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Month: October 2024

40 Days for 40 Years – Why Postpartum Recovery Matters and How to Support It

Posted on by aetheriumhealth

Many cultures emphasize the importance of rest and recovery after childbirth. For example, in Chinese tradition, Zuo Yue Zi or “sitting the month,” encourages new mothers to rest for 40 days while family members take care of daily tasks. The mother’s primary focus is bonding with and feeding the baby. Similarly, La Cuarentena, a Latin American tradition, supports a 40-day postpartum period of rest, recovery, and social care for new mothers. The word cuarentena translates to “quarantine.”

During this time, mothers are nourished with restorative broths to promote healing and lactation. Keeping warm is emphasized, as postpartum bodies are more vulnerable to cold. Traditionally, new mothers are advised to avoid washing their hair, going outside, or consuming cold or raw foods. Emotional well-being is also protected by limiting visitors, screen time, and external stressors.

Adapting these traditions to modern life may seem challenging. Parental leave is often short, and societal expectations can pressure new parents to “bounce back” quickly. This can make it difficult to carve out time for proper recovery.

It’s time to rethink these norms. Parenthood is both physically and emotionally demanding. You’ve brought new life into the world, and now is the time to focus on healing, bonding, and self-care.

So, how can we incorporate these traditional principles of postpartum care into today’s fast-paced society? Below are five ways to help ease your postpartum recovery:

1. Set an Intention

Decide how long your recovery period will be. While 40 days may not be realistic for everyone, consider adopting the 5-5-5 postpartum recovery guideline. This plan suggests:

  • 5 days in bed: days 1-5, rest in bed and spend time skin-to-skin with your baby.
  • 5 days on the bed: days 6-10, sit up and engage gently, whether that’s playing with your baby or spending time with other children.
  • 5 days around the bed: days 11-15, begin light activities, while still staying close to the bed.

Setting a clear intention for a specific period of rest can aid physical healing, improve emotional well-being, and even help prevent medical complications.

2. Develop a Postpartum Plan

Before the baby arrives, create a postpartum plan that outlines who will be supporting you, and how. This could include:

  • Who will assist you and the baby.
  • Meal prep and childcare help.
  • When you plan to return to work.

If you don’t yet have a team that includes an acupuncturist, herbalist, pelvic floor therapist, lactation consultant, or perinatal psychologist, now is a great time to explore those options. A detailed plan helps address both your needs and those of your household, from grocery shopping to bill payments. Clear communication with your support team can prevent future misunderstandings and stress.

3. Stock Your Freezer

Many traditional confinement meals freeze well. Consider making slow-cooked stews or other bulk meals that you can store for later. A great resource is The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou, Amely Greeven, and Marisa Belger.

If you’re working with practitioners like those at Aetherium, they may provide herbal remedies that can be cooked with meals to enhance healing, boost lactation, and support emotional well-being.

4. Gather Your Village

In many cultures, the postpartum period involves community support. Mothers, aunties, and close family members or friends may assist with cooking, chores, and childcare. It’s less about caring for the baby, and more about caring for the new mother.

If you’re able, consider hiring additional support, such as a postpartum doula, a cleaner, or a nanny to help with older children so you can focus on bonding with your new baby. Identify where you need help and delegate those tasks to others.

5. Be Gentle with Yourself

Follow the confinement principles that resonate most with you. Do the best you can, but also give yourself grace—becoming a new mother is a big transition. Take time to learn how practices like acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be integrated into your recovery, especially if you’re experiencing postpartum blues, aches, or just not feeling like yourself.

Learn more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be part of your postpartum recovery, especially if you are experiencing the postpartum blues, aches, or just not feeling like yourself.

How TCM Promotes a Healthy Pregnancy & Helps Mothers Regain Vitality After Childbirth

Posted on by aetheriumhealth

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is gaining popularity in the United States for its integrative and holistic approach to health. While TCM is widely recognized for alleviating pain and chronic conditions, its benefits extend far beyond these areas. TCM treatments are often combined with Western medicine to promote overall wellness, offering a balanced approach to health.

