Stress: “a state of mental or emotional tension or strain resulting from demanding or adverse circumstances”. Sound familiar? Well, over 77% of Americans repot regularly feeling stress leading to different physical and mental health problems. After injury, pain and sports medicine acupuncture stress is the number one reason people see me for acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in my San Diego acupuncture clinic.
With such busy lives and information overload it seems like little can be done to reduce stress. Well, this is simply not true. Its common knowledge that exercise, sleep and eating healthy play important roles in reducing stress. But, guess what else? Yes, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.
Scholars believe that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) began with herbal medicine over 3000 years ago! Its truly a sacred honor that I am able to counties to pass on this diverse, safe and incredibly complex medicine. Herbs are used on their own or in unique formulas tailored to the individual. On my site I talk more about how I prescribe herbs and you can even book exclusive herbal consultations with me. I order my herbs from a California based FDA approved and inspected manufacturer and the herbs are shipped in pill or capsule form directly to my patients’ homes. It couldn’t be easier!
Below are some of the top herbs and formulas that I prescribe to treat stress:
1. Eleuthro or Ci Wu Jia: “Adaptogen” seems to be a buzz word lately. All this means is that it has restorative properties. Ci Wu Jia is ideal for people that work long hours, night shifts or high stress jobs. It is an excellent formula for supporting the immune system and for improving sleep.
2. Aswhagandha: Its not a typical herb used in TCM but its an important one for addressing stress. Ashwaganda treats fatigue, anxiety and insomnia. Like Ci Wu Jia its great for the immune system and helps to stimulate the thyroid gland for patients with hypothyroidism.
3. Xiao Yao San: This is a personal favorite of mine. This is a simple yet powerful formula that helps to soothe the liver- the organ associated with stress and emotion in TCM.
4. Cordyceps/Dong Chong Xia Cao: Cordyceps: Believe it or not but- as gross as this sounds- its actually a type of fungus that can be found on caterpillars! Its very difficult to harvest and is therefore rather expensive but its been used for eons in Chinese medicine to fight fatigue, support the immune system as well as protect the liver and kidneys.
5. Suan Zao Ren Tang: An absolute go-to herbal formula. Its extremely helpful in treating insomnia, anxiety, scattered thoughts and irritability. Common symptoms for people under heavy stressed or emotional strain.
Not only can these herbs and formulas be used for symptoms but they can also be used as preventative measures. Stress and San Diego don’t seem to go hand in hand but for those of us that live here not only has it become a big city but its just like anywhere else when it comes to life’s to-do lists and daily activities. Treating stress via acupuncture, herbs and CBD massage in San Diego is very common and I love being one of the leading acupuncture providers here in North Park, Mission Hills, Banker’s Hill, Hillcrest, University Heights and South Park.