The Role of Gut Health in Reducing Anxiety and Depression: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

BY Dr Luke McPherson (TCM)

TCM, Acupuncture, Crows Nest

GUT HEALTH

The Role of Gut Health in Reducing Anxiety and Depression: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

As an experienced Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, I’ve often focused on improving gut health to impact mental well-being. In both modern science and TCM, the connection between the gut and emotions is undeniable. However, in TCM, this relationship is understood through a unique lens that weaves together the physical and energetic aspects of the body.

The Spleen and Stomach: The Core of Digestion and Emotions

In TCM, the gut is primarily governed by the Spleen (Pi) and Stomach (Wei), which are responsible not only for digestion but also for the transformation and transportation of nutrients and energy (Qi) throughout the body. A weakened Spleen and Stomach system, often due to poor diet, stress, or overthinking, can lead to a deficiency in Qi and dampness accumulation. This dampness stagnates and blocks the flow of Qi and blood, contributing to feelings of heaviness, both physically and mentally.

The Spleen is closely tied to the Earth element, which grounds you and provides you with stability. When this system is out of balance, we may experience excessive worry, rumination, or anxiety. By nurturing the Spleen and Stomach, we can support the body's ability to process not just food, but also emotions.

The Gut-Brain Axis in TCM

In Western medicine, the "gut-brain axis" describes the bidirectional communication between the digestive system and the brain, influenced by the gut microbiota. TCM has long understood this connection through the relationship between the Heart (which governs the Shen or mind) and the Spleen. When the Spleen is weakened, it can disturb the Heart, leading to emotional imbalances such as anxiety and depression. Conversely, when emotional stress affects the Heart, it disrupts the digestive system, creating a vicious cycle.

Supporting gut health in TCM is not just about physical nourishment but also about regulating emotions and calming the mind. By strengthening the digestive system, we can help the Heart and Shen function more harmoniously, reducing anxiety and depression.

How Acupuncture and Herbs Support Gut Health and Mental Wellness

One of the most effective ways to support gut health and mental well-being in TCM is through acupuncture and herbal medicine. Acupuncture points such as Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6), Neiguan (P6); Touwei (ST 8), Gongsan (SP4) are commonly used to tonify the Spleen, harmonise digestion, and calm the mind. These points help regulate the flow of Qi, improve digestion, and relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression by restoring balance to the body’s systems.

Herbal formulas like Xiao Yao San, Guipi Tang, Suanzaoren Tang, Wen Gang Tang traditionally used to relieve stress and improve digestion, work by soothing the Liver, strengthening the Spleen, calming the shen; and alleviating emotional tension. By addressing the root cause of digestive imbalance, we can help patients experience not only better gut health but also a clearer, more stable mind.

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

From a TCM perspective, supporting gut health involves mindful eating, reducing stress, and avoiding foods that are difficult to digest or create dampness, such as greasy, sugary, or processed foods. Instead, I recommend incorporating warm, nourishing foods like congee, soups, stews, and lightly cooked vegetables; ingredients such as garlic, ginger, cinnamon, are all nourishing. Additionally, it's essential to eat at regular intervals and avoid overeating, as irregular eating habits can disrupt the Spleen and Stomach.

Emotional health is also deeply connected to the gut, and simple practices like Qigong, Tai Chi, and meditation can help calm the mind and regulate the flow of Qi, reducing stress on the digestive system.

To sum things up…

In TCM, we understand that the gut and mind are intricately connected. By nurturing gut health, we not only improve digestion but also create the foundation for emotional balance. Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments, plays a crucial role in reducing anxiety and depression. The beauty of TCM lies in its holistic approach, reminding us that healing the mind begins with caring for the body, starting with the gut.

By harmonising our digestion, we can cultivate a clearer, calmer state of mind, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with greater ease.

Call Dr Luke McPherson (TCM) for a Consultation today!

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