Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Treat Depression

Traditional Chinese medicine can serve as an auxiliary treatment for depression, but it cannot completely replace the comprehensive treatment plan of modern medicine. The treatment of depression needs to be combined with psychological intervention, drug regulation and lifestyle adjustment. TCM treatment based on syndrome differentiation mainly relieves symptoms by soothing the liver and relieving depression, regulating qi and blood, and common methods include herbal decoction, acupuncture and moxibustion, massage, etc.

Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that depression is related to syndrome types such as liver qi stagnation and heart spleen deficiency. For different syndrome types, formulas such as Chaihu Shugan San and Ganmai Dazao Tang will be used. Acupuncture and moxibustion often selects Baihui, Yintang, Taichong and other acupoints to regulate emotion. Some patients can improve accompanying symptoms such as sleep disorders and somatic symptoms through traditional Chinese medicine treatment, but those with severe depression or suicidal tendencies still need to prioritize the use of antidepressant drugs and psychological therapy. Modern medicine clearly states that depression is related to an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, and relying solely on traditional Chinese medicine is difficult to quickly correct biological abnormalities. Clinical data shows that traditional Chinese medicine usually takes 4-8 weeks to take effect, while SSRI antidepressants can show significant efficacy in 2-4 weeks. For patients with severe social dysfunction, traditional Chinese medicine is more suitable as a rehabilitation aid during the stable period. Patients with depression should develop individualized plans under the guidance of a psychiatrist, and may combine traditional Chinese medicine treatment as appropriate. Maintain a regular daily routine, engage in soothing exercises such as Eight Section Brocade and Tai Chi, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and consume more calming and calming ingredients such as lilies and lotus seeds. If the mood remains low for more than two weeks, it is necessary to seek professional psychological assistance in a timely manner.