Chinese Theory behind use of Acupuncture to Restore Hormones
Jing is known as essence and has three main energy components one of which is related to your hormones. Jing is also responsible for keeping the mind, body and spirit in balance. Yin balances the blood and fluids in your body and yang balances the energy and warmth of the body. Chinese theory sees Jing as being housed in the kidney’s which is one of the organ systems that are responsible for regulating hormones. During the course of the lifetime Jing is what is responsible for nourishing cells, tissues and organs. When the hormones are imbalanced the Jing or (essence) depletes and therefore, the goal in Chinese medicine is to restore Jing.
Acupuncture VS HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
Acupuncture is a natural way to balance out hormones. Acupuncture achieves this balance by redirecting the flow of energy so that your body can be guided into healing
itself. HRT in Western medicine uses an artificial substance to regulate hormones and can come with potential complications such as heart problems, stroke, and blood clots.
Benefits of Acupuncture to Balance Hormones
When the hormones are not in balance you can experience fatigue, low libido, depression, mood swings, fluctuating menstruation, weight gain or weight loss among other experiences. When it comes to balancing hormones, acupuncture restores this balance by targeting the liver which is responsible for our metabolism and emotions. It also regulates the body for example by removing heat from dilated blood vessels thus, reducing blood pressure. Acupuncture to regulate hormones is beneficial because it restores balance, promotes relaxation reducing stress, anxiety and muscle tension. Additional benefits include;
- Reduction of PMS symptoms
- Reductions of symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, insomnia, headache)
- For men it can reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism.
What to Expect
Your acupuncturist will evaluate you by checking your pulse or tongue to better understand the hormonal imbalance. A treatment plan will be formed that will aid your body in balancing itself out. Herbs, teas, diets and an exercise plan may all be suggestions from your acupuncturist.