Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to women's health, focusing on balance and preventing disharmony within the body. To fully understand women's health along the lines of Chinese medicine, it is important to take note of Tiangui.
Tiangui (天癸) translates literally to "Heavenly Water", is a concept representing the essence of the Kidneys. It’s divided in 7-year cycles for women and 8-year cycles for men.
Tiangui plays a vital role in growth, development, and aging. This aligns with the concept of the endocrine system in contemporary medicine, where hormones secreted by glands like the pituitary regulate these processes.
A healthy balance of Kidney Qi and Tiangui is believed to be essential for normal development. The Nei Jing, a foundational TCM text, describes stages of growth influenced by the Kidneys. For example, "at three times seven [21 years old], the Kidney Qi is average, thus the teeth have fully grown and matured to the fullest." This reflects a TCM perspective on how the Kidneys support physiological development, which can be seen as complementary to the understanding of hormonal development in contemporary medicine.
Tiangui's functions in women’s health:
- Source: It's rooted in the Prenatal Essence stored in the Kidneys, established before birth.
- Nourishment: It's further nourished by the Postnatal Essence acquired from food and digestion.
- Function: It governs menstruation, ovulation, fertility, and sexual function.
- Balance: A healthy level of Tiangui is crucial for regular menstrual cycles, egg quality, and overall reproductive health.
Signs of Tiangui Imbalance:
- Irregular or scanty menstruation
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Low libido
- Premature menopause
Maintaining Tiangui Balance:
TCM doesn't directly measure Tiangui levels. However, they can assess its health based on your symptoms and overall health. Here are some dos and don'ts to support Tiangui balance:
DOs
- Nourish Yin
Yin energy represents coolness, calmness, and receptivity. In women, it's associated with menstruation, fertility, and overall vitality. Consume Yin-nourishing foods like leafy greens, root vegetables, eggs, mushrooms, legumes, seaweed, and broths. Sleep before 11PM to support and nurture your Yin. Prioritize getting enough quality sleep. - Support Kidney Jing
Kidney Jing is considered the yin essence directly related to sexual health. Prioritize rest and sleep, conserve energy, practice moderate sexual activity, and keep warm to support optinal Kidney essence. - Get Regular Acupuncture
Acupuncture can regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate PMS symptoms, and support fertility. - Listen to Your Body's Energetic Cues
Learn to recognize signs of energetic imbalances, like fatigue or bloating, and adjust your diet or activities accordingly. - Herbs
Consult a TCM practitioner for herbal formulas to address various concerns. Common TCM herbs for women's health include Chinese Angelica root, and red dates for blood flow and white peony for emotional balance. - Keep Warm
It’s important to keep yourself warm at all times. Wear socks and use warm packs on your lower back and abdomen during menstruation if you tend to feel cold and have cramps. - Prioritize Self-Care
Practices like meditation, yoga, and Qigong cultivate inner peace and promote hormonal balance.
Common TCM herbs for women's health include Chinese Angelica root, and red dates for blood flow and white peony for emotional balance.
DON'Ts
- Overwork or Overstimulate
Excessive activity depletes Yin energy. Ensure adequate rest, prioritize sleep, and avoid overexertion during menstruation. - Indulge in "Cold" or "Damp" Foods
TCM categorizes foods by their energetic properties. Avoid excessive cold foods like dairy or processed foods that can create dampness, linked to bloating and sluggishness. - Ignore Emotional Wellbeing
TCM acknowledges the mind-body connection. Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance. Practice stress management techniques and prioritize emotional well-being. - Self-Prescribe Herbs
TCM herbs can have interactions or contraindications. Always consult a qualified practitioner for herbal recommendations.
Advanced Practice:
- Learn about your constitution
TCM recognizes nine main body constitutions, each reflecting a unique balance of energy (qi), yin, and yang. Understanding your constitution is a cornerstone of TCM wellness, allowing for personalized dietary, lifestyle, and treatment recommendations. - Explore seasonal living
TCM emphasizes living in harmony with nature. Adjust your diet and activities according to the seasons.
Disclaimer: This is an introduction to TCM for women's health and while Tiangui is a valuable concept in TCM, it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you're experiencing fertility issues or menstrual irregularities, consult a licensed healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation.
