While aging is inevitable, and the idea of getting older may be daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Today, many seniors experience happier, healthier, and longer lives. We’re living longer, with more of those years being happy, mobile, and active.
Taking care of your health is crucial in order to age gracefully. TCM methods and practices, which have been used for centuries, can help you feel healthier and stronger in your golden years.
Read on to learn how TCM can contribute to a long, healthy, and happy life.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a key component of TCM, has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of health issues. It’s gained such popularity in the west that it is easily accessible in many major cities, making it a valuable option for anyone dipping their toes into the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Acupuncture can help alleviate symptoms and conditions associated with healthy aging. Let’s break down some of the most common reasons aging adults use acupuncture.
Pain relief
Acupuncture can help manage chronic pain, which is common among older adults. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can increase the release of natural pain-relievers like endorphins and reduce inflammation. This can ease the pain and discomfort from conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and even common joint pain.
Mental Health
The CDC reports that 20% of people aged 55 and older experience some form of mental health issue. Acupuncture has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by helping to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is especially important for older adults who may experience social isolation and who don’t have strong support systems.
Sleep Improvement
Many seniors experience disrupted sleep as the result of an aging suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Acupuncture can help regulate sleep patterns. This is essential for the overall health of seniors. Poor sleep has been linked to a range of health issues, including cognitive decline and cardiovascular disease.
Immune System Support
Acupuncture can help boost the immune system, which naturally weakens with age. By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can increase the production of white blood cells and improve the body’s natural defense against disease.
Herbal Medicine
TCM uses herbal medicine to promote balance and harmony in the body, as it can be very powerful in the context of healthy aging. Here are a few ways that TCM herbs and herbal formulas can support an aging mind and body.
Boost the Immune System
Like acupuncture, single herbs and herbal formulas can be used to support the immune system. Herbs like Huang Qi (Astragalus) have been shown to have immune-boosting properties that help protect against infection and disease.
Reduce Inflammation
Herbs like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Formulas can be extremely helpful in reducing inflammation associated with joint problems and chronic pain conditions, reducing overall discomfort. Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Tuhuo & Loranthus Combination), for example, is effective in reducing many types of pain and inflammation.
Support Cognitive Function
Herbs like Yuan Zhi (Polygala) may help improve memory and cognitive function, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Many people believe cognitive decline is an inevitability of aging, but slowing (and perhaps even reversing) this decline is possible.
Diet
In TCM, eating habits play a crucial role in maintaining balance and harmony in the body. For healthy aging, TCM recommends a relatively simple and nourishing diet full of foods that warm and strengthen the body.
Many practitioners recommend a clear and bland diet of foods that are easy to digest. Food should also always be cooked and warm. This can help minimize the risk of digestive issues and promote overall health and vitality. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help reduce the risk of chronic disease. They also contain healthy fiber to promote healthy digestion.
Conversely, practitioners recommend against foods that are too high in sugar and salt. consuming high amounts of sugar and salt can lead to a range of health issues, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Some foods are commonly used in TCM for healthy aging. Sweet potatoes, for example, are a staple in TCM. They’re rich in antioxidants and easy to digest. Mushrooms like shiitake and reishi are believed to have anti-aging properties and promote overall well-being.
Seaweed like kelp and wakame are rich in antioxidants and can help minimize the risk of chronic disease.
Practitioners also recommend eating fermented foods. Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, which can help support gut health and internal balance.
Tai Chi and Exercise
TCM also uses movement modalities like tai chi, among others, to promote healthy aging. TCM experts and practitioners recommend other forms of healthy movement, such as qigong, a modality that combines slow movements with deep breathing and meditation, and daily walks alongside tai chi.
These simple, low-impact exercises can soothe and strengthen an aging body and mind and restore vitality.
Simple exercise can help reduce the risk of falls and improve overall mobility. Exercise has been shown to positively impact mental health, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety due to the release of endorphins. It can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health, as well as improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Age Well With TCM
Aging can be a beautiful part of life. With proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care, it’s possible to enjoy your golden years in excellent health and comfort. TCM practitioners have been helping people improve their vitality and longevity for centuries. Ancient methods still yield great modern results.
At KPC Herbs, we pride ourselves on offering only the finest quality TCM herbs and herbal formulas. With our unmatched attention to detail and quality, our clients are receiving the best possible products. View our catalog for your herbal formula needs today.
*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
