Latest news with #TraditionalChineseMedicine
Tatler Asia
3 hours ago
- Tatler Asia
From onsen to jjimjilbang: why Asian bathing rituals deserve a spot on your travel bucket list
2. Korea's jjimjilbang experience The Korean jjimjilbang is less a bathhouse than a wellness complex. You can also consider it a social institution. You'll find hot tubs, cold plunge pools and sauna rooms lined with jade or charcoal, as well as lounge areas where families nap, snack and rehydrate. Bathing here is equal parts cleansing and bonding, done in the buff and unhurried. Between scrubs and steams, it's not uncommon to catch up on TV dramas or sip sweet sikhye in your robe. In a culture known for hustle, the jjimjilbang is the great equaliser of rest. 3. Thailand's herbal steams and postnatal rituals In Thailand, bathing culture is tied closely to healing. Herbal steam baths, traditionally made with lemongrass, kaffir lime, turmeric and camphor, are part of postnatal recovery for Thai women and still practiced in rural villages. Unlike the stillness of an onsen, these baths are more sensory and humid, often followed by a compress massage or light body scrub. The Thai philosophy of wellness is circular: cleanse, warm, heal, rest. And whether in a spa or a village hut, the ritual remains the same. See more: 13 of the most beautiful spas around the world for a relaxing wellness holiday 4. Taiwan's alkaline waters and mountain soaks Taiwan's mountainous spine is home to a lesser-known but thriving hot spring culture. These springs, often set in lush forested regions, offer water profiles ranging from iron-rich red springs to rare alkaline carbonate waters believed to smooth skin and relieve fatigue. Bathing here often comes with panoramic views—soaking becomes both a physical and visual reset. Unlike in Japan, Taiwanese bathhouses often welcome mixed-gender or swimwear-friendly formats, making them more approachable for newcomers. 5. Vietnam's hilltop baths and medicinal steepings In Vietnam's northern highlands, ethnic minority groups have long practised herbal bathing as a form of seasonal cleansing and health preservation. These steeped baths are often dark with tree bark, roots and forest herbs, which are used to relieve cold, fatigue and even spiritual malaise. Increasingly, these traditions are being revived not just as cultural heritage, but as boutique wellness draws. The smell alone—woody, sharp, earthy—lingers in memory long after the water's gone. 6. China's communal baths and medicinal soaking China's public bathhouses have deep roots in both social life and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Here, hot water is more than just about comfort, but a tool for balance. Baths might be infused with mugwort, chrysanthemum or goji berries, targeting everything from circulation to energy flow. Communal bathing still thrives in many cities and small towns, though modern versions now incorporate saunas, massage rooms and herbal tea lounges. The vibe is less retreat, more rhythm of life.
Epoch Times
a day ago
- Health
- Epoch Times
Effective Remedies for Heatstroke and Cooling Foods to Beat the Summer Heat
In the 'Health 1+1' program, Chen Junru, director of the Wonderful TCM Clinic in Taiwan, discussed ways to prevent and treat heatstroke, as well as foods that can help cool the body. When exposed to extreme heat, the body's temperature rises rapidly. If the body's natural sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down, Progression of Heatstroke: Symptoms and Causes According to Chen, heatstroke progresses through three stages, ranging from mild to severe. Heat Cramps Symptoms: Involuntary muscle contractions that cause pain, lasting from one to three minutes. Common areas include the thighs, calves, arms, and abdomen, creating a sensation of muscle tightness or spasms. Cause: Prolonged physical activity in a hot and humid environment without adequate hydration leads to excessive sweating, which results in electrolyte loss and imbalance, triggering muscle cramps. Heat Syncope (Fainting) Symptoms: Dizziness, nausea, and temporary loss of consciousness. Cause: Prolonged standing in a hot environment. To regulate body temperature, blood vessels near the skin expand to release heat, causing blood redistribution. This can result in a significant amount of blood pooling in the limbs, reducing blood flow to the brain and causing fainting. Heat Exhaustion Symptoms: Profuse sweating, fatigue, overall weakness, and shortness of breath. Cause: Excessive sweating without sufficient replenishment of fluids or electrolytes can lead to circulatory failure if left untreated. TCM Classification of Heatstroke From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chen said, heatstroke can be classified into two types, each with different causes.
