The Lunar New Year is coming up with the new moon February 9th, ushering in a year of the (male) Fire Monkey.[1] According to Tibetan Astrology a Monkey year is “extremely rich and holds many surprises—anything can happen. This is a year in which one must be cunning and seize new initiatives. All opportunities are open and one should be flexible enough to take advantage of them. This is a year of daring progress, not for the slow or timid.”[2] The fire element adds to that rather exciting stew: “Fire transmits a vital, brilliant, and transforming energy and enhances expression, extroversion, and the ability to make decisions.”
According to Chinese Five Elements Horoscopes, Monkey contains Metal and Water. Metal is connected to gold and discernment. Water is connected to wisdom and danger. Outwardly we will deal with more financial events in the year of the Monkey. Monkey is a smart, naughty, wily and vigilant animal. If you want to have good return for your money investment, then you need to outsmart the Monkey. Metal is also connected to the Wind. That implies the status of events will be changing very quickly. Think twice before you leap into making changes be it in finance, career, business, or relationships. The key word for the coming year is volatile. If you are able to meet volatile movement with flexibility and resourcefulness you will be able to take advantage of what could otherwise seem a chaotic wave of events.
Generally, if you are born in a monkey year ( 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004) be careful. To a lesser degree this is true for those born in the year of the tiger (1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010) which is opposite the monkey. Every 12 years you return to the sign of your birth which is considered unfavorable and therefore a time to keep a low profile. Good advice for health professionals: check a patients lunar year of birth. Knowing that they have a strong or weak year can help with treatment prognosis and protocol. Of course, applying stems and branches by far the best if you had the luxury to learn it…
However, if the element of your birth year is earth it is more favorable as the annual fire element supports earth.
Bottom line, it will will be a very volatile year! There will be endless opportunities as long as you know how to go with the flow but anyone looking for something to hold on to might find the time ahead challenging.
For personalized charts, please contact Suzanne Greeven directly at Channa Astrology
[1] Strictly speaking, the new moon takes place at 1 am on the 9. February (AEST) so the Chinese celebrations are before the actual new moon.
The analysis of disease in oriental medicine is based on a concept called ‘zangfu’. The zang are solid and the fu are hollow organs. The focus of Chinese medicine on the different organs reflects the increased reliance on concepts therein. Ideally, every organ has a specific meaning, and this has a direct impact on how certain diseases are analyzed and treated. Other major concepts are ‘yin yang’ and the ‘5 elements’.
All organs are paired with another one in a yin-yang relationship. Yin organs store essence (lungs, spleen, heart, kidney liver and pericardium). Yang organs receive and transport (large intestine, stomach, small Intestine, urinary bladder, gallbladder and triple burner).
The Lungs
In the context of Chinese medicine, the lungs create a border between the inner and outer worlds. Owing to the sensitivity of the inner environment, there is a definite need for a boundary that defines and defends a person. The role of the lungs goes beyond the respiratory system, despite the fact that the main material that is taken in is oxygen.
Boundary, renewal, and breadth are the main elements associated with the lungs. This organ is considered to be the master of qi; this is mainly because the physical vitality is one of its main responsibilities.
The lung is paired with the large intestine. These 2 organs are responsible for immunity and the strength of the body’s defensive energy.
The Large intestine
The large intestine is the yang organ that pairs with the lungs. The lung connects with the large intestine via the meridian (internal pathway) and this is how the organs communicate. The pair is associated with the emotion of grief. The major function of the large intestine is to receive the waste that is released through the small intestines. The fluid content of the waste is absorbed by the large intestines, and the rest of the content is formed into faces, which is later excreted.
The large intestine and the lungs also govern the skin, the physical boundary of our body and our personality.
For a personal consultation with our registered Chinese medicine practitioner, please call 03 5956 7011 or book an appointment online
Unfortunately, Chinese herbal medicine has enticed negative attention when an article revealed that a multidisciplinary approach to assess the molecular content of 26 patents described found that 92% of their samples have some form of contamination and/or substitution.
