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5 Best Acupuncture /Acupressure Points For Nausea And Sickness

Acupuncture and acupressure are both alternative therapies rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. They both stimulate specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve various symptoms. While acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points, acupressure involves applying pressure to these points with the fingers, thumbs, or other devices. When acupuncture is not available, acupressure is an alternative and convenient way to help nausea and sickness. This technique is often used for motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and nausea associated with chemotherapy.

In the context of nausea and sickness, there are specific acupressure points that are commonly targeted. Listed here are 5 best acupuncture /acupressure points for nausea and sickness.

1. ST36 (Stomach 36) or Zu San Li 足三里:

acupuncture point Zu San Li ST36

Zu San Li ST36

Location: Situated on the front of the leg, just below the knee and slightly towards the outside.

Function: This point is used for various digestive issues, such as stomach pain, cramping, nausea sickness and vomiting.

Technique: Locate the point by finding the muscle about 1cm lateral to the shin bone. Press the point and rub cross the muscle fibre, until you feel pressure aching sensation of the muscle. Keep the pressure and rub for about 5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieve.

2. PC6 (Pericardium 6) or Nei Guan 内关:

acupuncture point Nei Guan PC6

Nei Guan PC6

Location: This point is located on the inner forearm, about two to three finger widths below the wrist crease, between the two tendons.

Function: Traditionally this point is used for all symptoms related to Heart, Chest and Stomach, such as stomach pain, nausea, chest tightness and palpitation.

Technique: Applying pressure to this point until you feel pressure aching sensation, for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieve.

3. LU10 (Lung 10) or Yu Ji 鱼际:

acupuncture point Yu Ji LU10

Yu Ji LU10

Location: This point is located in the middle of greater thenar eminence on the palm side of thumb.

Function: Traditionally this point is used for heat in the lung and digestive issues including nausea and abdominal pain, particularly in children. (it is also called “板门 Ban Men” – the “Wooden Gate” in Chinese infantile Tuina massage)

Technique: Applying pressure to this point until you feel pressure or aching sensation, for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.

4. LI4 (Large Intestine 4) or He Gu 合谷:

acupuncture point he gu LI4

He Gu LI4

Location: Found on the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.

Function: traditionally this point is thought to help with various ailments, such as headache, stress, nausea and stomach pain.

Technique: Locate the point in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone, find the muscle next to the bone and apply pressure across the muscle. Keep the pressure and rub for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.

5. CV12 (Conception Vessel 12) or Zhong Wan 中脘:

acupuncture point Zhong Wan CV12

Zhong Wan CV12

Location: Located on the midline of the abdomen, about halfway between the navel and the lower edge of the breastbone,

Function: This point is believed to aid in digestion and alleviate nausea.

Technique: Using thumb or middle finger, applying pressure and rub in a circle motion for 5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.

Note on Effectiveness

It’s important to note that while many people find relief from symptoms through acupuncture and acupressure, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness can be mixed. Some studies suggest that these techniques may have a positive impact on certain conditions, while others may not find significant benefits.

If you’re considering trying acupuncture or acupressure for nausea or any other health issue, it’s advisable to consult with qualified practitioners from renowned practice like Almond Wellness Centre. They can provide guidance based on your individual health needs and ensure that these complementary therapies are used in conjunction with, not as a substitute for conventional medical care.

10 Best Chinese Herbs For Sleep Insomnia

Have a good sounded sleep is important to your physical and mental energy. Traditionally Chinese herbal medicine has been used to improve sleep for a few thousand years. Here are the list of 10 best Chinese herbs that are commonly used to promote better sleep.

