Hey there! If you’re on a journey to lose weight, you’re not alone. Weight loss can feel like a daunting task, especially with so many diets, workouts, and supplements out there. But have you ever considered turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for a more holistic approach? TCM has been around for thousands of years and offers a unique perspective on health and wellness. Today, we’ll explore how TCM can help with weight loss, recommend some herbs and remedies, and even suggest a fascinating book to add to your reading list.
How TCM Views Weight Loss
In TCM, weight gain is often seen as a sign of imbalance in the body. It could be due to a sluggish digestive system, poor circulation, or even emotional factors like stress. The goal of TCM is to restore balance and harmony within the body, which in turn can help with weight loss. This is achieved through a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments.
Acupuncture for Weight Loss
Acupuncture is one of the most popular TCM treatments for weight management. By stimulating specific acupoints, acupuncture can:
- Boost metabolism
- Reduce cravings
- Improve digestion
- Regulate hormones and reduce stress-related overeating
Some commonly used acupoints for weight loss include:
- Zusanli (ST36, 足三里) is located about four finger-widths below the kneecap and one finger-width to the outer side of the shinbone.
- Sanyinjiao (SP6, 三阴交) is located four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, just behind the shinbone.
- Zhongwan (CV12, 中脘) is located on the midline of the abdomen, about four finger-widths above the navel.
All of which support digestion and metabolism. You can try these acupoints daily with acupressure too.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Weight Loss
Here are some commonly used herbs in TCM that can aid in weight loss:
- Jue Ming Zi (决明子) – Cassia Seed
- Benefits: Supports digestion, detoxifies the liver, and helps with constipation.
- How to Use: Can be steeped in hot water to make a tea or added to soups, or other dishes.
- Shan Yao (山药) – Chinese Yam
- Benefits: Strengthens the spleen and improves digestion, preventing weight gain.
- How to Use: Often used in soups or porridge.
- Yi Yi Ren (薏苡仁) – Chinese Pearl Barley/ Coix Seed
- Benefits: Reduces water retention and dampness in the body.
- How to Use: Boil coix seeds to make a tea, or add to your rice while cooking.
- He Ye (荷叶) – Lotus Leaf
- Benefits: Helps to reduce fat absorption, promotes digestion, and has a mild diuretic effect.
- How to Use: Brew dried lotus leaves in hot water to make a tea. Drink it before or after meals.
- Shan Zha (山楂) – Hawthorn Berry
- Benefits: Aids digestion, reduces cholesterol, and helps break down fats.
- How to Use: You can find hawthorn berry in teas, capsules, or even as a snack. It’s also commonly used in TCM formulas.
- Chen Pi (陈皮) – Dried Tangerine Peel
- Benefits: Improves digestion, reduces bloating, and helps to regulate Qi (energy flow).
- How to Use: Add dried tangerine peel to soups or teas. It’s also available in powdered form.
- Fu Ling (茯苓) – Poria Mushroom
- Benefits: Acts as a diuretic, reduces water retention, and supports the spleen.
- How to Use: Often used in soups or as part of a herbal formula.
- Da Huang (大黄) – Rhubarb Root
- Benefits: Promotes bowel movements and detoxifies the body.
- How to Use: This herb should be used with caution and under the guidance of a TCM practitioner, as it can be quite strong.
Simple TCM Herbal Remedies for Weight Loss
Hawthorn & Poria Slimming Tea (山楂茯苓消脂茶)
Ingredients:
- 10g Hawthorn Berry
- 10g Poria Mushroom
- 5g Lotus Leaf
- 5g Dried Tangerine Peel
Instructions:
- Rinse the herbs briefly.
- Add them to a pot with 500ml of water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm.
Benefits: Helps burn fat, reduce bloating, and improve digestion.
Cassia Seed & Chinese Yam Detox Tea (决明子山药清肠茶)
Ingredients:
- 10g Cassia Seeds
- 5g Chinese Yam
- 5g Coix Seeds
- 5g Goji Berries
Instructions:
- Rinse the herbs and soak Cassia Seeds for 10 minutes.
- Add all ingredients to a pot with 500ml of water.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, then strain and drink.
Benefits: Aids digestion, clears toxins, and improves metabolism.
Lifestyle Tips from TCM
- Eat Warm Foods: TCM recommends eating warm, cooked foods to support digestion. Cold foods can weaken the digestive system.
- Mindful Eating: Take your time to eat and chew your food thoroughly. This helps with digestion and prevents overeating.
- Exercise: Gentle exercises like Tai Chi or Qi Gong can help improve circulation and balance your Qi.
Book Recommendation: “Why Are There No Fat People in Colorado” by Jeff T. Bowles
If you’re looking for an interesting read on weight loss, I highly recommend “Why Are There No Fat People in Colorado” by Jeff T. Bowles. This book explores the science behind weight loss and offers unique insights into why some people struggle with weight while others don’t. It’s a fascinating read that challenges conventional wisdom and provides practical advice.
Exciting News!
I’m thrilled to share that this book will soon be available for purchase on my website. Stay tuned for updates, and make sure to grab your copy when it’s live!
Conclusion
Weight loss is a journey, and TCM offers a holistic approach that goes beyond just counting calories. By addressing the root causes of weight gain and restoring balance in the body, TCM can be a powerful tool in your weight loss arsenal. Whether you’re sipping on lotus leaf tea or practicing Tai Chi, these ancient remedies can help you achieve your goals in a natural and sustainable way.
Remember, it’s always best to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before starting any new herbal regimen. Here’s to a healthier, happier you!
What are your thoughts on using TCM for weight loss? Have you tried any of these herbs? Let me know in the comments below!
Author: nadi
Helping others look and feel their best as a cosmetic acupuncturist, naturopath, and writer with a love for holistic wellness—flowing with ancient wisdom to inspire natural beauty and well-being.
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