Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dating back to 3000 years, employs a holistic and philosophical approach to address human health issues. It is based on principles such as yin-yang and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water). TCM utilizes various techniques, including massage, acupuncture, clinical diagnosis, and herbology. From a urology perspective, erectile dysfunction (ED) can have various causes, including issues related to the vascular, nervous, endocrine systems, or psychogenic factors. However, the way that TCM looks at this matter is completely different.
Chinese medicine views erectile dysfunction as a result of imbalances within the body's energy systems. It considers the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee") or vital energy and the balance of Yin and Yang as crucial factors in maintaining overall health, including sexual function. According to Chinese medicine, ED is often seen as a manifestation of a broader imbalance in the body rather than a standalone condition.
According to TCM theory, the kidneys and liver are the primary organs associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). The kidneys store the essence (jing), while the liver stores blood (Xue). Additionally, the liver plays a role in modulating blood volume and maintaining blood flow. It also influences sexual and reproductive functions. Hence, the kidneys and liver are essential organs with diverse functions, particularly concerning male sexual dysfunction in TCM.
In TCM, diagnosing diseases involves identifying disharmony patterns, unlike conventional medical diagnosis. Understanding the fundamental concepts of yin and yang theory, as well as the nature of qi (energy), Xue (blood), and jing (fluid essence), is crucial in comprehending TCM's foundational principles.
In TCM, the liver is associated with the root of the penis, and many patterns of male sexual function disorders involve imbalances in the liver and kidneys. When there is an imbalance in the liver concerning male sexual function, it can lead to liver qi stagnation, disrupting the smooth flow of qi and potentially cause erectile dysfunction (ED). Liver qi stagnation is often accompanied by dampness, heat, or cold imbalances. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in contributing to these imbalances. For instance, excessive consumption of greasy and spicy foods, as well as excessive alcohol consumption, is commonly linked to excess heat and dampness, according to TCM. Conversely, prolonged exposure to cold can worsen cold or cold/damp imbalances. The kidney organ and meridian are almost always involved in TCM's understanding of ED patterns.
The kidney is closely connected to jing, and when combined with kidney yin or yang deficiency, it frequently leads to erectile dysfunction. Lifestyle factors that contribute to kidney yang deficiencies include:
Excessive physical and mental exertion.
Excessive consumption of cold and raw foods.
Prolonged exposure to cold.
Excessive indulgence in sexual activity.
Lifestyle factors related to kidney yin deficiency include overwork, night shift work, and insomnia, all of which deplete the jing.
The three most common TCM patterns observed in male sexual dysfunction are as follows:
1. Liver qi stagnation: Common symptoms may include low libido, difficulty maintaining an erection (with or without painful urination), lower abdominal or groin pain, and mental/emotional stress.
2. Damp heat in the lower jiao: Symptoms may include difficulty achieving an erection, premature ejaculation due to blocked qi, low sperm count, and poor lifestyle factors.
3. Kidney yang deficiency: Patients often experience an inability to achieve an erection, low or no libido, fatigue, and poor lifestyle factors.
The next post will discuss how a healthcare provider manages an ED based on traditional Chinese concepts
Reference:
https://drgeo.com/treating-erectile-dysfunction-with-traditional-chinese-medicine-tcm/.
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