Chinese herb Suan Zao Ren

Suan Zao Ren

1. Suan Zao Ren (Sour Jujube Seed)

  • Suan Zao Ren (酸枣仁), also known as Sour Jujube Seed, is the seed of the ziziphus jujuba plant. It is characterized by its sour taste and is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to address various health issues, including insomnia and anxiety.
  • Suan Zao Ren is believed to nourish the Heart and Liver, helping to calm the mind, alleviate irritability, and promote restful sleep. Its properties make it a popular choice for managing insomnia caused by emotional disturbances and restlessness.
Chinese herb Bai Zi Ren

Bai Zi Ren

2. Bai Zi Ren (Biota Seed)

  • Bai Zi Ren (柏子仁), also referred to as Biota Seed, is the seed of the Biota orientalis (L.) Endl. tree, which belongs to the cypress family. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bai Zi Ren is recognized for its sweet taste and neutral nature.
  • It is often utilized to nourish the Heart and Liver, helping to calm the Spirit, alleviate anxiety, and promote sleep. With its ability to harmonize and tranquilize, Bai Zi Ren is commonly employed in addressing insomnia, particularly when associated with excessive thinking and emotional imbalances.
  • It is also believed to have additional benefits, such as moisturizing the intestines and aiding in bowel movement.
Chinese herb Fu Shen

Fu Shen

3. Fu Shen (Poria with Wood)

  • Fu Shen (茯神), also known as Poria with Wood, is a medicinal herb derived from the fungus Poria cocos that grows on pine tree roots.
  • In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fu Shen is characterized by its ability to calm the Spirit and settle the Heart. It is often used to address emotional disturbances, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an unsettled mind.
  • With its tranquilizing properties, Fu Shen is believed to help soothe irritability, alleviate excessive worry, and promote restful sleep. It is commonly incorporated into herbal formulas aimed at treating conditions involving the Shen (mind) and emotions.
Chinese herb He Huan Pi

He Huan Pi

4. He Huan Pi (Albizia Bark)

  • He Huan Pi is believed to soothe the Liver Qi and calm the Spirit. It’s often used for insomnia caused by emotional disturbances or irritability.
  • He Huan Pi (合欢皮), also referred to as Albizia Bark, is derived from the bark of the Albizia julibrissin tree. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), He Huan Pi is recognized for its ability to soothe the Liver Qi and calm the Spirit. This herb is often used to address emotional imbalances, irritability, and insomnia resulting from emotional disturbances. He Huan Pi is believed to have a harmonizing effect on the Heart and Liver, helping to alleviate mood swings, emotional tension, and restlessness. Its calming properties make it a valuable ingredient in formulas aimed at promoting emotional well-being and facilitating relaxation.
Chinese herb Yuan Zhi

Yuan Zhi

5. Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root)

  • Yuan Zhi is thought to calm the Heart and Spirit, and it’s used for insomnia linked to restlessness and palpitations.
  • Yuan Zhi (远志), also known as Polygala Root, is a medicinal herb derived from the root of the Polygala tenuifolia plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Yuan Zhi is characterized by its ability to calm the Heart and Spirit. This herb is often used to address restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an agitated mind. Yuan Zhi is believed to have a tranquilizing effect, helping to alleviate emotional distress, ease anxiety, and promote a sense of emotional stability. With its properties in harmonizing the Heart and calming the Shen (mind), Yuan Zhi is commonly included in formulations intended to support emotional balance and enhance sleep quality.
Chinese herb Wu Wei Zi

Wu Wei Zi

6. Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Berry)

  • Wu Wei Zi is believed to calm the Spirit and generate fluids. It can be helpful for insomnia due to anxiety and Heart Yin deficiency.
  • Wu Wei Zi (五味子), also known as Schisandra Berry, is a medicinal herb derived from the Schisandra chinensis plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Wu Wei Zi is recognized for its unique five flavors: sour, sweet, salty, bitter, and pungent. This herb is often used to tonify the Kidney and nourish the Heart, helping to calm the Spirit and promote mental clarity. Wu Wei Zi is believed to have adaptogenic properties, assisting the body in adapting to stress and reducing the impact of stress-induced insomnia and anxiety. With its capacity to generate fluids and harmonize Yin and Yang, Wu Wei Zi is frequently included in formulas aimed at addressing both physical and emotional aspects of sleep disorders.
Chinese herb Long Gu

Long Gu

7. Long Gu (Dragon Bone)

  • Long Gu is fossilised bone, often from large animals. Long Gu is characterized by its ability to anchor the Spirit and calm the Heart. It is often used to address restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an unsettled mind. Long Gu is believed to help contain excessive emotional energy and provide a sense of stability.