The research was funded through an Australian Research Council Future Fellowship awarded to MB and a National Health and Medical Research Council grant.
Details about the products that were randomly purchased and tested have not been revealed but it was apparent that at least 50% of these purchased products were not listed on the ARTG (Australian Register Therapeutic Goods) and hence regulated by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration).
What is sure is, that they were so called pre-packaged products (‘patents’). The composition of the products is derived from classical formulas, possibly modified with additional herbs and then sold as Hay fever tablets, Clear Cough, Menopause fix or something along those lines. These products are widely available through many channels, over the counter (OTC).
If these products are pre-packaged and sold over the counter, they have to be listed with the ARTG (the TGA register). If they don’t have an AUSTL or an AUSTR reference, they are sold illegally.
As registered Acupuncturists in Australia, the law permits us to recommend or sell those patent products. As registered Chinese herbalists, we also dispense customized herbal formulas to our patients. These formulas are made up from single herbs, such as raw herbs (unprepared, twigs, leaves, roots, flowers, barks, etc.) or from prepared single extracts such as granules or liquids. This means those products result from single raw herbs but have undergone testing with the relevant manufacturers before being extracted.
The tests in an accredited laboratory are:
Botanical identification (the testing method most appropriate for the product is chosen, but often HPTLC = High performance thin layer chromatography)
Aflatoxins
Pesticides: Total BHC’s, Total DDT’s, Quintozene (PCNB)
Heavy metals: Lead, Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium
Microbiology: aerobic count, yeast and mold count E. coli, Salmonella, Bile-tolerant gram-negative, Staphylococcus Aureus
The contamination thresholds for herbs are much lower than the ones used in Food Standards. Safflower has always advocated that raw materials (Herbs, animal products and minerals) need to undergo testing to make the end product a safe and stable product for human consumption. This is the reason, why we dispense formulas (for patients of our clinic and for other practitioners) compounded from single substances that have been certified.
It is needless to say that customized herbal formulas cost more due to the fact that the raw materials have received much attention. Thankfully both of our manufacturer KPC and Conforma are serious about the production of their extracts and hence meet the pharmaceutical standard called GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice). Each single substances is received with a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) that outlines each test and that has been conducted and the results achieved, before the product is released for compounding and consumption by adults and children.
We also receive our paraffin-free cream base from a local GMP manufacturer.
It is unfortunate that the contaminated products were available in Australia and have left the Australian public in mistrust towards Chinese herbal medicine. Without a doubt, the article has sent a powerful message.
In essence:
At this stage, the branding of the products analyzed have been kept anonymous which means that the Australian public can’t be warned of the products in question.
The results of the listed products have been forwarded to the TGA and will most likely be investigated, it could also mean that complementary medicine products won’t be able to list on the ARTG but could require analysis and extensive testing in the future.
Each and every formula dispensed by Safflower contain single substances in liquid or granulated extracts that have undergone extensive testing and are received with a Certificate of Analysis which means that they are safe for consumption for both adults and children.
If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or telephone 03 5956 7011.
Ever noticed considerable fluctuations in your energy levels? Experiencing frequent mood swings? The explanation for these behaviors is tied to what one eat, as well as chemical hormonal chemical fluctuations. The body energy clock has been discovered by early scholars of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It illustrates the energy flow and the cyclical ebb across the body. During a 24-hour period, qi (energy) is moving at at two-hour intervals throughout the body and takes on various qualities.
1 to 3am – The liver
When one is sleeping, During 1am and 3am, the liver is considerably active, and it cleanses the blood. The numerous functions performed by the liver during this period also allow for energy to be exuded outwards. Frustration and anger are some of the emotions that are associated with the liver. As a result, it may be worthwhile to vent them out should you frequently wake during the said period. The liver also performs at its peak where the period between the last meal intake is relatively longer which essentially explains why most people prefer having their last meal way before they go to bed.
