The Yin & Yang of Menstruation
Hola ladies and gents, to celebrate the success of our International Women’s Day event this year, I wanted to write this post to debunk the mystery of what is considered “normal” when it comes to menstruation. Affectionately known as “moon time”, when “aunty flo visits”, and even when the “crimson tide” rolls in, western medicine’s view on “normal” falls into an extremely wide range of values. In the majority of cases, if you fall in between these values, there is no reason for concern, but if you are a female who has been wanting to fall pregnant with no success, then one of the first things I will look at, as a TCM doctor, is your cycle.
Menstruation is a natural biological process for women, signaling the end of a cycle and the possibility of new life. While western medicine tends to view menstruation as a physiological event tied to hormonal fluctuations, TCM offers a unique and holistic perspective that goes beyond the mere physical function. In TCM, menstruation is seen as part of the larger cycle of energy (Qi), blood, and organ health, influenced by both internal and external factors.
The Role of Qi and Blood in Menstruation
In TCM, menstruation is seen as a manifestation of the body’s internal balance of Qi (vital energy) and blood. Qi is the life force that flows through the body’s meridians, and blood is the substance that nourishes and supports the body’s organs, tissues, and systems. For menstruation to occur smoothly, both Qi and blood must be in harmony.
Qi and blood have a symbiotic relationship in TCM. Qi is responsible for moving blood, while blood nourishes and supports Qi. If there is an imbalance, such as Qi stagnation or blood deficiency, menstruation can be disrupted.
Qi Stagnation: When Qi stagnates, it can lead to symptoms like painful periods (dysmenorrhea), irritability, and mood swings. Qi stagnation may be caused by stress, emotional blockages, or poor circulation.
Blood Deficiency: When the body’s blood supply is insufficient, the menstrual flow may be light or delayed. Symptoms of blood deficiency may include pale skin, dizziness, fatigue, and a thin, scanty period.
Both Qi and blood play key roles in regulating menstrual cycles. For a regular, healthy cycle, there must be an adequate flow of both Qi and blood. If either one is out of balance, menstruation may become irregular, painful, or absent.
The Influence of Yin and Yang
Yin and Yang are foundational concepts in TCM that represent opposing, yet complementary forces that need to be in balance for health. In the context of menstruation, Yin is associated with cooling, nourishing, and calming qualities, while Yang is associated with warmth, activity, and stimulation. For a woman’s menstrual health to remain balanced, the Yin-Yang dynamic must be harmonious. Qi is yang in nature and blood is yin in nature.
Yin Deficiency: When Yin energy is weak, it can lead to an excess of Yang. Symptoms might include heavy menstrual bleeding, heat sensations, hot flashes, or night sweats. Yin deficiency may be caused by overwork, emotional stress, or improper diet.
Yang Deficiency: Conversely, Yang deficiency can cause coldness in the body, leading to symptoms such as pale, scanty periods, cold hands and feet, and fatigue. This imbalance can be linked to a weakened kidney or spleen function in TCM.
In TCM, the kidney are considered the "root of life," and they play a crucial role in regulating menstruation. Both Yin and Yang energies are derived from the kidney, and when these energies are weak, menstrual problems like irregular cycles, cramps, and missed periods can occur.
The Five Organs and Menstruation
In TCM, menstruation is closely linked to the health of the five organs: the Heart, Liver, Spleen, Lung, and Kidney. Each organ has a specific role in maintaining menstrual health.
The Liver: The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. If Liver Qi becomes stagnant, it can cause irregular or painful menstruation. Liver Qi stagnation can also lead to mood swings, irritability, and even premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In TCM, Liver Qi is often targeted in the treatment of menstrual pain and emotional symptoms.
The Spleen: The Spleen is central to the production of blood in TCM. If the Spleen is weak, it may fail to produce enough blood, leading to blood deficiency and lighter or delayed periods. The Spleen also governs digestion, so poor diet or digestive issues can impact menstrual health by reducing the body's ability to generate blood.
The Kidney: The Kidney are crucial for regulating the reproductive system and the menstrual cycle. In TCM, the Kidney store essence (Jing), which is vital for growth, reproduction, and sexual health. A deficiency in Kidney Yin or Kidney Yang can result in irregular periods, infertility, or early menopause.
The Heart: The Heart is responsible for the circulation of blood. In TCM, the Heart also governs the mind, emotions, and sleep. Poor blood circulation due to Heart deficiency may lead to issues like palpitations, anxiety, and disrupted sleep, all of which can affect menstruation.
The Lung: The Lung plays a role in the overall Qi system, especially in terms of its distribution throughout the body. If the Lung Qi is weak, it can contribute to a lack of vitality, impacting the overall health of menstruation.
By understanding how these five organs function together, your TCM practitioner can identify and treat the root cause of your menstrual issues. For instance, a woman experiencing severe menstrual cramps might be treated for Liver Qi stagnation, while someone with irregular periods due to low blood might be given herbs to nourish the Spleen and increase blood production.
TCM Treatments for Menstrual Health
TCM treatments aim to restore balance and harmony to the body’s internal systems, including the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Some common TCM therapies include:
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is often used to regulate the flow of Qi and blood. Specific acupuncture points are selected to stimulate energy flow and balance the organs involved in menstruation. For example, points along the Liver meridian can help release stagnant Qi, while Kidney points can support reproductive health.
Herbal Medicine: TCM herbal formulas are tailored to the individual’s unique imbalance. For example, Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) is often used to tonify the blood and regulate menstruation, while Chai Hu (Bupleurum) can help relieve Liver Qi stagnation. Other herbs like Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia) and Bai Shao (White Peony Root) are commonly used for menstrual irregularities and blood deficiency.
Dietary Therapy: In TCM, food is seen as medicine, and dietary changes are often recommended to support menstrual health. A diet rich in whole grains, leafy vegetables, and warming foods (like ginger and cinnamon) can help boost Qi and blood circulation, while avoiding cold and raw foods can support Spleen and Kidney function.
Qi Gong and Tai Chi: These practices focus on gentle movement and breathing to help restore the flow of Qi throughout the body. Regular practice can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and balance the energy systems, benefiting menstrual health.
Menstruation is more than just a biological function; it is a reflection of the body, mind and soul’s inner harmony. TCM views menstruation as an intricate interplay of Qi, blood, yin, yang and organ health, emphasizing the importance of balance and the need for holistic care. Whether through acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary changes, or lifestyle adjustments, TCM offers a valuable approach to addressing menstrual issues and promoting overall well-being. By understanding and respecting the body’s natural rhythms, every woman can find a path toward better menstrual health and a more balanced life.
Want to know more? Book in an appointment with one of our qualified TCM practitioners/doctor or Acupuncturists today!
Much love
Dr Keoh xx