8. Mu Li (Oyster Shell)

  • Mu Li is the shell of oysters. Mu Li is recognised for its ability to settle the Heart and calm the Spirit. Similar to Long Gu, Mu Li is used to address emotional disturbances, irritability, and insomnia. It is believed to have a tranquilizing effect on the Shen (mind) and Heart, helping to alleviate excessive worrying and emotional turbulence.

    Chinese herb Mu Li

    Mu Li

  • Long Gu and Mu Li are often used together to anchor the Spirit and calm the Heart. They’re used for insomnia with restlessness and palpitations.
  • These substances are commonly used together in herbal formulas to enhance their calming properties. Long Gu and Mu Li are often prescribed for individuals experiencing restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia with palpitations. They are valued components in TCM formulas intended to harmonize and stabilize the Spirit, promoting a sense of tranquility and better sleep quality.
Chinese herb Lian Xin

Lian Xin

9. Lian Xin (Lotus Plumule)

“Lian Xin” (莲心) or Lotus Plumule refers to the sprouted part of the lotus seed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed to have various health functions, including:

  • Soothing the Mind: Lotus Plumule is thought to have a calming effect on the mind and can be used to alleviate restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
  • Nourishing the Heart: It is believed to nourish the Heart and promote emotional well-being.
  • Promoting Digestion: Lotus Plumule is also said to aid in digestion and help with issues related to the digestive system.
  • Clearing Heat: In TCM terms, it has properties that help clear excess heat from the body.
  • Detoxification: Lotus Plumule is sometimes used for its potential detoxifying effects.
Chinese herb Ye Jiao Teng

Ye Jiao Teng

10. Ye Jiao Teng (Caulis Polygoni Multiflori or Polygonum multiflorum vine)

  • Nourishing the Heart and Calming the Mind: Ye Jiao Teng is believed to have properties that nourish the Heart and soothe the mind. It may help alleviate restlessness in sleep and promote a sense of calm.

Please note that while these herbs have been used traditionally for their potential benefits, their effectiveness and safety may vary from person to person. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Reference

  1. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 3rd Edition, by Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble.

Disclaimer: Individual responses to herbs may vary. Consultation with a qualified TCM practitioner is recommended to determine the most suitable herbs and formulations based on individual health conditions. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.

10 best Chinese herbal tea to lower blood pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic diseases. In addition to antihypertensive medications, adopting a regular and healthy lifestyle, along with traditional Chinese medicine treatment, may have beneficial effects on blood pressure control and symptom improvement. Here are ten Chinese herbal teas that may assist in lowering blood pressure:

Chrysanthemum Tea:Chinese herb Ju Hua

Chrysanthemum tea can be prepared by combining chrysanthemum with honeysuckle and licorice, which have liver-cleansing, vision-clearing, heat-clearing, and detoxifying properties. It is recommended to use sweet chrysanthemum, preferably the large white chrysanthemum produced in Suzhou and Hangzhou China. Use approximately 3 grams per serving and consume a few times daily.

Hawthorn Tea:Chinese herb Shan Zha

Hawthorn contains components that aid digestion, dilate blood vessels, lower blood sugar, and reduce blood pressure. Hawthorn tea may have some auxiliary therapeutic effects for hypertension. Use 1-2 fresh hawthorn fruits or dried hawthorn slices to brew the tea,  2~3 times daily.

Pagoda Flower Tea:Chinese herb Huai Hua

Pagoda tree flower tea possesses properties such as blood vessel constriction, and may have therapeutic effect on hypertension. After drying the pagoda tree flowers, steep them in boiling water to make the tea. You can have a few times per day.

