Exploration on the Methods of Herbal Medicine Treatment on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Course overview

Western Perspective Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) involves heightened responses to traumatic events, often leading to severe episodic memory (EM) impairments, a key focus of current research. The prefrontal cortex is recognized for its significant role in both PTSD and EM dysfunction. Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM PTSD is viewed as a disruption in qi and blood flow caused by emotional and physical stress. Symptoms such as nightmares, persistent negative emotions, sleep disorders, and sensitivity reflect imbalances in liver qi, kidney qi, and spleen function. Treatments are tailored based on individual constitutions and mental states, focusing on restoring balance through herbal formulas, dietary guidance, and addressing underlying physiological imbalances. Common remedies include Xiao Yao San for insomnia and Tian Wan Bu Xin Tang for fear and fright. Holistic Insights TCM emphasizes integrating food therapy, such as red foods for heart health and black foods for kidney support, while avoiding raw, cold, or overly spicy items. Meditation and traditional practices, guided by syndrome differentiation, complement physical treatments. This holistic approach seeks to address both physiological and emotional imbalances, offering a comprehensive pathway for recovery. Taught by Christine Chang Dr. Chang has represented the U.S. TCM profession internationally, serving as a delegate to ISO TC249 meetings and contributing to the ICD11 working group for the WHO. She has been an herbal consultant, an interpreter for lectures by Dr. Wei Chieh Young, and part of the pioneering team introducing acupuncture in emergency care at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles. With expertise in pain management, womens health, geriatrics, and internal medicine, Dr. Chang integrates diet, nutrition, and herbal formulas with Tui Na in her teaching and private practice in Santa Monica and Los Angeles, CA.