TCM Treatment for Urinary Incontinence and Prostate Issues: Addressing the Root of Kidney Deficiency
In a recent interview, Dr Li Rui mentioned that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views urinary incontinence as a result of "Kidney Qi deficiency" and "Sinking of Middle Qi." She explained: "Many patients suffer from weak Kidney Qi, which impairs the body's 'astringent' or holding function, leading to the inability to control urination." Treatment should follow the principles of warming the Kidneys and strengthening the Spleen. Common prescriptions include Ba Wei Di Huang Wan combined with Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang. Dr Li Rui also shared that for some patients, combining these with acupuncture can yield even better results.
Dr Li Rui specifically reminds men that if they experience frequent urination, urinary incontinence, weak urine flow, or difficulty urinating, they may be suffering from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
He said: "TCM believes that the gradual decline of overall bodily functions in men, leading to insufficient Kidney Yang, Yin-Yang imbalance, and Qi and Blood stagnation, are the primary causes of prostate enlargement." This condition is characterized by Kidney Yang deficiency as the root (Ben) and blood stasis as the manifestation (Biao). Treatment must address both: the main principle is to warm and tonify Kidney Yang, often using formulas like You Gui Wan combined with Zuo Gui Wan.
Dietary Therapy
During the interview, Dr Li Rui also recommended simple dietary recipes that can be used for home care:
• Pig’s Kidney with Yizhiren: 50g of Yizhiren (Black Cardamom) and 1 pig’s kidney, stewed over a low heat.
Dr Li Rui suggests: "This is suitable for those with urinary incontinence and can be consumed regularly."
• Pig’s Stomach with Chinese Yam: 150g of pig’s stomach and 50g to 100g of Chinese Yam (Huai Shan), stewed over a low heat.
Dr Li Rui states: "This stew is particularly suitable for those with excessive urination, as it is effective in strengthening the Spleen and nourishing the Kidneys."
