Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal health affects the entire body inside out, from the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems to the skin. The GI tract not only digests and absorbs nutrients; it is also the seat of our immune system.
In TCM, digestive health is closely linked to the spleen and stomach, which are responsible for transforming food into energy and transporting nutrients throughout the body. Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM) is uniquely effective in treating gastrointestinal issues because it addresses the complex gut-brain axis—a network that links the endocrine, immune, and autonomic nervous systems. These connections influence the emotional and physical pattern that manifests in your body. That pattern varies from person to person, requiring an individualized approach to bring balance back to the mind and body through acupuncture, herbs, diet, and lifestyle counseling. Our practitioners have 50+ years of collective clinical experience, and our experience in gastrointestinal health includes treatment for:
Irritable bowel syndrome
Abdominal pain
Heartburn and acid reflux
Nausea
Diarrhea and constipation
as well as constipation in babies opioid-induced constipation, and other serious conditions such as Crohn’s disease and diverticulitis.
One of the primary modalities used in WS-TCM for treating GI issues is acupuncture. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints along the body's meridians, acupuncture stimulates the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, promoting balance and alleviating symptoms. For GI conditions, acupoints located on the abdomen and limbs may be targeted to regulate digestive function, reduce inflammation, and relieve discomfort. Acupuncture for gastrointestinal issues can also help address underlying factors contributing to GI symptoms, such as stress, emotional tension, and hormonal imbalances.
Herbal medicine is another cornerstone of WS-TCM treatment for GI issues. Garden Acupuncture prescribes customized herbal formulas tailored to each individual's unique pattern of disharmony. These herbal remedies often consist of a combination of plant-based ingredients known for their digestive properties, such as ginger, licorice, peppermint, and Chinese rhubarb. Herbal formulas work synergistically to strengthen the spleen and stomach, improve digestion, regulate bowel movements, and soothe gastrointestinal inflammation. Additionally, herbs with antibacterial and antiviral properties may be included to address infections or imbalances in gut flora.
Dietary therapy is an integral aspect of WS-TCM treatment for GI health. WS-TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced and harmonious diet to support digestive function and overall well-being. Dietary recommendations often include consuming warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest, such as soups, stews, steamed vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding cold or raw foods, excessive greasy or spicy foods and overeating can help prevent digestive disturbances and promote optimal GI function. Garden Acupuncture also provides guidance on specific foods and herbs to include or avoid based on individual constitution and patterns of disharmony.
In addition to acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy, WS-TCM treatment for GI issues may incorporate lifestyle modifications and mind-body practices to support digestive health. Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, qigong, and tai chi can help alleviate emotional tension and promote relaxation, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion. Regular physical activity and adequate sleep are also important for supporting GI function and overall well-being.
WS-TCM attends to diet, nutrition, lifestyle, and stress on a person-by-person basis. Once we assess and determine your individual pattern, a diagnosis emerges. We then structure an appropriate plan to treat your pattern and alleviate your symptoms. This 3-month program may consist of:
Individualized Treatment
24 Acupuncture Treatments
6 Customized Chinese Herbal Formulas
Gua-Sha, Tui Na, Cupping & Ear Seeds
Information & Education
Alongside TCM therapies, restoration of proper digestion may require diet and lifestyle modifications, such as stress management, regular exercise, and healthy sleep patterns.
— Chaya M., Brooklyn
