The thyroid is a vital endocrine gland responsible for metabolism, temperature regulation, heart rate control, and the stability of the nervous system. In Singapore's fast-paced and high-pressure environment, the incidence of thyroid-related diseases has risen annually. These conditions are particularly prevalent among women and have become a significant health concern in urban populations.
TCM Treatment for Thyroid Disorders
Harmonizing Qi and Blood, Treating Both Symptoms and Root Causes
TCM Perspective on Thyroid Disorders
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) categorizes these conditions under the term "Ying Bing." The pathology often involves emotional distress, stagnant Liver Qi, phlegm-dampness accumulation, or deficiencies in Qi, Blood, and Kidney Yin. TCM treatment emphasizes "Syndrome Differentiation," aiming to adjust organ functions as a whole. By harmonizing Qi and Blood, soothing the Liver, and clearing heat, TCM seeks to fundamentally improve the constitution and regulate the endocrine system.
Common thyroid issues include:
TCM Treatment Methods for Thyroid Diseases
1. Internal Herbal Medicine
- Stagnant Liver Qi: (Common with stress) Formulas like Xiao Yao San are used to soothe the Liver and regulate emotions.
- Phlegm-Dampness Accumulation: Formulas like Haizao Yuhu Tang or Er Chen Tang are used to resolve phlegm and soften nodules.
- Qi and Blood Deficiency: Si Jun Zi Tang or Ba Zhen Tang are used to boost vitality and strengthen the constitution.
- Kidney Yin Deficiency with Hyperactivity of Fire: Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan or Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan are used to nourish Yin and clear heat.
2. Acupuncture Regulation
Acupuncture stimulates the endocrine and nervous systems to improve thyroid metabolism. Key points include Taichong, Hegu, Tiantu, Ganshu, and Sanyinjiao. Combining this with moxibustion can be highly effective for those with functional abnormalities.
3. External Herbal Application & Auricular Therapy
For patients with thyroid enlargement or nodules, TCM uses external herbal pastes to soften hardness. Auricular (ear) point therapy further helps coordinate the nervous and endocrine systems.
Advantages of TCM Treatment
Case Study
Ms. Chen, a 30-year-old IT employee, suffered from hand tremors, heart palpitations, and irritability due to hyperthyroidism. After experiencing stomach discomfort from Western medication, she sought help from Dr Li Rui.
Diagnosed with "Liver Fire and Yin Deficiency," she was treated with a combination of Xiao Yao San, Zhi Bai Di Huang Tang, and acupuncture. After three months, her thyroid function normalized, palpitations ceased, and her weight recovered. She successfully reduced and eventually stopped Western medication while continuing TCM to prevent recurrence.
Dr Li Rui
MOH-registered TCM physician with a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and over 30 years of clinical experience
Dr Li Rui holds a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in endocrine regulation, particularly in treating hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
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