Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views diabetes as a result of an imbalance in the body’s internal environment. According to TCM theory, diabetes is caused by a deficiency or imbalance in the body’s vital energy, or Qi, which affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
From a TCM perspective, there are two types of diabetes: Yin Deficiency and Phlegm-Heat.
- Yin Deficiency: Yin deficiency is a common TCM pattern associated with diabetes. Yin is the cooling, nourishing, and moistening aspect of the body, and when it is deficient, the body can become overheated and dry. This can lead to symptoms such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, and dry skin. TCM practitioners may use acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary changes to help restore balance to the body’s Yin.
- Phlegm-Heat: Another common TCM pattern associated with diabetes is Phlegm-Heat. This pattern is characterized by a buildup of phlegm in the body, which can lead to symptoms such as obesity, lethargy, and a feeling of heaviness. TCM practitioners may use acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary changes to help clear the phlegm and reduce the body’s heat.
TCM treatments for diabetes may include a combination of acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. Acupuncture can help regulate the body’s Qi, which can help improve blood sugar control. Herbal remedies may be used to help nourish the body’s Yin and clear phlegm. Dietary changes may include eating a diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates, and high in whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein. Lifestyle modifications may include exercise, stress reduction techniques such as meditation or tai chi, and getting enough sleep.
It is important to note that TCM treatments for diabetes should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. People with diabetes should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their individual needs.
20 Acupuncture points for diabetes with details
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy to conventional medical treatments for diabetes. Here are 20 acupuncture points that may be helpful for people with diabetes:
BL23 (Shenshu) – located on the lower back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the waist. This point can tonify the Kidney Qi and strengthen the lower back.
BL20 (Pishu) – located on the lower back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the second lumbar vertebra. This point can tonify the Spleen Qi and regulate digestion.
ST36 (Zusanli) – located four finger widths below the kneecap, on the outer side of the leg. This point can tonify the Spleen and Stomach Qi, regulate digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
PC6 (Neiguan) – located on the inner forearm, two finger widths above the wrist crease. This point can regulate the Heart Qi and calm the mind.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – located three finger widths above the inner ankle bone, on the back of the tibia. This point can tonify the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney Qi, and regulate blood sugar.
BL13 (Feishu) – located on the back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the third thoracic vertebra. This point can tonify the Lung Qi and improve respiratory function.
BL18 (Ganshu) – located on the back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the ninth thoracic vertebra. This point can tonify the Liver Qi and regulate blood sugar.
BL20 (Pishu) – located on the back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the second lumbar vertebra. This point can tonify the Spleen Qi and regulate digestion.
BL22 (Sanjiaoshu) – located on the back, bilateral to the spine, at the level of the lower thoracic vertebrae. This point can tonify the Kidney Qi and strengthen the lower back.
ST25 (Tianshu) – located four finger widths from the belly button, on the outer side of the abdominal muscles. This point can regulate digestion and relieve constipation.
GV4 (Mingmen) – located on the lower back, below the second lumbar vertebra. This point can tonify the Kidney Qi and strengthen the lower back.
GV20 (Baihui) – located on the top of the head, at the midpoint between the ears. This point can tonify the Qi and calm the mind.
LI11 (Quchi) – located at the outer end of the elbow crease. This point can regulate the Qi and strengthen the immune system.
LR3 (Taichong) – located on the top of the foot, between the big toe and the second toe. This point can tonify the Liver Qi and regulate blood sugar.
CV4 (Guanyuan) – located on the lower abdomen, three finger widths below the belly button. This point can tonify the Qi and regulate digestion.
GV26 (Shuigou) – located in the middle of the upper lip. This point can tonify the Qi and calm the mind.
GB34 (Yanglingquan) – located below the knee, in the depression on the outer side of the tibia. This point can tonify the Liver and Gallbladder Qi and regulate blood sugar.
LR13