Lotus Leaf Tea:Chinese herb He Ye

The infusion and decoction of lotus leaves have the effects of blood vessel dilation, heat-clearing, and blood pressure reduction. Additionally, lotus leaf is beneficial for weight loss and fat reduction. Use half a fresh lotus leaf, wash it, cut it into small pieces, boil it with an appropriate amount of water, and consume as tea. Alternatively, you can use dry lotus leaves in hot water to make a tea.

Polygonum Multiflorum Tea:Chinese herb He Shou Wu

Prepared Polygonum Multiflorum has the effect of reducing blood lipids and preventing blood clot formation. For individuals with elevated blood lipids, regular consumption of Polygonum Multiflorum tea shows some therapeutic effects. Take 5-10 grams of prepared Polygonum Multiflorum, boil it in water for 30 minutes, and drink it as tea.

Kudzu Root Tea:Chinese herb Ge Geng

Kudzu root improves cerebral blood circulation and provides relief for symptoms such as headache, dizziness, tinnitus, and lower back pain caused by hypertension. Wash and slice 30 grams of kudzu root, boil it in water, and consume it as tea.

Lotus Plumule Tea: Chinese herb Lian Xin

Lotus plumule refers to the green sprout/embryo inside the lotus seed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it has a bitter taste, a cooling nature, and possesses certain blood pressure-lowering effects. It also has the benefits of heat-clearing, calming the mind, and strengthening the heart. Use 12 grams of lotus seed heart, steep it in hot water, and consume it as tea.

Cassia Seed Tea:Chinese herb Jue Ming Zi

Cassia seed has the effects of lowering blood pressure, reducing blood lipids, cleansing the liver and benefit vision. Use 15-20 grams of cassia seeds to make tea by steeping them in water. Consume a times daily.

Mulberry Mistletoe Tea:Chinese herb Sang Ji Sheng

Mulberry mistletoe is an important herb for nourishing the kidney in Chinese medicine. Brew mulberry mistletoe as a tea to provide significant auxiliary therapeutic effects for hypertension. Take 15 grams of dried mulberry mistletoe, boil it for 15 minutes, and consume it as tea. You can have the tea a few time per day.

Corn Silk Tea:Chinese herb yu mi xu

In Traditional Chinese Medicine Corn silk has been used for diarrhoea, diuresis and some stomach issues. It also has some blood pressure-lowering effects. Use 25-30 grams per serving to make tea. 2~3 times daily.

For patients with hypertension, Chinese herbal tea may provide complementary therapeutic benefits in conjunction with your conventional medical treatment. In general, it is easier to use a single herb for tea brewing. For specific treatment needs or conditions, we recommend see a fully qualified Chinese medicine practitioner for herbal combinations. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasis on individualised treatment based on syndrome differentiation. Your TCM practitioners aim to address the unique patterns of disharmony within your body and provide tailored herbal remedies for the specific imbalances.

More to read

6 best Chinese herbs to lower cholesterol

Chinese herbal medicine for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (low platelet)

Chinese herbal medicineChemotherapy can sometimes cause a decrease in platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and other complications. Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries to treat a variety of medical conditions, including low platelet count. There are some limited scientific evidences to support the use of Chinese herbal medicine to increase low platelet count in individuals undergoing chemotherapy.

How can Chinese herbal medicine help?

Our registered Chinese medicine practitioners will assess your whole body’s health condition, make a Chinese medicine Pattern Diagnosis. According to the severity of the low platelet count and suggest appropriate herbal formula and treatment course.

Chinese herbal medicine may be used in conjunction with other treatments, but this should be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Research and reviews

A study observe clinical effects of Shen Cao granules on thrombocytopenia in patients with gastrointestinal cancer undergoing chemotherapy. It found that Shen Cao granules were effective in decreasing chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, shortened the duration of thrombocytopenia, and reduced the length of hospital stay and costs. [1]

A study published in 2018 has done on Chang Gung platelet elevating formula (CGPEF), a prescription with a fixed proportion of Chinese herbs, for improving CIT among gynecologic cancer patients. The research found that CGPEF is a potentially effective treatment for Chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT). Although this study is relatively small without untreated control, it demonstrated that the median platelet nadir count after CGPEF treatment (C2) was significantly higher than before (C1). Further well-designed, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with a larger number of subjects can be done based on these preliminary results.[2]

One systematic review and meta-analysis analyzed 12 randomized controlled trials of Chinese herbal medicine for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia. The authors found that Chinese herbal medicine was effective in increasing platelet count and reducing the risk of bleeding.

