What Are Some Commonly Used Treatments in Traditional Chinese Medicine To Relieve Constipation?
Oct 10, 2023
Constipation is a condition in which stool is not passed smoothly or is difficult to pass. Generally speaking, the normal frequency and shape of bowel movements vary from person to person, but 1-3 bowel movements per day are generally considered to be within the normal range. The main characteristics of constipation include difficulty defecating, dry and hard stools, taking too long to defecate, having to strain to defecate, and feeling that the intestines are not empty.
What are the causes of constipation?
The causes of constipation vary and can be temporary or long-term. Some common reasons include:
1. Dehydration: Insufficient drinking, excessive water loss, excessive urination, etc. will lead to insufficient water in the body, causing the stool to become dry in the intestines, leading to constipation.
2. Eating habits: Lack of fiber in the diet, excessive intake of highly processed foods, and low intake of high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables can all cause constipation.
3. Lifestyle habits: Lack of exercise and physical activity, sitting or lying in bed for a long time, and not paying attention to regular eating and defecation habits will increase the risk of constipation.
4. Drug side effects: Certain drugs, especially antibiotics, antidepressants, analgesics, etc., can affect intestinal peristalsis and cause constipation.
5. Intestinal diseases: Some intestinal diseases, such as colon diverticula, rectal prolapse, intestinal tumors, etc., can affect defecation and cause constipation.
Constipation has a certain impact on physical health. Long-term constipation may cause symptoms such as gastric bloating, bloating, abdominal pain, mental fatigue, and loss of appetite. In addition, long-term chronic constipation can also increase the risk of intestinal diseases such as colon polyps, rectal prolapse, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and colon cancer.
What are the methods of traditional Chinese medicine to relieve constipation?
There are various methods of comprehensive treatment of constipation using traditional Chinese medicine. Selecting appropriate traditional Chinese medicine treatment methods according to the condition and different individuals can achieve good results. The following is an introduction to commonly used TCM treatments to relieve constipation.
1. Dietary conditioning: Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes dietary conditioning, which is especially important for patients with constipation. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that constipation is mainly caused by spleen and stomach dysfunction, blood stasis, intestinal dampness, and heat. Therefore, you need to pay attention to a balanced diet, choose more foods that are easy to digest and absorb, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, etc., reduce the intake of greasy foods, and avoid overeating. In addition, you need to maintain a regular diet, eat regularly and quantitatively, and avoid overeating.
2. Chinese herbal medicine treatment: Chinese herbal medicine is one of the common methods of treating constipation in traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that constipation is caused by spleen and stomach dysfunction, qi stagnation, dampness heat, etc. The use of Chinese herbal medicine can harmonize the spleen and stomach, activate blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and clear away heat and diuresis, thereby achieving the effect of laxatives and detoxification. Commonly used Chinese herbal medicines include Glauber's salt, rhubarb, Citrus aurantium, raw rhubarb, almonds, etc., which can be used according to the specific condition and constitution.
3. Acupuncture therapy: Acupuncture is one of the commonly used treatment methods in traditional Chinese medicine, and it also has a good effect on relieving constipation. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and blood, and improve the function of the spleen and stomach, thereby achieving a laxative effect. Commonly used acupuncture points include Dazhui, Guanyuan, Zusanli, etc. Different acupuncture points are selected according to different conditions.
4. Massage: Massage is a commonly used treatment method in traditional Chinese medicine, and it also has a certain effect on relieving constipation. Massaging the abdomen can stimulate intestinal movement and promote defecation. Commonly used massage techniques include abdominal rubbing, abdominal pushing, Zusanli massage, etc., which can be selected and used according to the specific situation.
5. Warm moxibustion: Warm moxibustion is another common method used by traditional Chinese medicine to treat constipation. Applying hot moxa leaf moxibustion on the peri umbilicus, belly button, and other parts, can stimulate the abdominal meridians, promote the circulation of qi and blood, and improve the function of the spleen and stomach, thereby achieving a laxative effect. Warm and hot moxibustion is mainly suitable for constipation caused by a weak spleen and stomach, cold-dampness blockage, and other types of constipation.
In addition to the above methods, traditional Chinese medicine also emphasizes comprehensive treatment methods such as regulating emotions and maintaining good living habits. For example, you should keep your mood happy and not depressed, avoid sitting for long periods, maintain moderate exercise, and massage your abdomen regularly. These methods can help improve the circulation of qi and blood in the body, adjust the function of the spleen and stomach, and relieve constipation symptoms.
It should be noted that TCM treatment of constipation requires the selection of appropriate methods based on individual circumstances and under the guidance of professional doctors. Patients with severe constipation symptoms or other complications should seek medical treatment promptly and receive treatment from a professional doctor.
Warm reminder: For constipation symptoms, you should seek timely diagnosis and treatment from a doctor. The doctor will conduct detailed consultation, physical examination, and necessary auxiliary examinations based on the patient's specific situation to determine the cause and formulate a reasonable treatment plan. In addition, good eating habits, moderate exercise, and maintaining adequate fluid intake can also help relieve constipation.
Natural Herbal Medicine For Relieving Constipation-Cistanche
Cistanche is a genus of parasitic plants that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. These plants are known for their medicinal properties and have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. Cistanche species are predominantly found in arid and desert regions of China, Mongolia, and other parts of Central Asia. Cistanche plants are characterized by their fleshy, yellowish stems and are highly valued for their potential health benefits. In TCM, Cistanche is believed to have tonic properties and is commonly used to nourish the kidney, enhance vitality, and support sexual function. It is also used to address issues related to aging, fatigue, and overall well-being. While Cistanche has a long history of use in traditional medicine, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is ongoing and limited. However, it is known to contain various bioactive compounds such as phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids, lignans, and polysaccharides, which may contribute to its medicinal effects.
Wecistanche's cistanche powder, cistanche tablets, cistanche capsules, and other products are developed using desert cistanche as raw materials, all of which have a good effect on relieving constipation. The specific mechanism is as follows: Cistanche is believed to have potential benefits for relieving constipation based on its traditional use and certain compounds it contains. While scientific research specifically on Cistanche's effect on constipation is limited, it is thought to have multiple mechanisms that may contribute to its potential to relieve constipation. Laxative Effect: Cistanche has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for constipation. It is believed to have a mild laxative effect, which can help promote bowel movements and induce constipation. This effect may be attributed to various compounds found in Cistanche, such as phenylethanoid glycosides and polysaccharides. Moistening the Intestines: Based on traditional use, Cistanche is considered to have moisturizing properties, specifically targeting the Intestines. Promoting hydration and lubrication of the Intestines may help soften tools and facilitate easier passage, thereby relieving constipation. Anti-inflammatory Effect: Constipation can sometimes be associated with inflammation in the digestive tract. Cistanche contains certain compounds, including phenylethanoid glycosides and lignans, that are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the intestines, it may help improve bowel movement regularity and relieve constipation.
