Ever had that unsettling feeling like a lump stuck in your throat, even though you know there’s nothing actually there? If you’ve experienced this, you might be dealing with what we call Plum Pit Syndrome, or 梅核气 (Méihéqì) in traditional Chinese medicine. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are ways we can help you manage it.
What’s Behind That Lump-in-Throat Feeling?
In Chinese medicine, Plum Pit Syndrome is often linked to emotional stress—things like anxiety, frustration, or even long-held sadness. These emotions can cause your Qi (the body’s vital energy) to get stuck, especially in the liver. When Qi stagnates, it can create phlegm that seems to block your throat, causing that all-too-familiar sensation.
But here’s the good news: by addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of this condition, you can find relief and get back to feeling like yourself again.
How Acupuncture Can Ease That Stuck Feeling
Acupuncture is a gentle yet powerful way to help your body relax, move the Qi, and clear out the phlegm that’s causing discomfort. Here’s how it works:
Releasing Stuck Qi: If stress is affecting you, you might feel it in your body, especially in your throat. Acupuncture points like Liver 3 (Taichong) can help release the tension and get your Qi flowing smoothly again.
Supporting Digestive Health: Your digestive system plays a huge role in how your body handles stress and phlegm. Points like Stomach 36 (Zusanli) can help balance your stomach and spleen, reducing the buildup that might be causing your symptoms.
Opening the Throat: Using points like Ren 22 (Tiantu), we can help open up the throat area, making that lump-in-throat feeling fade away over time.
Calming the Mind: Emotional well-being is crucial. Points like Heart 7 (Shenmen) are chosen to calm your mind and help you feel more at peace, reducing the stress that often contributes to Plum Pit Syndrome.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Your Ally in Healing
Alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine offers a powerful way to support your healing journey. We might suggest specific formulas that match your symptoms:
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang (Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction): This classic formula is often our go-to for Plum Pit Syndrome. It helps clear phlegm and move Qi, addressing the root causes of that lump-in-throat feeling.
Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder): If emotional stress is at the core of your symptoms, this formula can help by smoothing the flow of Liver Qi and easing tension.
Er Chen Tang (Two-Cured Decoction): For those dealing with a lot of phlegm, this formula works to clear it out, helping you feel more comfortable and at ease.
What You Can Do to Support Your Healing
We believe in taking a holistic approach, which means there are things you can do at home to support your treatment:
Stress Management: Incorporate practices like meditation or deep breathing into your daily routine to help manage stress. Physical exercises such as walking, jogging, or yoga can also be incredibly beneficial in keeping your body and mind balanced.
Build Positive Connections: Engaging in more positive social interactions can boost your emotional well-being. Try to limit time spent on social media, especially avoiding negative content that might increase stress levels.
Healthy Eating: Choose a diet that’s light and easy on your digestion. Avoiding heavy, greasy foods can reduce phlegm and keep your Qi flowing smoothly.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and warm herbal teas can help your body clear phlegm and stay balanced.
We’re Here to Help You Feel Better
You don’t have to face that lump-in-throat feeling alone. Our approach is all about supporting you physically and emotionally as you work towards feeling better. Together, we’ll help you find relief and regain your sense of well-being, one step at a time.
Struggling with itchy, uncomfortable eyes can be really frustrating. If you’ve been searching for relief, you’re in the right place. Traditional Chinese medicine offers a simple yet effective solution with two amazing herbs: Dandelion (蒲公英) and Tribulus terrestris (白蒺藜).
herb pu gong ying – dandelion
Why Dandelion and Tribulus terrestris Work Wonders
Both of these herbs have been cherished in Chinese medicine for their ability to soothe eye discomfort. According to the “Pharmacological Rhymes” (《药性赋》), dandelion helps with issues like breast abscesses and promotes the smooth flow of Qi, while Tribulus terrestris is known for treating skin sores and improving eye health.
These herbs are recommended together for their gentle yet powerful effects on eye problems such as itchiness, dryness, and irritation. People love this combination for its natural approach to eye care.
herb bai ji li – Tribulus Terrestris
How to Use These Herbs
Using these herbs is straightforward. Here’s how you can prepare the remedy:
Ingredients: Combine 50 grams of dandelion with 50 grams of Tribulus terrestris.
Preparation: Blend the herbs and grind them into a coarse powder.
Dosage: Take 10 grams of the herb powder and steep it in boiling water to make a tea. Drink this tea twice daily.
This formula has been beneficial for many people. Since dandelion grows abundantly in the wild, it is an easily accessible remedy.
Additional Benefits
Dandelion’s benefits extend beyond the eyes. It can also assist with other conditions such as pneumonia, esophagitis, cholecystitis, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Its mild nature makes it a valuable remedy. When paired with goldenfruit cornlily, dandelion enhances treatments for chronic gastritis and gastric ulcers.
A Trusted Formula
The well-known Chinese medicine expert Zhang Xichun praised dandelion for its role in treating various eye issues, including swelling, pain, pterygium, red veins, eye pressure pain, photophobia, and excessive tearing. Whether taken internally or used as a wash, dandelion provides noticeable relief, especially for dry, itchy eyes in elderly individuals.