Epoch Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Epoch Times
The Silent Signals of Liver Disease: Traditional Treatments and Natural Care Approaches
The liver is often referred to as the 'silent organ' because it typically produces no clear symptoms, even when serious conditions like cancer develop. However, before liver disease takes hold, subtle warning signs do sometimes emerge, though they are frequently overlooked. In an episode of the 'Health 1+1' program, Jonathan Liu, a professor of Traditional Chinese Medicine at a Canadian public university and director of the Kangmei TCM Clinic, explained how TCM views liver disease not just as a physical issue, but as an imbalance of internal energy—known as qi . When liver qi first becomes stagnant, timely care—combined with mindful diet, acupressure, and lifestyle changes—can help restore balance and prevent more serious disease.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Chinese woman suffers brain hemorrhage, slips into coma after sunbathing during extreme heatwave; know the safe limit and health risks
Source: SCMP In a shocking case that has triggered widespread concern and debate across China, a 67-year-old woman from Zhejiang province slipped into a coma after sunbathing her back for two hours in intense summer heat. Following a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) belief that the practice could 'warm yang energy and dispel dampness,' the woman—identified only by her surname, Wang—collapsed shortly after the self-treatment attempt. She was later diagnosed with a brain haemorrhage and brain hernia, requiring emergency surgery. The incident has reignited public conversations about unsafe traditional remedies, elderly heatstroke risk, and the deadly toll of extreme temperatures. Woman in coma after attempting viral sunbathing trend According to SCMP reports, Wang reportedly attempted the back-sunbathing ritual around noon, exposing herself to peak ultraviolet radiation and extreme heat. The method, which claims to balance internal energy or 'yang qi' by soaking in sunlight, has been circulating in wellness circles online—despite no medical backing. According to experts, prolonged sun exposure without protection—especially during midday—can dangerously raise core body temperature, leading to complications like heatstroke, dehydration, and in Wang's case, aneurysmal cerebral haemorrhage. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Moments after returning indoors, Wang lost consciousness and had to be rushed to the hospital. Doctors at Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital confirmed that Wang had suffered severe brain trauma. An immediate operation saved her life, but she remained comatose for a significant period. Ye Xiangming, Director of the hospital's Rehabilitation Department, noted the complications of prolonged immobility, including muscle atrophy and organ stress. Wang's recovery involved multiple surgeries, acupuncture therapy, and months of rehabilitation. Eventually, she regained basic abilities such as sitting, talking, and eating—though full recovery remains uncertain. Doctors urge caution as viral sunbathing trends endanger public health Medical professionals strongly discouraged the uncritical adoption of traditional sunbathing remedies. 'There is no scientific basis to the claim that sunbathing cures all diseases,' Dr. Ye stressed. Particularly for the elderly and those with hypertension or cardiovascular issues, extreme heat can be lethal. Zhuangshi Lihe, a Chinese medical influencer with over 2 million followers, echoed the warning: 'People are romanticizing this nonsense. In high summer temperatures, even healthy individuals should focus on sun protection and heatstroke prevention.' A 2023 report by The Lancet estimated that heat-related deaths in China reached 50,900 in 2022, making climate-linked health emergencies a growing public health concern. Wang's case, which has gone viral on mainland social media, underscores the urgency of public education on safe health practices, especially among vulnerable age groups. Social media reacts to sunbathing tragedy, urging common sense over viral trends Social media users expressed both sympathy and frustration. One comment read: 'She literally sunbathed with her life. Moderation is key.' Another remarked: 'This is like a human barbecue. Even a healthy person would risk heatstroke—don't blindly follow trends.' While Traditional Chinese Medicine has proven benefits in several areas, experts caution against applying ancient beliefs to modern extreme environments without scientific validation. As temperatures continue to climb globally, stories like Wang's serve as a tragic reminder: health remedies should never come at the cost of safety. Benefits and risks of sunbathing While sunbathing can offer certain health benefits—especially for boosting vitamin D levels—it also comes with serious risks if not practiced with caution. Here's a closer look at the pros and cons of sun exposure, how long you can safely sunbathe, and why moderation is key. Sunbathing benefits Natural Vitamin D production Sunlight triggers the skin to produce vitamin D, an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions. Globally, over 1 billion people are estimated to be deficient in vitamin D, making sun exposure a valuable natural