One of the most common reasons people seek Chinese medical care is for chronic digestive issues. And one of the most common digestive issues that I see in my office each week is constipation. Many of us are uncomfortable talking about our bowel movements but I view this as a crucial, objective way to see how the body is digesting its energy source. So I hope you’re not too hesitant to keep reading ahead to learn another way to look at this common struggle many of us privately endure. Constipation can be understood as having less than three bowel movements in a week and when a bowel movement does occur it may be difficult to pass, small in size, or in dry, hard pieces
Bulk, Fluid, and Movement
When there is constipation, there may be a lack of fluids in our waste product or a lack of coordinated movement of the surrounding organ. This may be a simplistic understanding for our purposes here and speaking to the gastroenterologist may be more expansive. We know of a certain amount of fiber needed to provide the bulk in our waste. So those who struggle with constipation often take fiber supplements or try to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables. This fiber will soften the stool and help it move smoother through the colon. Also more intake of water is encouraged to provide enough moisture. So there is the need for enough moisture, bulk, and coordinated movement to allow our waste product to move effectively through the entire colon. This drier time of year with the outdoor air, as well as the heating in our homes and buildings, is adding to people’s tendency toward constipation. You may surprisingly find the need to drink more water than usual during the winter months.
Different Branches of the Same Tree
A basic concept when looking at the body through the lens of Chinese Medicine is to view the elimination of waste as a whole system. Waste happens through the lungs, the skin, the nose, and the large intestine, to name a few. These are all considered part of the same system of waste elimination rather than physical organs that act separately and don’t affect each other. It’s surprisingly common to see signs of imbalance in these various organs that you may not necessarily relate to each other. In Chinese medical understanding, we would consider such symptoms as constipation, sinusitis, eczema, and asthma to be different branches of the same tree.
Use of Chinese Medicine for Constipation
Certain Chinese herbs have supportive actions to encourage the smooth movement of our waste products. Such herbs are used in combinations, sometimes up to fifteen herbs together, rather than in singular form. It’s the synergistic effect of the combination that truly makes the herbs effective, though individual herbs are known to have specific properties. Chinese rhubarb is an example of an herb that has a downward, purging effect, while apricot seed is moistening to the intestines. This pair is often used together, along with other herbs, as part of a common formula used for constipation. Herbs are often taken in tea form as a powdered combination mixed in water, or the raw herbs are soaked and boiled for tea. Herbs also can be taken in capsule, tablet, or tincture form.
Specific points stimulated by acupuncture needles or even with the thumb are effective at regulating the functioning of the large intestine. They can stimulate movement and even help retain fluid for use in moving the stool. You may be familiar with the point located in the muscle between the thumb and index fingers. Strong circular pressure on this point can encourage the large intestine’s activity. Another point stimulated to help regulate bowel movements is on either side of the navel. The Chinese names given to these points on the body thousands of years ago reflect their function and effect when stimulated. Acupressure is the kneading of the points typically with our thumb, while acupuncture is the use of fine, stainless steel needles inserted in the muscles at these specific points.
Constipation is a very common symptom that most people have experienced, and some of you may be seeing this more noticeably during this change of season. Aside from increasing your water intake and eating more fruits and vegetables, acupuncture and herbs are also effective tools for support. Hopefully, you can continue using the comforting wood stove at home while keeping a healthy process of elimination in your body.