A growing application of TCM is in the field of fertility. Many patients undergoing fertility treatments, such as timed intercourse, IVF, or IUI, incorporate TCM to support their journey. But did you know that TCM’s benefits don’t stop once you’ve conceived?

TCM continues to support women at every stage of their fertility journey—before conception, during pregnancy, and after childbirth. Expectant mothers find TCM particularly appealing as it involves no chemicals or invasive procedures that might harm the baby or cause side effects for the mother. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, nutritious diet, regular exercise, and emotional well-being, TCM can help mothers experience a smoother, healthier pregnancy.

Moreover, TCM is invaluable during the postpartum period, helping women regain strength and vitality, particularly during the first month after childbirth, known as the “confinement” period. This time is considered crucial for recovery in TCM. Whether you’re pregnant or preparing for childbirth, here’s how TCM can support you on your journey.

Supporting Women Through Pregnancy with TCM Treatments

Acupuncture:

A common misconception is that pregnant women should avoid acupuncture. In fact, acupuncture has been used safely for pregnant women for over 3,000 years to treat a variety of symptoms. A licensed acupuncturist with expertise in fertility and pregnancy support will ensure the safety of both mother and baby during treatment.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin, causing minimal to no pain. You might experience a slight ache or pressure, which is normal as your body’s imbalances are being addressed.

At Aetherium, we’ve supported women with various pregnancy symptoms, including:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Insomnia
  • Constipation
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Abdominal pain
  • Threatened miscarriages
  • Breathlessness/suffocating sensation

Though the second trimester is often the most comfortable part of pregnancy, acupuncture can still alleviate lingering discomforts. Treatments during this time help stimulate blood and Qi flow. Acupuncture is sometimes combined with moxibustion—a therapy that applies heat to the meridians for added symptom relief.

In the third trimester, acupuncture treatments are increased to prepare the body for labor. Specific acupoints may be stimulated to soften the cervix and help the baby move into the correct position for birth, especially if the baby is in a breech position.

Herbal Medicine:

Chinese herbal medicine has been used among pregnant women in China for centuries. However, in the U.S., herbal treatments during pregnancy are only prescribed, when necessary, typically in the first trimester, to address issues such as habitual miscarriages, IVF/IUI care, or nausea. The herbs prescribed are safe for both mother and fetus, but it’s crucial to only take them under the supervision of a licensed herbalist.

While TCM offers significant benefits, it’s important to remember that these treatments are complementary and should not replace Western medical care. Continue regular visits to your obstetrician or midwife to monitor your baby’s health.

Supporting Women After Childbirth with TCM Treatments

Most mothers focus on maintaining their health during pregnancy, but the postpartum period is equally important. In today’s fast-paced world, postpartum care is often overlooked, yet paying attention to your well-being after childbirth is essential for long-term health—for both you and your baby.

Postpartum acupuncture and herbal medicine can play a vital role in recovery. At Aetherium, we recommend beginning with herbal treatments at home during the first month, also known as the confinement period. Typically we prescribe herbs that can be cooked into broths for nourishment, lactation support, and vitality. Herbal medicinal can also be prescribed if women experience more complicated postpartum issues. Once you feel ready (usually after 15 days), we suggest postpartum acupuncture sessions.

Postpartum acupuncture and herbal medicine may help address common postnatal issues such as:

  • Postpartum depression
  • Abdominal pain
  • Persistent lochial discharge
  • Joint pain
  • Night sweats
  • Constipation
  • Lactation and mastitis support
  • Digestive issues
  • Vitality recovery

Conclusion:

TCM offers a natural, integrative approach to pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Whether through acupuncture or herbal medicine, TCM can help mothers feel their best during this transformative time. A healthy body lays the foundation for a fulfilling life with your newborn. Learn more about how we can support your pregnancy and postpartum recovery at Aetherium.

