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357: [Repost] Intro to Women’s Hormones from a Chinese Medicine Perspective | Dr. Chloe Weber
Ancient Health Podcast
Deep Dive
Why is Chinese medicine important for women's health?
Chinese medicine addresses the root causes of hormonal and reproductive disorders by focusing on the body's innate intelligence and dynamic function. It supports natural hormonal regulation without the side effects of birth control, honoring the unique cycles and seasons of a woman's life.
What are the four key organs in Chinese medicine for women's health?
The four key organs are the liver, spleen, heart, and kidneys. The liver manages the flow of qi and blood, the spleen handles digestion and emotion processing, the heart regulates menstrual cycles, and the kidneys provide foundational energy for reproductive health.
How does stress affect women's hormonal health according to Chinese medicine?
Stress impacts both digestion and hormones, as the liver and spleen are closely linked. High stress can lead to qi stagnation, poor digestion, and hormonal imbalances, which are common causes of menstrual issues and reproductive disorders.
What role do emotions play in Chinese medicine for women's health?
Emotions are directly tied to organ health. For example, anger affects the liver, worry impacts the spleen, joy affects the heart, and fear impacts the kidneys. Imbalanced emotions can disrupt hormonal cycles and overall health.
How does diet affect hormonal health in Chinese medicine?
Diet plays a crucial role in digestion and hormonal balance. Foods like sweets, cold or damp foods, and processed items can disrupt spleen function, leading to hormonal imbalances. Supporting digestion with warm, balanced foods helps maintain hormonal health.
What is the significance of the kidneys in reproductive health?
The kidneys store Jing, or reproductive essence, which is foundational energy for life and fertility. Kidney health is vital for hormonal balance, energy production, and overall reproductive function.
How does Chinese medicine treat UTIs?
Chinese medicine views UTIs as damp heat in the bladder. Herbal formulas like Ba Zhang San have been used for thousands of years to effectively treat UTIs by clearing damp heat and supporting bladder function.
What is the emotional connection to the heart in Chinese medicine?
The heart is associated with joy. While joy is important, too much of it can lead to imbalance. The heart also governs the blood and ensures a smooth menstrual cycle, so emotional balance is crucial for hormonal health.
How does Chinese medicine differ from Western medicine in treating hormonal issues?
Western medicine often focuses on individual pathways or chemicals, while Chinese medicine looks at the body as a whole, including emotional, digestive, and energetic aspects. It provides a more holistic approach to hormonal balance.
What is the significance of the spleen in Chinese medicine for women's health?
The spleen is responsible for digestion and emotion processing. Imbalances, such as spleen qi deficiency, can lead to overthinking, weight gain, and damp stagnation, all of which affect hormonal health.
Shownotes Transcript