3 to 5am – The lung
The period between 3am and 5am is considered to be the lung time. The main emotions associated with the lung are sadness and grief. According to TCM, regular deep breaths are certain to release grief; the same effect is obtained through breath meditations. Damaged lung energy may result in lung yin deficiency (too dry, not enough moisture), lung qi deficiency (not enough energy), and a contraction of a cold (affecting the respiratory tract) may reduce the functionality of the lungs considerably.
5 to 7am – the large intestine
TCM associates defensiveness and guilt to the phase between 5am-7am. The organ that is at its peak is the large intestine. You may have heard that it is important to drink lemon water first thing in the morning. Ideally, this aids in the elimination of toxins and aids is the elimination of sluggishness and fatigue (it also alkalizes the body). A properly formed bowel movement is one of the signs that one’s large intestines are working accordingly. Proper functionality may also be aided by relaxation of both body and mind.
7 to 9am – the stomach
Stomach qi disharmony is mainly characterized by mental anxiety. The stomach’s performance is greatly heightened between 7am-9am. Empathy and hypersensitivity are some of the emotions associated with the stomach. In a bid to prevent yourself from negative energy, TCM recommends one to have reserves of positivity that are enough to send outwards.
9 to 11am – the spleen
Between 9 – 11am, the spleen’s performance is at its optimum. The body’s intentions and thoughts are all housed by the spleen. Trust and honesty are some of the main virtues associated with a proper functioning spleen. Soft bowel movements indicate a weakness of the spleen qi. Taking a bath, reading poetry, and listening to music are some of the activities that are recommended during this period in a bid to reduce activity in the mind. The spleen is responsible for nutrient absorption food digestion; it also aids in energy and blood formation. These are vital body processes; hence TCM recommends that one takes all the necessary steps towards ensuring spleen balance.
11am to 1pm – the heart
Since the heart houses one’s spirit, insight, joy, love, and peace are some of the emotions that are connected with the heart. Between 11am and 1pm, the heart’s performance is at its peak. Some of the major signs of an imbalanced heart qi include paleness, unusual beads of sweat, and talking too much. Soaking in the sun also helps in warming the heart, as one shares in the sun’s energy. Heart fire and heart yin deficiency are some of the most common heart conditions.
1 – 3pm – the small intestine
The small intestine is the yang (active) component to the yin heart and facilitates good judgment and discernment. The small intestine performs more between 1pm-3pm. As appealing as cold and carbonated drinks may appear, it is important to avoid them since they only work to inhibit the digestive system’s performance. During this period, TCM recommends the intake of a nutritious snack.
3 – 5pm – the urinary bladder
If the period between 3pm-5pm is one of the most depressing periods of the day, you might need to review the functionality of your bladder. The bladder is at its peak during this time and it’s the optimal time to drink water. A compromised bladder qi is mainly characterized by bladder infections and infrequent urination. To further cleanse the bladder, TCM recommends the intake of lemon water (as seen before, it alkalizes). Should you note that you are having a difficult time dealing with your emotions, it might be timely to have a conversation with your trusted health professional.
5 – 7pm – the kidney
According to the 24-hour organ clock, the phase between 5pm-7pm represents the period when the kidney’s performance is at its peak. The kidney is one of the most important organs in the body and is associated with functions like growth and development, maturation, and reproduction. Some of the clearest signs of a proper-functioning kidney include a healthy libido, self-awareness, endurance, and strength. Kidney yang (energy) deficiency and kidney yin (substance) deficiency are the main kidney conditions.
7 – 9pm – the pericardium
The pericardium protects the heart. Its performance is at its optimum between 7pm-9pm. The pericardium may be kept healthy by engaging in meaningful sex. Emotional and physical illnesses may be avoided by having a proper functioning pericardium as it shields the heart from grief from the lungs, fear from the kidneys, and anger from the liver. TCM also recommends that expressing yourself creatively assists in maintaining a proper functionality of the organ.