remedy. Hard to obtain from food alone Vitamin D is found in limited food sources like fatty fish and egg yolks, but most people rely on fortified foods such as milk or dietary supplements. Sunlight offers a direct, cost-free alternative for improving vitamin D levels. Improved mood and reduced depression Sunlight stimulates the release of serotonin, a brain chemical linked to enhanced mood, calmness, and emotional stability. This can help alleviate symptoms of depression or improve general well-being. Better sleep cycles Exposure to sunlight helps regulate the circadian rhythm, your body's internal clock. This natural rhythm makes it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up refreshed in the morning. Stronger bones and joint health Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption, which strengthens bones and may lower the risk of osteoporosis and arthritis, particularly in older adults. Enhanced immunity Vitamin D plays a role in supporting the immune system, helping protect against heart disease, multiple sclerosis, the flu, and certain autoimmune conditions and cancers. Reduced risk of preterm labor For pregnant women, sufficient vitamin D levels may help lower the chances of preterm delivery and infections during childbirth. Note: The American Academy of Dermatology advises against using sun exposure as your main source of vitamin D, recommending supplements and diet instead for safer intake. Hidden dangers of excessive sunbathing Sun rash and heat rash Overexposure to sunlight can lead to sun rash—an itchy, red irritation caused by blocked sweat glands, commonly referred to as heat rash. Painful sunburns and skin damage Unprotected sunbathing can result in sunburns, which cause pain, blistering, and long-term skin damage. Repeated sunburns are a major risk factor for melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Sun poisoning (PMLE) Some individuals develop polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) or sun poisoning, a condition that presents as red, itchy bumps typically on the chest, legs, or arms after intense UV exposure. How long is it safe to sunbathe According to Healthline reports, most dermatologists agree that 5 to 20 minutes of sun exposure per day—without sunscreen—can be safe for individuals without skin sensitivities. However, this depends on: Your skin type and sensitivity to sun Geographic location (proximity to the equator) Time of day (UV rays peak around noon) Air quality, which can influence UV exposure Also Read | 5 coffee routine habits that could be doing more harm than good, say experts
CNA
2 days ago
- Health
- CNA
A mother endured harrowing hallucinations due to postpartum psychosis – and says it was worth it for her child
Rainie Ang always knew she wanted to be a mother. She just never expected her motherhood journey to start so traumatically. Married at the age of 31, Ang took two years to conceive, undergoing fertility tests, using ovulation kits and taking Traditional Chinese Medicine. In September 2024, she gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. 'I was overjoyed. I spent my days in hospital cuddling with him and watching him having hiccups,' she smiled. These tender beginnings were abruptly hijacked. After discharge, Ang quickly fell into a babycare and breastmilk-pumping routine. Unable to fall back to sleep, she clocked one to two hours of shuteye each night. Then, on the sixth day after giving birth, her world started to unravel. 'I felt like I was living outside of reality, in another dimension. It was as if this world that I'm living in is not real,' she told CNA Women. Once a happy-go-lucky person, she suddenly struggled to even make the most basic decisions, such as what time to bathe and how to have her confinement meals. 'I was having fishball beehoon and was given a fork-spoon, and chopsticks. I couldn't even make a decision on which one to use. I felt very confused,' she said. She asked her best friend – also a mum – if she had experienced anything similar. She hadn't. She told her mother-in-law about it and was advised to get more rest. But Ang simply couldn't. 'No matter how tired I was, I couldn't sleep at all,' she said. In this disoriented state, she continued her babycare routine the next day. 'I had zero supply of breast milk, but I had been educated that breast milk is better for the baby. So I was pumping every three hours. That afternoon, I pumped for 30 minutes and set a pretty high intensity because I wanted to try my best to produce something,' she recalled. The next thing Ang remembered, she was crying and screaming uncontrollably. 