As the days get shorter, it is common to feel your overall energy level
decrease. This is a natural response, but if it starts negatively affecting
your days, there may be an energy imbalance contributing to your tiredness.
To treat fatigue, traditional Chinese medicine uses several modalities,
including acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal formulas and nutrition. To
determine the right treatment, a diagnosis must be made first. Diagnosing in
TCM is quite different from conventional medicine. TCM looks at the patient
holistically, considering all aspects, including the mind, the body and the
environment of the person.
Acupuncture for Fatigue:
Acupuncture is used to balance the energy within the body. Specifically,
acupuncture is used to remove blockages and to improve blood circulation
and oxygenation to the cells, all of which can be contributing factors to fatigue.
Studies show acupuncture also increases serotonin levels, which help with
sleep. Acupuncture improves mood, lessens pain and boosts the immune
system, all of which are factors that can affect a person’s energy levels.
Acupuncture Points for Fatigue:
Yin Tang – Yin Tang is located directly between the inner edges of the
eyebrows. It is a reflex point of the pituitary gland. Yin Tang calms the mind and
relaxes the body by helping control hormone secretions, which can aid in more
peaceful sleep.
Governor Vessel 20 – There’s a tender spot on the top of your head, also
called DU20, right at the vertex. To find it, bring your thumbs behind your ears
with the palms facing out (making a “moose head” type shape) and bring your
fingers together. Where your index fingers meet is near DU20. Feel around for
a tender spot, and you’ve found it.
Stomach 36 – This point is located bilaterally on the outer side of the lower leg,
about 4 finger-widths from the lower border of the patella or kneecap. This point
is considered an overall energy and immune-boosting point.
Chinese Herbs for Fatigue:
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is often prescribed for fatigue. This form ula is
particularly helpful at increasing energy within the kidney and liver
energetic pathways. Another popular formula for fatigue is Si Jun Zi Tang.
This formula helps increase energy by clearing out excess phlegm and
dampness in the body.
TCM Nutrition for Fatigue:
When it comes to fatigue, nutrition for the spleen, liver and kidneys is particularly
crucial. The kidneys are the source of our vital essence. The ilver and spleen help
produce blood and vital energy that sustains the body. Foods lkie black beans,
kidney beans, asparagus, plums, blueberries and blackberries are all beneficial
for strengthening the kidneys. Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are good
for building blood and energy via the liver and spleen. Sweet potatoes, squash,
pumpkin, quinoa and oats are all good for tonifying the spleen. Also, healthy oils
and fats such as avocado, salmon and coconut oil can be very beneficial.