It’s important to note that while these studies suggest that Chinese herbal medicine may be effective in increasing platelet count in individuals with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the safety and effectiveness of specific herbs and formulas.

In summary, while Chinese herbal medicine that have been traditionally used to increase platelet count, It’s also important to seek guidance from your doctor and see a registered Chinese medicine practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Reference

  1. Chunfeng Yu, MS, Wei Liu, MS, Yuejun Mu, MS, Aihua Hou, MS, and Yin Li, MS. Effects of Shen Cao Granules on Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Integrative Cancer TherapiesVolume 18, January-December 2019.
  2. Yi-Hong Wu, 1 , 2 , 3 Hsing-Yu Chen, 1 , 2 , 4 Chyong-Huey Lai, 3 , 5 Chein-Shuo Yeh, 6 Jong-Hwei S. Pang, 4 Jian-Tai Qiu, 3 , 5 Hung-Hsueh Chou, 3 , 5 Lan-Yan Yang, 5 , 7 and Yu-Bin Pan 7. Use of Chinese Herbal Medicine Improves Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia among Gynecological Cancer . Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018; 2018: 4201325.
  3. Li YX, Li Q, Liang AH, et al. Effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine in improving platelet count among patients with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017;17(1):235. doi:10.1186/s12906-017-1738-8

Be Smartphone Smart 明智地使用智能手机

smartphone
Recently, there has been a large increase in the number of patients who come to our clinic for neck related symptoms. In addition to neck shoulder and back pain, some people may don’t known that their symptoms are neck related, such as vertigo, dizziness, numbness in the fingers, sore arms, palpitations and anxiety.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions in the past two years, many people get used to use mobile phones at home, and even addict to them. People surf the Internet, and connect others more often on social medias such as facebook, instagram, Wechat, or watch movies/videos on youtube/Tiktok. And, it took a long time.

The use of smartphones can easily lead to neck related diseases for two reasons:

Firstly, the pressure on neck increases.

When using a mobile phone, you lower your head more, and your cervical spine tilts more forward than when you are sitting and looking straight. This increases the pressure on the cervical spine.

Secondly, using a mobile phone is more addictive.

The time spent on the phone is often much longer than you think. Many of our patients use their phones for more than 5-6 hours a day, and it’s not uncommon for some to exceed 12 hours!

Excessive smartphone use can trigger or worsen neck-related symptoms. It has become the new “pandemic” during Covid 19.

Here is a reminder for everyone – Please check your phone’s screen time, preferably no more than 2 hours a day.

So, be Smartphone Smart!

be smartphone smart

最近,最近因颈椎病来诊所治疗的患者大量增加。除了颈肩背疼痛以外,有些人甚至不知道他们的许多症状是由颈椎病引起的,如眩晕、头晕、手指麻木、手臂酸痛,甚至心悸和焦虑。

由于过去两年疫情的关系,封城期间很多人习惯在家使用手机,甚至沉迷于手机-上网,社交媒体如facebook、instagram、Wecha汤, 观看电影/视频 youtube/Tiktok等, 而花费很长时间。

使用智能手机易导致颈椎疾病,原因有二:

首先,颈部压力增大。使用手机时低头更多,颈椎前倾角度相比坐着直视时要大得多,从而加大颈椎的压力。
其次,使用手机更容易上瘾。使用手机的时间往往比自己认为的要长得多。我们许多患者每天使用手机超过 5~6 小时,某些人甚至超过 12 小时也不少见!

过度使用智能手机会引发或加重颈部相关症状。它已成为 Covid 19 期间的新的“大流行”。

这里给大家提醒一下:请检查手机的使用屏幕时间,每天最好不要超过 2 小时。

所以,请明智地使用你的智能手机。