'I can't remember why I was screaming. But I remember I had some delusions. I thought that I couldn't see my husband and baby again because I was locked in the bedroom. I was screaming my husband's name and his phone number,' she recalled. Her husband, mother-in-law, father and sister tried to calm her down, but Ang did not stop screaming until the ambulance arrived an hour later. Ang had had a full-blown episode of postpartum psychosis, a rare but severe mental condition that can emerge shortly after childbirth. "I THOUGHT THE WORLD WAS GOING TO END" At that time, Ang and her family had not even heard of postpartum psychosis, which is a rare mental condition. Her father thought she was exhausted and overwhelmed by motherhood. While accompanying her to hospital in the ambulance, he urged her to engage a helper. UNDERSTANDING POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS Insights from Dr Anne-Marie Simons, consultant at the Institute of Mental Health. Postpartum psychosis is a severe form of mental illness that begins suddenly in the days and weeks after having a baby. Symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, mania or severe confusion. It affects approximately one to two mothers per 1,000 births. While the exact cause is unknown, hormonal fluctuations and sleep deprivation are likely to be contributing factors. Some women who have postpartum psychosis have no previous history of mental illness. However, women who have a history of bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder, those who have had a previous episode of postpartum psychosis, or those with a close relative with postpartum psychosis are at higher risk for developing the condition. Timely treatment is crucial because the postpartum psychosis can progress rapidly over the course of hours or days, risking the health and the safety of both mother and baby. Patients require psychotropic medication, and in some cases, inpatient psychiatric care for close monitoring. With treatment, they usually make a full recovery in six to 12 months – longer in some cases. Note that postpartum psychosis should not be confused with postpartum depression, which is a serious mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth, and involves intense sadness, anxiety and tiredness. I was in disbelief that I was at IMH. 'They inserted a thick needle into my spine to extract eight bottles of liquid from my bone marrow to test for infection. It was very painful. Because they were not able to sedate me for this procedure, I was struggling. The nurses had to pin me down,' she recalled. Subsequently, Ang was sedated for further tests. Awake but immobile, she was pushed into the magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI) machine. 'I thought I was dead and I was in the incinerator. It was very scary,' she said. She awoke from this traumatic experience to find herself in a psychiatric ward at the general hospital. The blinds were drawn and she didn't know if it was morning or night. There, she stayed for a week, awaiting test results and grappling with ominous hallucinations. 'During the day, my husband, father and sister would visit me without fail, so my hallucinations were not so bad. But at night when there weren't any visitors and everything was quiet, the hallucinations were really bad. 'I saw black figures queuing up to enter the ward. I was afraid and asked the nurses who these people were,' she said. 'I also heard construction noise and car accidents, and thought the world was going to end.' 'There was a particular episode where I hallucinated that I gave birth to a baby girl. I saw myself delivering her. It felt very real to me. I thought that the nurses took away my baby, and asked them where my baby was,' she added. Some nights, Ang would simply lie awake, crying. FINDING HER WAY BACK TO REALITY Because doctors at the general hospital could not find any infection, Ang was transferred back to IMH a week later. She continued to hallucinate on her first night at IMH. 'I roomed with 20-plus patients and thought the other patients were toys,' she recalled. But after doctors adjusted her medication, she stopped hallucinating from the second day. She continued to have delusions of grandeur during her stay, however, imagining that she was held at IMH because she was a very important figure. Aside from that, Ang described her final two weeks of hospitalisation as 'uneventful'. She spent most of her time colouring, folding origami and making thousands of paper stars. Throughout her hospitalisation, the new mother was separated from her baby and missed him dearly. 'I just wanted to get well and just get home to see my baby,' she said. Finally, after three weeks of hospitalisation, Ang was discharged on Oct 7, 2024. She returned home just in time for a photo shoot she had previously arranged for her son. Rushing from a psychiatric hospital to a photo shoot was a surreal experience. 'I bathed, put on makeup and the photographer arrived one hour later,' she said, adding that the photographer explained that they could not wait any longer if they wanted to capture a newborn photo of her son. The photo shoot went well. Ang was also ecstatic to be home and reunited with her baby. 'I felt as if I had been given a second chance to live in reality,' she said. With mood stabilisers prescribed by her doctor, Ang's life has since returned to normal. Not wanting to dwell on her ordeal, she threw herself back into work almost immediately. She also cherishes motherhood like never before. Everyday activities like feeding her son, who is now 10 months old, changing his diaper and playing with him feel like a hard-fought victory. Having found her feet again, Ang told CNA Women she decided to share her story to raise awareness for postpartum psychosis and mental illness, so others don't feel alone in their journey. Asked if she has any regrets giving birth to her son, the doting mother replied without hesitation: 'No, I would go through the whole psychosis again to bring my son to this world. Because he is so precious.'
