TCM theory places high importance on the balance between the inner body and its connection with the outside world. In the inner body, Yin and Yang, Qi and blood must be balanced. There should also be balance between all inner organs. Each part of the body ideally operates within a set functional range or state. Body parts which operate above the ideal range are referred to as "excessive"; those that operate below the normal range are referred to as "deficient". Body parts should adhere to their respective roles and coordinate with one another in a stable way. In addition, the body must adjust to changes in the outside world or environment. Environmental changes such as cool, warm or damp weather add stress to the body and may push it out of balance. In essence, keeping a good balance is key to maintaining optimal health and remaining fertile.
We often see patients who have been unable to conceive for many years. We frequently discover that the patient is anxious, irritable, sleeps poorly, and experiences heavy periods that are dark red in color. The TCM diagnosis in these cases is often excess pathological "heat" in the body. TCM doctors will insert acupuncture needles into a group of acupuncture points whose combined function is to remove "heat". They may also choose certain kinds of foods or herbs with a cooling effect in order to reduce the flow of heavy periods accompanied by anxiety and irritation. Once the body is balanced, the patient’s general health will improve and the reproductive system will work better.
TCM provides people with the perfect way to achieve balance: Chinese herbs. Most Chinese herbs originate from the foods we eat – berries, plant leaves, seeds, roots, and so on. Herbs are a little stronger than ordinary food in both taste and smell. Each herb has its own therapeutic properties. Some can warm the body, whereas cold herbs can cool the body. Others can moisten, while still others can dry the body. This is how Chinese herbs and proper diet can help restore and balance our health.