By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
Menstrual cramps, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain, are a common issue for many women during their menstrual cycle. While over-the-counter pain medications can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of the pain. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a natural alternative that targets the root causes of menstrual cramps, promoting overall wellness and improving the quality of life for women.
According to TCM, menstrual cramps are due to imbalances of Qi and Blood, affecting the functions of vital organs such as the Kidney, Liver, and Spleen. TCM practitioners aim to identify and treat the root cause of the condition, considering the patient’s overall health, diet, and emotional state.
Chong and Ren Meridians: The Chong meridian nourishes the uterus, while the Ren meridian regulates the menstrual cycle. When Qi and Blood are deficient, they cannot properly nourish these meridians, leading to menstrual cramps.
Role of the Spleen: The Spleen plays a key role in digesting food and producing Qi and Blood. Irregular meals and overconsumption of cold drinks or cooling food can lead to Spleen deficiency. This deficiency affects the production of Qi and Blood, resulting in insufficient Blood for menstruation, light flow, irregular periods, and menstrual cramps.
Function of the Liver: The Liver is vital for regulating the female menstrual cycle. It manages the flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body, including the Chong and Ren meridians.
Impact of Stagnation: Stagnation of Liver Qi can cause imbalances that lead to painful periods, irregular periods, and blood clots, hindering a healthy menstrual cycle.
Pathogenic Factors: Coldness and Dampness are common pathogenic factors in TCM that can obstruct the flow of Qi and compromise blood circulation, leading to blood clots and menstrual irregularities.
TCM employs both traditional and modern treatments to restore balance, improve blood circulation, and alleviate menstrual pain.
Method: Moxibustion involves burning a small amount of mugwort over specific acupoints on the body.
Benefits: This treatment warms the womb and dispels coldness, promoting blood circulation for healthier menstrual cycles.
Advancement: As technology advances, TCM has adopted new therapies like Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT).
Method: This non-invasive modality promotes lymphatic flow and drainage.
Benefits: Enhances blood circulation and reduces inflammation, particularly beneficial for conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids that cause inflammation and menstrual cramps.
Method: Negative Ion Therapy uses negatively charged ions to enhance wellness by improving cell metabolism and rejuvenation, resulting in healthier red blood cells.
Benefits: This therapy addresses blood deficiency and promotes blood circulation, alleviating menstrual cramps.
Many women experience menstrual cramps and discomfort during their cycle. While some discomfort is normal, several lifestyle changes can help alleviate pain and promote a painless menstrual cycle.
At Aston Clinic London, our herbalists and acupuncturists offer personalised guidance and support to alleviate menstrual cramps and enhance overall reproductive health. We recommend specific herbs and acupuncture treatments tailored to your unique health needs.
In addition to these treatments, we provide advice on nutrition, hydration, exercise, and stress management, empowering you to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Our holistic approach aims to address the root causes of menstrual discomfort, promoting long-term wellness and a smoother menstrual cycle.
To book a session with our practitioners, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at 020 8942 3148 to learn how our treatments can benefit you.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