9 – 11pm – the triple burner (san jiao)
The triple burner, composed of the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis is increasingly active between 9pm-11pm. A feeling of balance, benevolence, and joy are some of the signs that these three components are working properly. The thorax is responsible for controlling intake, the abdomen keeps transformations in check, whereas the pelvis controls the body’s elimination. A functioning triple burner works to transform depression into joy essentially bringing about a sense of wellbeing and peace. The triple burner is not an organ as such but more a pathway for transportation between the different parts of the body.
11 – 1pm – the gallbladder
Resentment and anger are some of the main emotions associated with the gallbladder. High cholesterol and stagnant bile hinder the performance of the gallbladder. Between 11p-1pm, the performance is at its peak. One should avoid hydrogenated oils and focus on oil from fish, hemp oil, and olive oil (unsaturated oils). One of the best ways to confirm whether or not one’s gall bladder is functioning accordingly is by examining the feelings you are dealing with during this time. If they are inclined towards frustration and anger towards yourself and others, it might be a good time to strive to achieve having a gall bladder that functions accordingly. The gallbladder also represents our ability to make decisions, if its hard for you to decide, it might be because your gallbladder needs a (TCM) check up!
References:
Pathways for Health. (n.d.). Retrieved October 29, 2015, from http://pathways4health.org/2010/03/04/the-chinese-body-clock-energy-patterns-through-24-hours/
TCM – 24-hour Organ Qi Cycle. (n.d.). Retrieved October 29, 2015, from http://www.astrodreamadvisor.com/Qi-Cycle.html#
The Link Between Emotions and Physical Health. (n.d.). Retrieved October 29, 2015, from http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/anxietydepression/a/EmotionsTCM.htm
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (or polycystic ovary syndrome – PCOS) is a complex condition in which a woman’s ovaries are generally bigger than average. Polycystic means the ovaries have many cysts or follicles that rarely grow to maturity or produce eggs capable of being fertilised. Despite the fact that these cysts are not harmful, they are responsible for hormonal imbalances in the women. The hormonal imbalance interferes with the menstrual cycle which means that the periods either become highly irregular or are non-existent.
We have noticed that this condition is affecting more women in the last few years, and they often seek assistance when they are unable to conceive. Sadly, failure to treat the problem may lead to serious health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Long-term problems are certain to be avoided through an early diagnosis and treatment.
The body talks through sending messages in the shape of hormones
Hormones act as messengers meant to trigger different processes in the body; these include energy production and growth. Every so often, one hormone works to trigger the release of another hormone. As with all conditions (diagnosed or not) in Chinese medicine, we establish the disruptive pattern causing the illness. In PCOS, we often see a lack of kidney energy together with ineffective transformation of fluids in the body, which results in phlegm. This phlegm then blocks the natural physiology and hence the chances of falling pregnant.
According to the traditional view, the accumulation of phlegm in the ovaries which is either due to a inadequate diet or the inability of the kidney to steam the fluid to the upper parts of the body. The kidney yang (the active, energetic part of the kidney) acts as a heater that is meant to steam body fluids and ensure they are properly distributed throughout the whole body.
Some of the major symptoms of PCOS are:
Irregular menstrual cycles; absent or irregular menses
Mid-cycle bleeding, painful ovulation, or agonizing menstruation
A stabbing pain, heaviness, or distention in the pelvic region
Heavy menstruation, more so if the periods are late
As it is, PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility. The analogy behind this is the fact that ovulation is affected by the disorder.
With customised Chinese herbal medicine formulations as well as acupuncture, we will target the disruption of the reproductive system by balancing the hormones and assist the body in gaining a natural cycle including ovulation as well as regular periods. Different herbal combinations are created so as to offer the much needed therapeutic effect. The incorporation of cinnamon, more specifically (Rou Gui) cinnamon bark, works to support the water-steaming characteristic of the kidney. Fu Ling (Hoelen) is a moisture-controlling herb that, when used in combination with cinnamon and other herbs, may treat the disorder. Ba Wei Di Huang Wan (Rehmannia Eight Formula) or Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan are widely used in the Chinese medicine treatment of PCOS. The formula is administered either using pills, as a decoction or as liquid or granulated extracts.
