352: Treating Anxiety: Traditional Chinese Medicine Style
Ancient Health Podcast
Deep Dive
Why are the kidney and bladder important in managing anxiety according to Chinese medicine?
The kidney and bladder are crucial in managing anxiety because they process emotions of fear, such as dread, bad past memories, and fear of being left behind. Chronic fear can overwhelm these organs, leading to infections and malfunctions, which can result in chronic anxiety.
What physical signs might indicate kidney and bladder issues related to anxiety?
Physical signs that might indicate kidney and bladder issues related to anxiety include dark circles under the eyes, breakouts around the hairline, tight hip flexors, chronic UTIs, bladder infections, kidney stones, and chronic pelvic pain.
Why is it important to consider genetic factors when dealing with anxiety from a TCM perspective?
Considering genetic factors is important because fear and anxiety can be passed down through generations. If your parents or grandparents had issues with fear or being abandoned, it could have affected their kidney and bladder health, which in turn can impact your own anxiety levels.
How can herbs help in managing anxiety related to the kidney and bladder?
Herbs like uva ursi, dandelion, milk thistle, and cranberry can help cleanse the kidneys and bladder of infections, supplying enough energy to these organs to help process fears and reduce anxiety.
Why is the relationship between the kidneys and adrenal glands significant in managing anxiety?
The relationship is significant because the adrenal glands, which produce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, sit on top of the kidneys. In Chinese medicine, they are seen as one unit. When the adrenal glands are overworked, it can wear out the kidneys, leading to a weakened state and increased anxiety.
What role does the stomach, spleen, and pancreas play in anxiety according to Chinese medicine?
The stomach, spleen, and pancreas are associated with worry and pensiveness. Chronic stress and a tight diaphragm can reduce their ability to produce digestive enzymes, leading to undigested food, leaky gut, and infections. This can contribute to anxiety.
What physical signs might indicate issues with the stomach, spleen, and pancreas related to anxiety?
Physical signs include tightness in the stomach, chronic sinus issues, breakouts or pimples around the upper cheek, chapped lips, and puffy red lips. These signs indicate that the energy around the stomach, spleen, and pancreas is deficient or blocked.
How can herbs help in managing anxiety related to the stomach, spleen, and pancreas?
Herbs like Malia Supreme (Neem), Morinda Supreme (Noni), Slippery Elm, aloe vera, chlorophyll, and licorice root can help nourish and heal the stomach lining, reduce infections, and improve digestion, thereby reducing anxiety.
- Kidneys process emotions of fear in TCM.
- Physical signs like dark circles and pimples around the hairline may indicate kidney issues.
- Herbs like uva ursi, dandelion, milk thistle, and cranberry can support kidney health.
Shownotes Transcript