Digestive support
Diagnosis of digestive disorders are on the increase, with studies suggesting that one such disorder, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), may affect up to 20% of the population at any one time. IBS is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea or constipation. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is suggested to involve a combination of factors, including being triggered by infections, inflammation or diet. Stress is also believed to be a causative link, which certainly fits with gut microbiome theory on how this connects with mental health.
Traditional Chinese medicine’s rich history, spanning thousands of years has always recognised the importance of the gut in relation to all areas of health and wellness, and science is now discovering similar links. Research is increasingly recognising the vital role of the gut microbiome in digestive health. The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that reside in the digestive tract. These microbes play a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and mental health.
Central to Chinese medicine’s understanding is the concept of the ‘middle palace’ theory, which emphasises how taking care of the ‘middle’ has a pivotal role in maintaining health and immune function. One Chinese physician, Zhu Dan Xi, was of the belief that all disease should be treated through the ‘middle’, and that the physiological metabolism of human beings was fundamental to this principle. This ancient description of nutrition extraction and distribution being central to health, fits well with current theories of how a healthy and diverse microbiome is essential for optimal digestion and nutrient assimilation.
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Person centred approach
Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and reflexology, offers a holistic approach to digestive support. It treats individuals as unique and looks at digestive symptoms like pain as part of a larger picture. From a detailed consultation, looking at all aspects of your health history, your practitioner can build a treatment plan based on a system of pattern differentiation. This considers the whole person, not just the symptoms they experience. This means that it not only supports the symptoms, but overall wellbeing as well.
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How we can support you
Whether you are looking to facilitate a healthier digestion, finding overall balance, seeking support for a particular symptom, or a combination of all of these, we may be able to help.
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At the initial consultation we take a closer look at all aspects of your life and health, both physical and emotional. You have the option to select acupuncture, herbal medicine, reflexology, lifestyle guidance, or a combination of those treatments. If you have already chosen a specific form of treatment, we will proceed accordingly. However, if you are uncertain, our practitioner can provide expert advice tailored to your unique needs and requirements.
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Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbal medicine, may help support the reduction of inflammation and alleviate the symptoms of abdominal pain and bloating. Acupuncture and reflexology are thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Since stress is a known trigger for digestive issues, both acupuncture and reflexology help promote relaxation, thereby may help support symptoms of digestive disorders where stress is a factor.
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If you have opted for acupuncture, your practitioner may suggest the use of moxibustion in addition to needles. Moxibustion can support the improvement in symptoms in certain cases, by bringing warmth into areas of pain or discomfort.
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For those wishing to explore a little deeper a bespoke package of treatments can be discussed. Bespoke packages provide the opportunity to explore in more detail beneficial ways to help yourself, such as addressing lifestyle choices which may not be serving you well, include providing dietary wisdom using the principles of Chinese nutritional therapy, and self-care practices to help improve wellbeing.