Diabetes : How Chinese Medicine Can Help Combat the Disease

It is believed that up to one third of the world’s population is affected by Diabetes. Simply put, Diabetes is an endocrine disorder that creates a rise in blood glucose levels. Its long-term complications can involve your eyes, heart, circulation, nervous system, and kidneys.

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that Diabetes is brought about by a Yin deficiency. This deficiency is caused by dryness, heat and dampness that are reflected in high blood glucose levels.

You may remember that Yin and Yang are the opposing forces that make up Qi, or the energy that flows in you body. When they become unbalanced, it is believed that is when illness strikes.

In Chinese medicine, it is believed that Diabetes is very closely related to Wasting Syndrome, It can be broken down into Upper, Middle and Lower Wasting Syndrome which correlate to your lungs, stomach and kidneys.

Upper Wasting Syndrome is defined by the heat in your lungs drying up body fluids. Look for symptoms like fidgeting, excessive water intake and a dry, red tongue with or without cracks that has a yellow coat. Your pulse will feel forceful and rapid.

Middle Wasting Syndrome is defined by stomach fire damaging fluids. Look for symptoms of increased thirst, constant hunger, and a good appetite. Your tongue will be red with a yellow coat. Your pulse will feel rapid.

Lower Wasting Syndrome is divided into Kidney Yin Deficiency and Kidney Yin and Yang Deficiency. With Kidney Yin Deficiency, you should look for increased urinary frequency in excessive amounts, (frequently at night), and a red tongue with little or no coat. Your pulse will feel deep, thready and rapid. With Kidney Yin and Yang Deficiency, you should look for increased urinary frequency in excessive amounts, (frequently at night). Your tongue will have teeth marks on both sides and will be pale red with a white coat. Your pulse will feel deep, thready and weak.

You may be asking yourself, “Now what?”

Chinese medicine often relies on herbs to bring your energy back into balance. It is reported that you may respond to this type of treatment within four weeks or so. It does vary from person to person.

Herbs commonly used in various combinations for these purposes are American Ginseng, Gypsum, Anemarrhena, Scrophularia, Astragalus, Atraclylodes, Salvia Root, Carthamus, Lotus Embryo, and Lotus Stamen.

Reportedly, Chinese medicine believes that high blood glucose levels are equivalent to a lot of dampness in the body. The herbs are used to replenish Qi, your energy force, and strengthen your spleen to get rid of the dampness.

Chinese herbal combinations are available at most health food stores and at various sites on the web. Your acupuncturist can help pinpoint your diagnosis.

Always consult your health care professional before beginning any alternative health care program.