Diabetes from the traditional Chinese medicine perspective
A good article about how Chinese medicine looks at diabetes–as a deficiency of yin:
” In Chinese, diabetes may be referred to as Xiao ke or Wasting Thirst syndrome. The cause of Wasting Thirst syndrome is understood to be a deficiency of Yin in the body, along with a heat pathogen affecting the lungs, stomach and kidneys. When yin is deficient, heat is produced; in the same way, when heat is present it “burns up” yin.
Thus, the most common symptoms of diabetes are excessive thirst, hunger and urination, associated respectively with the upper, middle and lower burners. Diabetes is often referred to as Upper Burner, Middle Burner and Lower Burner Wasting-Thirst Patterns of Disharmony. They are all associated with yin deficiency.
In Chinese medicine, it is understood that people who partake in alcohol, sweet or fatty foods and lead an irregular, unhealthy or sedentary lifestyle have a tendency to develop Xiao ke syndrome. Emotional disturbances can also contribute to Xiao ke. A yin deficiency may be characterised by lethargy, weakness and a pale complexion. Energy channels are blocked and a stagnation or thickening of the blood results. Eventually, toxic heat is generated. This consumes the vital organs’ fluid, causing organ malfunction and disharmony between the lung, stomach and kidney.
How does Chinese medicine treat diabetes?
Chinese medicine does not measure food glucose levels like Western medicine. Rather, Chinese medicine seeks an individualised treatment in order to address and treat the symptoms of individual patients, their patterns of disharmony and points of deficiency.
When looking at diabetes, Chinese medicine takes a holistic approach and making detailed observations about their current state. This includes a four-part examination—looking, listening or smelling, touching and asking. It includes examining the shape, colour and coating of the tongue, the colour and expression of the face, the odour of the breath and body, and the strength, rhythm and quality of the pulse.
Chinese herbs can help to replenish yin deficiencies that contribute to diabetes. Depending on the specific case, herbs that will stimulate yin in the lungs, stomach, spleen or kidneys may be prescribed. Acupuncture therapy may also be employed in treating diabetes. “
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