Understanding Endometriosis Through a TCM Lens

Endometriosis is a medical condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Most commonly, it affects the ovaries as they are closest. However, this tissue can grow anywhere within the abdomen.

Like the uterus lining, it responds to the monthly cycle of hormones, swelling in size before breaking down and bleeding. Obviously, this causes immense discomfort for the women affected.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine for endometriosis see the condition as part of broad imbalances in the body. In TCM, endometriosis involves Qi stagnation, which blocks energy flow and causes pain; blood stasis, which disrupts blood circulation and aggravates lesions; and cold and damp accumulation, which worsens symptoms like pain and heavy bleeding. By tackling these imbalances, TCM seeks to relieve the discomfort and restore overall well-being.

How Acupuncture Supports Endometriosis Management

Acupuncture isn’t just a traditional practice that dates back centuries and beyond. It’s a highly researched, evidence-based technique with a proven track record of efficacy. In short, acupuncture works.

There are numerous benefits for endometriosis suffers:

• Boosting circulation: It’s all about easing pain by getting your Qi and blood flow back on track.

• Hormone harmony: Supports your endocrine system to keep your menstrual cycles in check.

• Toning down inflammation: Acupuncture is great for soothing inflammation that often comes with endometriosis.

• Stress relief: Since stress can make symptoms worse, acupuncture offers a relieving treatment to help you relax and cut down on stress.

In one meta-analysis of RCTs (randomised control trials), a group of researchers found acupuncture a viable treatment for endometriosis. It was a landmark finding. Published in 2024, the paper detailed the extremely low rate of complications, with acupoint catgut embedding, auricular therapy, acupoint application and combination therapy offering some of the best chances for success.

Other papers have found benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine for endometriosis symptoms like dysmenorrhea and pelvic pain.

Chinese Herbal Medicine for Endometriosis

It’s not just acupuncture. Chinese herbal medicine can also relieve symptoms in a safe and natural manner. TCM practitioners may prescribe personalised herbal formulas to address different issues, such as:

• Pain relief: Herbs to move blood, alleviate stagnation, and reduce discomfort.

• Hormonal regulation: Ingredients that nourish the liver, kidney, and spleen to promote hormonal balance.

• Strengthening immunity: Helping the body address the inflammation and fatigue often associated with endometriosis.

Why TCM Sees Endometriosis as a Whole-Body Disease

Okay, so the treatments prescribed by TCM have tangible, measured effects. But why is it so important to see endometriosis as a “whole-body disease”? Well, that’s because the causes and effects extend beyond just the patches of endometrial tissue. It involves the reproductive organs, general physical fatigue, potential digestive issues (especially if the endometrial tissue is near the colon), and, of course, emotional stress.

Dealing with all these issues isn’t as simple as just targeting the lesions themselves. The body needs to work towards a more holistic harmony for lasting success. Otherwise, it’s a merry-go-round of endless treatments.

TCM works on the principle of treating the entire body and addressing the root causes of imbalances. Acupuncture and herbal medicine ensure that vital substances like blood and qi (energy) flow freely throughout the body and its organs. Qi, in particular, moves via meridian systems, energetic pathways that flow along the external-internal surface of the body.

The Role of Lifestyle and Diet for TCM Treatment

Of course, just like Western medicine, TCM can only do so much. Part of any treatment is receiving advice on lifestyle and diet. You’ll want to focus on a diet rich in whole foods like lean meats, fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains. Because of the cold accumulation, it’s important to eat warm, nourishing foods that sustain you.

You’ll want to avoid any foods that are sensitive or allergic to you. This can exacerbate your endometriosis by creating a state of chronic inflammation. This goes for habits like alcohol or smoking, which degrade the immune system and ability to deal with chronic conditions.

Exercise is crucial to building up your energy levels and strength. The fitter you are, the quicker you’ll bounce back from any setbacks.

Why Choose GinSen London for Endometriosis Care

GinSen London is a centre for traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on carefully formulated herbal remedies and in-person acupuncture treatments. We’re experts in understanding your condition and developing personalised treatments designed to target not just your symptoms but your underlying issues.

Our success comes down to how we see your conditions. It’s about how it affects the whole body that matters. With a holistic approach to treatment, we guide our patients on the path to recovery and remission. We’ve seen it so many times before.

If you’re interested in our services, we encourage you to get in touch. Book a consultation with GinSen London to learn more about our treatments. We’d love to find out how our TCM practitioners can support your endometriosis journey.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.