Zhang Xichun also shared an effective dandelion decoction formula:
Ingredients: Four taels of fresh dandelion (including root, leaves, stem, and flower) or two taels of dried dandelion if fresh is not available.
Preparation: Boil the herbs to make two large bowls of decoction.
Usage: Drink one bowl of the warm decoction and use the remaining bowl for hot compresses and eye washing.
This formula has been beneficial for many people. Since dandelion grows abundantly in the wild, it is an easily accessible remedy.
Final Advice
Traditional Chinese medicine offers many natural solutions for common health issues. If you’re dealing with itchy eyes, consider trying dandelion and white tribulus. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
At Almond Wellness Centre in Melbourne, we offer not only raw dried herbs but also convenient herbal granules. These granules are extracted and concentrated, so you get the benefits of traditional Chinese herbal medicine without the hassle of preparation. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to simplify their wellness routine.
Disclaimer:
This post shares knowledge about traditional Chinese medicine. The herbal formulas mentioned are for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Cancer treatment might end, but for many survivors, the journey to feeling truly well can be a long one. Thankfully, acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer promising ways to tackle the lingering challenges. Beverley de Valois, in her article “Acupuncture and Cancer Survivorship: The Missing Piece,” and the Almond Wellness Centre both highlight how these traditional therapies can be game-changers for cancer survivors.
Life After Cancer Treatment: The Reality
So, you’ve beaten cancer. That’s fantastic! But if you’re like many survivors, you might still be grappling with a range of physical and emotional issues. From persistent pain and fatigue to anxiety and sleep problems, the aftermath of cancer treatments can be tough. This is where acupuncture and Chinese medicine step in, offering a holistic approach to help you feel better overall.
Why Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture isn’t just about needles—it’s about restoring balance. It can help with chronic pain, hot flushes, lymphedema, and those pesky sleep problems. Even better, it has fewer side effects than many conventional treatments. Plus, it’s fantastic for your mental health, helping to reduce anxiety, depression, and the fear of cancer coming back.
The Power of Chinese Herbal Medicine
Over at Almond Wellness Centre, they combine Chinese herbal medicine with your conventional treatments. Research shows that this combination can ease symptoms like low white blood cell count, nausea, vomiting, and anaemia. This is especially helpful for patients with cancers such as non-small cell lung cancer, gastric cancer, and liver cancer. By improving blood counts and reducing side effects, these herbs can really boost your overall well-being.
Integrative Care: The Best of Both Worlds
Integrating acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine into your cancer care routine offers a well-rounded approach that addresses both your body and mind. Here’s how it can help:
Beat Fatigue: Acupuncture can tackle cancer-related fatigue, giving you more energy to enjoy life.
Manage Pain: It’s effective for pain, including that caused by chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Ease Side Effects: Both acupuncture and herbal medicine can reduce chemo side effects like nausea, vomiting, and low blood counts.
Improve Sleep: By reducing stress and anxiety, acupuncture can help you sleep better.
Boost Quality of Life: Addressing physical symptoms and providing emotional support, these therapies can significantly improve your overall quality of life.
Backing It Up with Research
Research supports the effectiveness of these therapies. For instance, studies show that acupuncture can reduce pain and improve quality of life for cancer patients. It’s also been shown to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and joint pain in breast cancer patients, and herbs like chamomile and lavender can help with anxiety and depression.
Personalised Care at Almond Wellness Centre
At Almond Wellness Centre in Coburg and Ringwood, you’ll get a personalised treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Dr. Richard Zeng and his team are dedicated to supporting your cancer recovery with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and lifestyle advice tailored just for you.
Wrapping It Up
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can make a huge difference in your life after cancer treatment. By addressing both physical and emotional challenges, these therapies offer a holistic approach to improving your quality of life and supporting long-term recovery. If you’re considering these complementary therapies, reach out to experienced practitioners to see how they can help you on your journey to better health.
References
De Valois, B. (2023). Acupuncture and Cancer Survivorship: The Missing Piece.
Science Reports (2015). Combining CHM with chemotherapy reduces symptoms in cancer patients.
de Valois B. Acupuncture and Cancer Survivorship: Recovery, Renewal, and Transformation. London: Singing Dragon; 2023.
Journal of Clinical Oncology (2010). Acupuncture reduces pain and dysfunction in head or neck cancer patients.
PubMed (2024). Electroacupuncture improves fatigue, anxiety, and depression in breast cancer patients.
PubMed (2010). Acupuncture for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
Phytotherapy Research (2018). Herbal Medicine for Depression and Anxiety in cancer patients.
Society for Integrative Oncology and American Society of Clinical Oncology. Guidelines for integrative oncology.
Mao JJ, Nofisat I, Ting B, et al. Integrative medicine for pain management in oncology: Society for Integrative Oncology–ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol, 2022;40(34):3998-4024.
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 tranquilising effect on the Shen (mind) and Heart, helping to alleviate anxiety, excessive worrying and emotional turbulence.
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 harmonise and stabilise the Spirit, promoting a sense of tranquility and better sleep quality.
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.
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 Chinese herbal medicine 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
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.
