medicinal practices continue to thrive and adapt even in the modern health landscape. While we highlighted two studies that suggest Chinese medicinal herbs as therapeutically effective, we encourage you to stay up-to-date on the latest research yourself. A few places to find reputable information about TCM

 

The Safety of TCM

Traditional Chinese medicinal practices are often considered safe. Many of them involve minor lifestyle and dietary adjustments rather than drugs or surgery, which reduces the risk of having side effects, but it is important to make sure that your practitioner is licensed and staying up-to-date on scientific research. The AHRPA has a Chinese Medicine Board that specifically regulates and tracks all the qualified practitioners and educational institutes in Australia so you can search their database to make sure that the practitioner you plan on visiting is safe and reliable before you make an appointment.

At the Sydney Institute of Traditional Medicine, we make an effort to remain informed about the latest scientific research and encourage all of our students to the do the same while honouring the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicinal practices at the same time. We hope to see more advancements in our scientific knowledge as people continue to look for alternative medicines. If you are interested in learning more about traditional Chinese medicine based on our own research and experience, we encourage you to download our eBook, where we go over much of this information in greater detail. If you are interested in taking some of our classes or becoming a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine, we’ll hope you’ll enquire today!

Click below to download our FREE guide on Studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

HOW HERBS CAN HELP TREAT ALLERGIES

Wouldn’t it be nice to use nature to combat nature? With TCM herbs, you may be able to find relief from your allergies using the gifts of the earth itself — gifts which sometimes feel like a curse as your nose is running and your eyes are itching.

A 2018 study in Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research, for example, reports that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) “appears to improve the quality of life of [allergic rhinitis] patients,” and CHM “was found to significantly enhance the quality of life compared with placebo.”

Furthermore, a 2018 meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials “suggests that CHM is more effective in treating allergic rhinitis in children compared with controls,” the authors, from Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, summarise. “CHM may also decrease the recurrence and level of immunoglobulin E, and improve symptoms such as sneezing, running nose, and nasal congestion, compared with controls.”

While the experienced practitioners at SITCM will work with people to help them develop personalized formulas, there are several herbal combinations that show particular promise. For example a 2017 review and meta analysis concluded that the “Chinese herbal medicine formula YPFS [Yu ping feng san] seems beneficial for adult [allergic rhinitis],” and called for additional randomized controlled trials.

Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan and You Gui Wan are two other commonly used formulas to resolve kidney-yang deficiencies, which can produce allergy symptoms. As published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, one team of researchers used YouGui Soup to treat allergic rhinitis with kidney-yang deficiency and their results “showed that YouGui treatment had a remarkable effect on symptoms, and the total effective rate was 89.4%.”

Green tea fan? Researchers “have identified a compound in green tea that, in laboratory tests, blocks a key cell receptor involved in producing an allergic response.” Although further studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic effect on humans, Hirofumi Tachibana, the study’s chief investigator, argues, “If you have allergies, you should consider drinking it regularly.”

In addition to seasonal allergies, TCM herbs may have potential in helping with what causes food allergies because the healing comes from inside trying to fortify the immune system. The Food Allergy Herbal Formula (FAHF-2) is a Chinese herbal formula of which initial research shows significant reduction in peanut-induced anaphylaxis in mice, the ACAAI Integrative Medicine Committee reports.

Interested in digging deeper to bring relief to yourself and others? Enrol as a student at SITCM where you can work toward your goal of becoming a TCM practitioner. We offer a Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BTCM) which is accredited by TEQSA and approved by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) for practitioner registration in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Dispensing and Chinese Herbal Medicine.

Click below to download our FREE guide on Studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEEP TISSUE AND SOFT TISSUE IN REMEDIAL MASSAGE

In traditional Chinese medicine, massage is a technique used to open up and clear the body’s natural energy pathways. Through a combination of medicinal herbs and targeted pressure points, TCM works to restore a healthy balance throughout the body. These ancient 2000-year-old methods have been shown to provide a range of benefits including reduced stress, improved blood circulation, reduced nausea and migraines, and many others.

A number of modern massage techniques have also been incorporated into TCM practices in recent years. Remedial massage is one method that has provided TCM practitioners with additional areas in which to share their unique skills. Both deep tissue and soft tissue massages have a place within remedial massage, and each has its own drawbacks and advantages. This provides a greater range of treatment options for practitioners and patients alike, allowing for even more specialized care to help treat an even wider range of issues. 

Deep Tissue Massage

Using slow and firm strokes, deep tissue massage works on the deeper layers of muscle layers within the body. It works by breaking down adhesions, increasing blood flow, and reducing inflammation, making it a suitable technique for injury rehabilitation and in treating chronic muscle pains. In remedial massage, the goal is to support the body’s own healing processes to treat problem areas, reduce chronic pain, and help recover from injuries. This makes deep tissue massage a vital asset in remedial massage therapy, though it may be slightly uncomfortable at times and not always necessary. 

Soft Tissue Massage

Rather than focusing on the deep layers of muscle, soft tissue massage focuses on a range of depths, pressures, and durations. Using similar techniques, this method works on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to relax the muscles, increase endorphins, and improve blood circulation. The main advantages of this technique are that it’s less intrusive and covers a wider area of the body. It may be more comfortable, but not always suitable for treating intense pain or recovering from injuries. 

At the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we offer a range of treatments and services backed by over 2000 years of tradition. Visit us here to learn more and book an appointment to discover how Traditional Chinese Medicine can help change your life for the better.

SITCM Clinic

HOW ACUPUNCTURE RELIEVES MIGRAINE PAIN

A migraine is usually defined as a recurrent throbbing headache that often affects only one side of the head and possibly accompanied by nausea and blurry vision. According to HeadacheAustralia.org, 23% of households contain at least one migraine sufferer. 

A migraine is an interaction between the brain and the blood vessels that feed the brain that went a bit haywire. Some parts of the brain, overstimulated, started to secrete chemicals that affect the blood vessels near it. The tightening of blood vessels causes the trigeminal nerve pain circuits to trigger, which manifests as a migraine. 

Understanding  migraine 

Western medical treatment of a migraine comes in three types: document and avoid triggers, drugs for acute attacks, and preventive drug and therapy. However, drugs can be effective for only a certain percentage of patients. 

Acupuncture has proven to help effectively for both prevention and treatment of acute attacks, even as Western medicine have other ways to understand the “mechanism” of how such treatment work on the human body for pain relief. With further study, it turns out acupuncture has two major mechanisms for migraine relief: relaxing the arteries in the area and inducing the body to release endorphins with analgesic effects. 

By using ultrasound Doppler imaging techniques, scientists can observe the blood flow under the skin. In a study in 2012 using ultrasound Doppler imaging, doctors in Japan were able to prove conclusively that acupuncture can relax arteries, and they tested this on various parts of the body. By relaxing the blood vessels near the head, much of the acute migraine attack can be relieved. 

Acupuncture was long known to have the ability to induce the body to release endorphins to block pains, as cited by ABC. This confirmed by studies using the latest brain imaging techniques.

If you are one of the three million Australians suffering from a migraine and living near Sydney, book an appointment at SITCM today and see how acupuncture and TCM can help you.

SITCM Clinic