PCOS Natural Treatment: The Complete TCM Guide

PCOS in TCM

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome involves insulin resistance, hormone imbalance, and multiple ovarian cysts. In TCM, PCOS primarily manifests as Kidney deficiency (hormone imbalance), Phlegm-Damp accumulation (cysts, weight gain), and Liver Qi stagnation (hormone disruption, emotional stress). The Spleen's failure to transform fluids leads to Damp accumulation in the lower abdomen, forming cysts.

Three TCM Patterns of PCOS

1. Kidney Deficiency: Late or absent periods, infertility, lower back weakness, frequent urination, fatigue. 2. Phlegm-Damp: Overweight, sticky vaginal discharge, cysts on ultrasound, heavy feeling, oily skin, acne. 3. Liver Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis: Painful periods, dark clots, breast tenderness, mood swings, irritability.

Diet for PCOS

Insulin-balancing: Cinnamon (1 tsp daily improves insulin sensitivity), fenugreek, chromium-rich foods (broccoli, grapes). Anti-androgenic: Spearmint tea (2 cups daily reduces testosterone), saw palmetto, green tea. Spleen-strengthening: Warm cooked meals, sweet potato, pumpkin, ginger. Avoid completely: Refined sugar, white flour, dairy (increases Damp and androgens), soy in excess, processed foods.

Herbs for PCOS

Cinnamon (Rou Gui): Warms Kidney Yang, improves insulin sensitivity. White Peony (Bai Shao): Balances hormones, reduces testosterone. Licorice (Gan Cao): Harmonizes formulas, supports adrenal function. Peony-Licorice combination (Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang): Classical formula for hormone balance. Chinese Angelica (Dang Gui): Nourishes Blood, regulates menstruation.

Acupressure Points

SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Spleen-Liver-Kidney intersection — the master point for women's health. CV4 (Guanyuan): Nourishes Kidney and uterus. ST36 (Zusanli): Strengthens Spleen, improves metabolism. SP9 (Yinlingquan): Drains Damp — addresses cysts and water retention. LV3 (Taichong): Moves Liver Qi — balances hormones. BL23 (Shenshu): Strengthens Kidney — regulates hormones. Zigong (Palace of Child): Extra point, 4 fingers below navel, 3 fingers lateral — directly supports ovaries.

Lifestyle for PCOS

1. Exercise 30+ minutes daily (improves insulin sensitivity). 2. Maintain healthy weight (even 5% weight loss restores periods). 3. Sleep before 11 PM. 4. Reduce stress (cortisol worsens PCOS). 5. Avoid endocrine disruptors (BPA-free containers). 6. Inositol supplement (myo-inositol improves ovulation). 7. Track basal body temperature to monitor ovulation.