Herbal Foot Soaks: A Foundation for Health

Posted on by aetheriumhealth

During my time working in China, one practice stood out as both universal and vital to maintaining health: herbal foot soaks. In nearly every city I visited, it seemed that footbaths were as common as a cup of tea, and there was a good reason for it. Foot soaks have deep roots in Chinese medicine and play an essential role in both daily wellness and treatment for many chronic conditions. But why are feet so important, and how do these soaks actually benefit the body?

Foot Soaks: The Foundation of Wellbeing

Feet are the foundation of the body’s “house” system. With one-fourth of the body’s bones, over 72,000 nerve endings, and six acupuncture meridians (liver, gall bladder, kidney, bladder, spleen, and stomach) running through them, feet are deeply connected to our overall health. Over 70 acupuncture points are found in the feet alone, making them highly sensitive and influential in regulating the body’s energy.

Hua Tuo, one of the most respected physicians in Chinese history, wrote in his classic The Way of Feet (华佗《足心道》), “A man has feet, just as a tree has roots. A tree’s roots are depleted before it dies, and a man’s feet fail before he grows old.” (人有脚，犹如树有根。树枯根先竭，人老脚先衰). This wisdom reminds us that as we age, the health of our feet often declines first, which can set off a chain reaction that affects the rest of the body.

The Impact of Modern Lifestyles on Our Feet

As children, we moved freely—running, jumping, and climbing, absorbing each impact with grace. Our bodies, particularly our feet, were designed for this level of activity. But in modern society, our movement often decreases with age. Our feet—perhaps the most abused and least cared for part of the body—are particularly impacted by our sedentary lifestyles.

Reduced circulation can cause our feet to become cold and stiff. For some, this leads to issues like varicose veins or edema. Over time, as our feet lose flexibility and warmth, the muscles and fascia begin to tighten. This stiffness can travel upward to affect our knees, hips, back, and even our necks. What started as a problem in the feet soon becomes a systemic issue, causing joint pain, poor circulation, and inflammation. Left unchecked, poor foot health can even impact cardiovascular health, leading to more serious conditions like stroke or heart disease.

The Healing Power of Herbal Foot Soaks

Daily foot soaks are an effective way to break this cycle, especially in the winter or for individuals experiencing cold feet, poor circulation, or conditions like Raynaud’s. Even if you’re generally healthy, foot soaks offer a soothing form of relaxation and immune support.

So how do they work?

The warm water from the soak causes blood vessels in the feet and lower legs to dilate, increasing circulation. As fresh blood flows into the feet, the herbal components in the soak—particularly the volatile oils and terpenes—are absorbed through the skin. These herbs, with their natural healing properties, start to work immediately.

The effects are felt not just locally but throughout the body. People often report a warming sensation moving up from their feet to their knees or even their upper legs. Some feel increased circulation in their ears, while others notice a mild increase in heart rate, similar to what you’d experience during light exercise. For those dealing with chronic pain or limited mobility, this mild cardiovascular boost is incredibly beneficial. In cases of chronic illness, the body may even produce a mild sweat, helping to detoxify.

Within the body, herbal foot soaks work like a shaken snow globe, reactivating stagnant areas. Over time, impurities that have collected in the feet and legs are released back into circulation, allowing the immune system to rid the body of these excesses and promoting overall health.

What Are Foot Soaks Used For?

In our clinic, we use herbal foot soaks as both primary and adjunct therapy for many conditions. Some of the key conditions we address include:

  • Autoimmune diseases (Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis)
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Peripheral neuropathy (due to diabetes, chemotherapy, or other causes)
  • Low back pain, sciatica, and arthritis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Cardiovascular issues
  • Gynecological issues (infertility, PCOS, dysmenorrhea)

Conclusion: Take Time for Your Feet

Daily foot soaks are a simple yet powerful way to care for your overall health. Whether you’re dealing with circulatory issues, chronic pain, or simply seeking a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation, foot soaks can provide profound benefits. They not only improve circulation but also help to detoxify the body, support mitochondrial function, and even enhance immunity. For those looking to elevate their self-care routine, we invite you to try our Tibetan Foot Soaks. These premium-quality herbal foot soaks are wild-crafted by Tibetan farmers and cultivated with leading botanical experts in the high plateau of Tibet. Experience the ancient wisdom of herbal therapy right at your feet.

