How to treat depression with traditional Chinese medicine

The treatment of depression by traditional Chinese medicine is mainly through comprehensive intervention of syndrome differentiation combined with traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and moxibustion, massage, emotional conditioning and dietotherapy. Depression in traditional Chinese medicine mostly belongs to the category of depression syndrome, which is related to factors such as liver qi stagnation, insufficient qi and blood, and phlegm dampness obstruction.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment

Select formulas such as Chaihu Shugan San, Ganmai Dazao Tang, and Guipi Tang based on the syndrome type. For liver depression and qi stagnation type, Xiaoyao Wan can be used. For heart spleen deficiency type, Renshen Guipi Wan is suitable. For phlegm heat disturbance type, Huanglian Wendan Tang is commonly used. Traditional Chinese medicine should be adjusted by physicians according to tongue and pulse conditions to avoid self medication. Some traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations, such as Shugan Jieyu Capsules and Jieyu Anshen Granules, can also help improve insomnia, depression and other symptoms.

II. acupuncture and moxibustion therapy

Select Baihui, Yintang, Neiguan, Taichong and other acupoints to soothe the liver and relieve depression, and coordinate with electroacupuncture or ear point pressing beans to regulate neurotransmitters. Clinical research shows that acupuncture and moxibustion can promote the secretion of 5-hydroxytryptamine and alleviate anxiety and depression. The treatment is 2-3 times a week, 10 times is a course of treatment, which needs to be operated by a professional acupuncture and moxibustion.

Third, Massage Guidance

By massaging the bladder meridian on the back, pressing acupoints on the head to clear meridians, and using techniques such as Eight Section Brocade and Tai Chi to regulate qi flow. Massaging Taichong acupoint for 3-5 minutes every morning can help relieve liver qi, but patients with severe depression need to combine other treatments.

Fourthly, emotional regulation

uses the method of empathy to guide patients to participate in activities such as gardening and calligraphy, and plays angular music through pentatonic therapy to soothe the liver and relieve depression. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that anger can harm the liver and one should avoid excessive emotions and establish a regular daily routine.

V. Dietetic Therapy

Edible rose substitute tea for liver depression type, yam and red jujube Congee for heart and spleen deficiency type, and dried tangerine peel and barley water for phlegm dampness type. Avoiding spicy and greasy foods, and supplementing with foods rich in tryptophan such as millet and bananas in moderation can help improve mood.

Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes individualized treatment plans. Mild depression can be treated with traditional Chinese medicine alone, while moderate to severe depression requires psychological therapy or Western medicine intervention. During the treatment period, moderate exercise such as Tai Chi should be maintained to avoid overthinking, and family members should provide emotional support. If severe symptoms such as sustained low mood and suicidal tendencies occur, seek professional medical assistance immediately. The traditional Chinese medicine conditioning cycle usually takes 3-6 months, and patients should have regular follow-up visits to adjust their medication.