Balancing Your Gut Health: An Insight into Modern Acupuncture Points Selection for Digestive Disorders in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat a wide variety of health conditions, including digestive disorders. The selection of acupuncture points for digestive disorders depends on the specific symptoms and underlying causes of the condition. This article will explore the different acupuncture points used for digestive disorders, as well as the underlying theories behind their effectiveness.
Acupuncture And Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Before diving into acupuncture point selection for digestive disorders, it’s important to understand the principles behind TCM and acupuncture. TCM is based on the idea that the body is a microcosm of the natural world and is governed by the same principles. TCM practitioners believe that the body’s energy, or Qi, flows through channels known as meridians. When Qi is disrupted or blocked, illness can result.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points along the body’s meridians to stimulate Qi flow and restore balance. The selection of acupuncture points is based on the patient’s specific symptoms and underlying imbalances.
Digestive Disorders In Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, digestive disorders are viewed as a result of imbalances in the digestive system or the body as a whole. The digestive system is responsible for transforming food and drink into Qi and blood, which are necessary for the body’s functioning. When the digestive system is functioning properly, the Qi flows smoothly, and digestion is efficient.
However, when there are imbalances in the digestive system, the Qi can become blocked or deficient, leading to a range of digestive disorders. Common digestive disorders treated with acupuncture include acid reflux, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Acupuncture Points For Digestive Disorders
The selection of acupuncture points for digestive disorders is based on the specific symptoms and underlying causes of the condition. In TCM, the digestive system is viewed as consisting of several organs, including the stomach, spleen, liver, and intestines. Each organ has specific acupuncture points that are used to treat digestive disorders.
Stomach
- The stomach is responsible for receiving and breaking down food. When there is an imbalance in the stomach, the patient may experience acid reflux, nausea, or vomiting. Acupuncture points commonly used to treat stomach imbalances include ST36, PC6, and CV12.
- ST36, also known as the Leg Three Miles point, is located on the lower leg, three finger-widths below the knee. This point is believed to strengthen the stomach and spleen, improve digestion, and reduce nausea and vomiting.
- PC6, also known as the Inner Pass point, is located on the inside of the forearm, two finger-widths above the wrist. This point is believed to regulate Qi flow in the chest and stomach, relieve nausea and vomiting, and calm the mind.
- CV12, also known as the Conception Vessel 12 point, is located on the midline of the abdomen, six finger-widths above the navel. This point is believed to regulate the stomach, reduce acid reflux, and improve digestion.
Spleen
- The Spleen is responsible for transforming food into Qi and blood. When there is an imbalance in the spleen, the patient may experience bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. Acupuncture points commonly used to treat spleen imbalances include SP6, ST25, and CV6.
- SP6, also known as the Three Yin Intersection point, is located on the inside of the lower leg, three finger-widths above the ankle. This point is believed to regulate the spleen, improve digestion, and relieve bloating and constipation.
- ST25, also known as the Celestial Pivot point, is located on the lower abdomen, two finger-widths lateral to the navel. This point is believed to regulate the intestines, reduce bloating and constipation, and improve digestion.
- CV6, also known as the Conception Vessel 6 point, is located on the midline of the lower abdomen, one finger-width below the navel. This point is believed to regulate the spleen, improve digestion, and reduce bloating and constipation.
Liver
- The liver is responsible for regulating the flow of Qi throughout the body. When there is an imbalance in the liver, the patient may experience abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea. Acupuncture points commonly used to treat liver imbalances include LR3, GB34, and CV14.
- LR3, also known as the Great Rushing point, is located on the top of the foot, between the first and second toes. This point is used to regulate the liver, relieve abdominal pain, and reduce bloating and diarrhea.
- GB34, also known as the Yanglingquan point, is located on the outside of the lower leg, below the knee. This point is used to regulate the liver and gallbladder, relieve abdominal pain, and reduce bloating and diarrhea.
- CV14, also known as the Conception Vessel 14 point, is located on the midline of the chest, four finger-widths above the navel. This point is used to regulate the liver, reduce abdominal pain, and improve digestion.
Intestine
- The intestines are responsible for absorbing nutrients and eliminating waste. When there is an imbalance in the intestines, the patient may experience diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain. Acupuncture points commonly used to treat intestinal imbalances include ST37, ST25, and CV6.
- ST37, also known as the Lower He Sea point of the Large Intestine, is located on the outside of the lower leg, below the knee. This point is believed to regulate the intestines, relieve abdominal pain, and improve bowel movements.
- ST25 and CV6, which were previously mentioned as spleen augmenting points, are also commonly used to treat intestinal imbalances.
Acupuncture can be a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of digestive disorders. The selection of acupuncture points for digestive disorders is based on the patient’s specific symptoms and underlying imbalances. We at Huatuo Clinic are committed to providing you with the best possible care and support on your journey towards optimal health and well-being. If you are interested in experiencing the benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine for yourself, we invite you to come visit us at our clinic. Our experienced practitioners are here to listen, understand, and tailor treatment plans to meet your individual needs. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced you