Herbalism 101

Posted on by aetheriumhealth

For centuries, China and other Asian countries have embraced herbal medicinal therapies. Now, the West is increasingly incorporating Chinese herbal medicine to address a wide range of health concerns.

Chinese herbs are being used globally for treating pain, fertility issues, autoimmune conditions, and chronic illnesses. Unlike other herbal medicines, Chinese herbs contain distinct medicinal components that target specific biological processes based on a person’s symptoms or patterns of disharmony.

The Structure of Herbal Formulas & Their Therapeutic Effects

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbs are almost always combined into formulas, typically containing 8 to 15 herbs. While there are single-herb remedies, formulas are the standard approach. Though animal substances and minerals may be used in TCM, they are only included with patient consent.

Each herb in a formula has a specific role:

  • Chief – The primary herb providing the main therapeutic effect.
  • Deputy – Supports and enhances the action of the chief herb.
  • Assistant – Balances the formula, helps address secondary symptoms, and reduces toxicity.
  • Envoy – Directs the effects to specific organs or meridians and harmonizes the overall formula.

A key distinction between Western and Chinese herbalism is that TCM doesn’t just treat symptoms or diseases. Instead, it addresses the whole person, based on patterns of disharmony. This allows for customized formulations that provide specific therapeutic effects.

Types of Chinese Herbs

The formulation of herbs is just one aspect of treatment; the method of preparation is equally important. Herbs must be carefully selected, properly formulated, and of high quality to be effective. At Aetherium, we typically prescribe herbs in the following forms:

Raw Herbs

Traditionally, raw herbs are prescribed, and they are often associated with old-style apothecaries, where herbs are wrapped in paper. Today, raw herbs are commonly prepared in specialized clinics and are best for acute or severe conditions due to their potency. However, they require time-consuming preparation, and the taste can be unpleasant.

Granulated Herbs

Granulated herbs are dried extracts in powdered form. At Aetherium, we use full-spectrum extracts, ensuring the same balance of chemical constituents as in whole herbs. These herbs are highly effective for both acute and chronic conditions, offering the benefits of raw herbs without the hassle. By simply adding hot water, the herbs become immediately bioavailable.

Patent Pills

Patent pills are pre-made herbal formulas in pill form, convenient and easier to consume. Our pills, sourced from Botanical Biohacking, contain no additives or preservatives and are made from high-quality wildcrafted herbs. While they are effective for acute or common ailments, patent pills are not customizable to the individual, making them more of a one-size-fits-all approach.

What Makes Aetherium’s Herbs Safe and Effective?

We are committed to using only the highest-quality herbs. All herbs undergo rigorous testing for heavy metals, mold, pesticides, and other contaminants, in compliance with FDA, U.S. Pharmacopeia, and EU standards. No sulfur preservatives are used, and most herbs are either ethically wild-harvested or grown in ideal regions with sustainable farming practices. Every batch is traceable from farm to final product, ensuring safety and quality.

Granulated Herb Preparation Methods

The most common way to take granulated herbs is by mixing the powder with hot water to create a decoction. They can also be consumed as capsules or tablets, applied topically as herbal pastes, or used in foot or bath soaks. While capsules and tablets offer convenience, decoctions are absorbed more effectively by the body, making them the most potent method. Capsules tend to be more easily absorbed than tablets.

At Aetherium, we use Treasure of the East herbal extracts, which are five times more concentrated than traditional bulk herbs. Typical dosage ranges from 4.5 to 6 grams, taken twice daily, depending on age, weight, and condition. Detailed dosage instructions are provided to ensure proper use.