Damp stagnation, qi and blood stagnation, and heart qi stagnation are the three major forms of PCOS. Owing to the obvious distinction in symptoms and aftermaths, it is advised that you seek personalized medical care.
Deficiency of Kidney Yang and Spleen Qi
Women ailing from this pattern of PCOS exhibit long menstrual cycles, watery blood, and scanty bleeding that may have mucus or stringy tissue. Some of them also do not menstruate at all which is principally why they seek fertility treatment. Women in this category feel bloated, add weight easily, tire easily, and do not like cold weather. Chronic vaginal discharge and chronic yeast infections are also possible symptoms.
Treatment here is aimed at dissolving the phlegm, removing dampness, and boosting the digestive system. Specific herbs, administered in formulas such as Tu Si Zi (Cuscutae Semen), Gui Zhi (Cinnamomi Ramulus), Cang Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizoma), and Du Zhong (Eucommiae Cortex), etc. may also be used. The composition of the herbal formulation will entirely depend on the pattern and your constitution.
Blood Stasis and Liver Qi Stagnation
Enduring depression, stress, or anxiety are the main causes of this pattern. These, in turn, affects blood circulation; qi is necessary for blood circulation in the liver as well as the chong (Conception) and ren (Governing) channels that connect and traverse with the uterus. Some of the most common symptoms in this pattern include headaches, irritability and restlessness, a general feeling of heat, distended abdomen or breast and predominantly clotty and heavy periods.
Herbs meant to promote blood circulation in the uterus and qi, reduce distention and pain, remove heat, and calm emotions are used. In such cases, formulas such as Dan Zhi Xiao Yao Yao San, Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang or Xiao Chai Hu Tang are used with modifications based on the diagnosis.
Acupuncture for PCOS
Acupuncture has been used extensively to offer relief from myriads of problems; PCOS is not an exemption. Through acupuncture, blood flow to the uterus is increased essentially increasing the wall’s thickness; this is an important dynamic in fertility. The stress hormones associated with infertility may also be reduced by the treatment.
Acupuncture treatment may be given once a week, or more frequently depending on the severity. Patients with pain in the mid-cycle or before menstruation are subscribed to relatively frequent acupuncture sessions. Normally, continuous treatment is recommended for about three months. However, the duration varies considerably based on factors such as the intensity of the symptoms and the Chinese medicine diagnosis offered among other factors such as dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
We found that if women affected by PCOS need to consider the following, basic dietary changes:
Reduce the intake of dairy (as milk and cheese products will encourage the formation of phlegm)
Don’t eat anything raw (uncooked) or cold (out of the fridge or frozen)
Drastically reduce the intake of refined sugars, carbohydrates and starchy vegetables
Eat healthy fats and oils (the best sources of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and fish)
Use lots of pungent and warming herbs out of the garden to encourage the flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.
Parting Shot
It is easy to ignore one’s menstrual cycle in your earlier years. Despite the urge, it is important to take note of unusual signs that may be present.
A certified Chinese Medicine herbalist and practitioner can correctly assess and diagnose the symptoms that should be addressed first, and the underlying cause.
We strongly recommend that instead of blindly taking herbal formulas without professional diagnosis and proper dosage, you should seek the services of a certified therapist.
References:
BACKGROUND. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2015, from http://www.itmonline.org/arts/ovcyst.htm
“Role of acupuncture in the treatment of female infertility.” By Dr. Raymond Chang, Dr. Pak Chung, and Dr. Zev Rosenwaks. Fertility and Sterility. 2002;78(6):1149-53. – See more at: http://www.pcosnutrition.com/links/blogs/traditional-chinese-medicine–acupuncture-for-women-with-pcos.html#sthash.yh95GMyT.dpuf
