Qi and Blood Deficiency: Herbal Remedies for Irregular Menstruation

Q: Qi and Blood Deficiency: Herbal Remedies for Irregular Menstruation

Ms. <br>A： Based on your description, you may consider using Angelica Sinensis Blood Nourishing Soup for conditioning, which includes 1 tael of Astragalus, 2 qian of Angelica Sinensis, along with five pieces of red dates and an appropriate amount of goji berries, simmered with ch

My condition?

I have had irregular menstrual periods for over a year, and there was a time when I didn't have my period for six months.
Now, I only get my period when I take medication; if I don't take it, my period doesn't come.
I experience mild constipation, my nails lack luster, and I feel cold in winter with cold hands and feet, but not in summer.
I also feel that my upper abdomen is quite distended, and I sometimes experience bloating.
Occasionally, I feel a tightness in my chest.
Once, while riding my bike home from school, I felt short of breath in the middle of the road, and when I got home and sat down, I was even more breathless.
That was the most severe episode, but I often feel very tired.
I have consulted two traditional Chinese medicine doctors; one said I have Qi deficiency, and the other said I have both Qi and Yin deficiency.
However, based on the information I found online, I feel that I might have both Qi and Blood deficiency, as this seems to align more with my symptoms.
Given the differing opinions of the two doctors, what kind of herbal medicine should I take?

Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/22

Dr. Chen Weili reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Ms.
A: Based on your description, you may consider using Angelica Sinensis Blood Nourishing Soup for conditioning, which includes 1 tael of Astragalus, 2 qian of Angelica Sinensis, along with five pieces of red dates and an appropriate amount of goji berries, simmered with chicken thighs.
This is suitable for those with both Qi and blood deficiency.
Of course, Ba Zhen Tang and Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang are also options.
It is best to consult a nearby Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for a prescription that better meets your needs.
Additionally, the prominence of your upper abdomen may be related to your dietary habits.
Besides reducing the intake of cold foods, it is advisable to eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid binge eating.
If you experience significant bloating, please seek medical attention promptly.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2002/08/22

More Info

Understanding Qi and Blood Deficiency: Herbal Remedies for Irregular Menstruation
It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that may be related to deficiencies in Qi (energy) and Blood, which are concepts rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Irregular menstruation, fatigue, cold extremities, and digestive issues like constipation can indeed be indicative of these deficiencies.
In TCM, Qi is considered the vital energy that flows through the body, while Blood nourishes and supports the organs and tissues. When either of these is deficient, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including menstrual irregularities. Your symptoms, such as the coldness in your hands and feet, lack of luster in your nails, and feelings of fatigue, suggest that you may have both Qi and Blood deficiency.

Herbal Remedies
1. Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): Often referred to as "female ginseng," Dang Gui is a powerful herb used to nourish and invigorate the Blood. It is commonly used in formulas for menstrual irregularities and can help improve circulation, which may alleviate some of the coldness you experience in your extremities.

2. Ren Shen (Ginseng): This herb is known for its ability to tonify Qi. It can help boost energy levels and improve overall vitality. If your Qi is deficient, Ren Shen may help you feel more energized and less fatigued.

3. Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Macrocephala): This herb is used to strengthen the Spleen and Qi. It can help with digestive issues, including constipation, which you mentioned. A healthy Spleen function is crucial for the production of Qi and Blood.

4. Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Glutinosa): This herb is particularly effective for nourishing Blood. It can help address symptoms related to Blood deficiency, such as fatigue and irregular menstruation.

5. He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti): Known for its blood-nourishing properties, He Shou Wu can also help with hair health and vitality. It is often included in formulas aimed at restoring balance to the body.

Suggested Herbal Formulas
- Ba Zhen Tang (Eight Treasure Decoction): This classic formula is designed to tonify both Qi and Blood. It is often recommended for women with irregular menstruation and can help alleviate symptoms of fatigue and coldness.

- Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction): This formula is excellent for those with Spleen Qi deficiency and Blood deficiency. It can help improve digestion, boost energy, and regulate menstruation.

Lifestyle Recommendations
In addition to herbal remedies, consider the following lifestyle changes:
- Diet: Incorporate foods that nourish Blood and Qi, such as dark leafy greens, beets, red meat, and legumes. Warm, cooked foods are generally better for digestion than cold or raw foods.

- Exercise: Gentle exercises like Tai Chi or yoga can help improve circulation and Qi flow without overexerting yourself.

- Stress Management: Practices such as meditation or deep breathing can help reduce stress, which can exacerbate Qi deficiency.

Conclusion
Given the complexity of your symptoms and the differing opinions from the two TCM practitioners, it may be beneficial to consult a qualified herbalist or TCM practitioner who can provide a personalized treatment plan. They can help you determine the most appropriate herbs and formulas based on a thorough assessment of your condition. Remember, while herbal remedies can be effective, they should be used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you are currently taking medications or have underlying health conditions.

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