The Role of Acupuncture in Labor Induction: A Holistic Approach to Birth

Posted on by aetheriumhealth

Giving birth is a deeply transformative experience, and the type of care women receive during labor and delivery (L&D) can have lasting physical and emotional effects. This is especially true for women who wish to take an active role in their labor experience.

In recent years, labor induction (IOL) has become a more common medical intervention. While studies suggest that IOL can be a safe option with outcomes comparable to expectant management, some women report negative experiences after undergoing IOL. These include increased pain, longer labor, a greater need for medical interventions, and a lack of autonomy and support during the process.

In contrast, spontaneous labor tends to minimize interventions, medicalization, and can result in a more positive birth experience.

Why Induction is Offered

Labor induction is often recommended when continuing the pregnancy poses risks for the mother or baby. Common reasons include:

  • Pregnancy extending beyond the due date
  • Pre-term or pre-labor rupture of the membranes
  • Health concerns like pre-eclampsia or poor fetal growth

However, many women seek complementary therapies, like acupuncture, alongside conventional medical practices to naturally induce labor.

Acupuncture and Labor Induction

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure uses manual pressure. Both techniques have been traditionally used to help soften and dilate the cervix and encourage the onset of labor contractions. By supporting the body’s natural processes, acupuncture may help reduce labor pain and avoid the need for more invasive induction methods.

The Growing Demand for Integrative Approaches

Medical inductions have increased worldwide, partly due to the rising age and obesity rates among pregnant women. While these inductions can be necessary, they may also come with side effects. As a result, many women are turning to integrative methods, like acupuncture, as a gentler approach to initiate labor.

Studies have shown promising results. Zamora-Brito et al. (2024) conducted a systematic review and found a statistically significant increase in spontaneous labor onset in women who received acupuncture compared to those who did not.

Smith et al (2020) found that acupuncture had the potential to reduced caesarean sections when acupressure was used in labor. Moreover, Levett et al. (2016) reported that acupressure has also shown to significantly reduce the need for epidurals and caesarean sections when used as part of a complimentary antenatal intervention.

Clinical Insights

Many women come to our practice believing that one acupuncture session is enough to induce labor. However, labor induction through acupuncture is often a gradual process, respecting the natural rhythm of the mother and baby. The mother and baby must have time to communicate and prepare for the journey ahead.

Women who experience success with acupuncture for labor induction typically come in frequently, often beginning at 36 weeks of pregnancy. Ideally at 36 weeks acupuncture is administrated 2-3 times a week to encourage beneficial hormonal responses for labor preparation. At 38 weeks women are coming in for acupuncture treatments every 2-3 days until labor commences. Patients are also provided handouts for their partner to start applying acupressure at home.  

In some cases, women have been under our care throughout their pregnancy, which helps minimize adverse pregnancy outcomes and prepare the body for labor.

A Gentle, Empowering Approach to Birth

Labor is a profound dance between mother and baby, and acupuncture offers a holistic approach to supporting this process. By integrating acupuncture into their birth plan, many women can experience a more natural and empowered labor.

References:

Levett, K. M., Smith, C. A., Bensoussan, A., & Dahlen, H. G. (2016). Complementary therapies for labour and birth study: a randomised controlled trial of antenatal integrative medicine for pain management in labour. BMJ open, 6(7), e010691. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010691

Smith, C. A., Collins, C. T., Levett, K. M., Armour, M., Dahlen, H. G., Tan, A. L., & Mesgarpour, B. (2020). Acupuncture or acupressure for pain management during labour. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2(2), CD009232. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD009232.pub2

Zamora-Brito, M., Fernández-Jané, C., Pérez-Guervós, R., Solans-Oliva, R., Arranz-Betegón, A., & Palacio, M. (2024). The role of acupuncture in the present approach to labor induction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American journal of obstetrics & gynecology MFM, 6(2), 101272. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.101272