How to Treat Anemia
Acupoint massage is an excellent method for health maintenance, capable of preventing and treating diseases, enhancing immunity, and promoting longevity. Women are particularly prone to anemia, and acupoint massage can effectively improve the symptoms of anemia in women. Below, we will introduce five key acupoints that can help alleviate anemia symptoms.
1. Xuehai (Blood Sea) Point
As the saying goes, “To nourish blood, find Xuehai; to nourish Qi, find Qihai.” The Xuehai point (属足太阴脾经之穴) is where the blood generated by the spleen gathers, having the function of transforming blood into Qi and transporting spleen blood. It also has the effect of guiding blood back to the meridian and treating blood disorders. Stimulating the Xuehai point can eliminate stagnant blood in the body and promote the generation of new blood.
Patting or massaging the Xuehai point is effective for women suffering from dysmenorrhea and irregular menstrual flow. Combining this with massage of the Sanyinjiao (Three Yin Intersection) and Taixi (Great Stream) points enhances the effect. For dysmenorrhea accompanied by vomiting, massaging this point along with Zusanli (Leg Three Miles) can provide immediate relief.
Every day from 9-11 AM, pat (10 seconds each time, 3-5 times in a row) or massage (gently for 3 minutes on each side) the Xuehai point, and perform moxibustion on this point from 9-11 PM. This is effective for women with irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and conditions such as obesity and joint pain caused by Qi and blood stagnation.
2. Tianshu (Heavenly Pivot) Point
Regularly stimulating the Tianshu point (足阳明胃经之穴) helps keep the stomach and large intestine meridians active, promoting the circulation of Qi and blood within the stomach meridian and assisting in the transport of Qi and blood from the stomach to the large intestine.
When the Qi and blood in the stomach meridian are abundant, digestive function is enhanced, providing sufficient essential substances for the blood production system, which is the fundamental driving force for nourishing blood. When the Qi and blood in the large intestine meridian are sufficient, it ensures normal excretion functions, preventing both diarrhea and constipation, and keeping the intestines clean, thus protecting against “toxins.” Using the thumbs to apply moderate pressure on both sides of this acupoint, massaging in circular motions from the outside in, 100-200 times daily, nourishes blood and detoxifies.
3. Sanyinjiao (Three Yin Intersection) Point
The Sanyinjiao point (属足太阴脾经之穴) is where the liver, spleen, and kidney converge. The spleen governs blood, the liver stores blood, and the kidneys generate blood; therefore, Sanyinjiao has the function of harmonizing Qi and blood, nourishing the kidneys, and supporting the liver.
Every day at 11 AM, massage this acupoint on the inner sides of both calves for 20 minutes to help expel dampness, turbidity, and toxins from the body, which is effective for conditions like eczema, urticaria, and dermatitis.
Regularly stimulating the Sanyinjiao point nourishes blood, invigorates circulation, and stabilizes blood pressure, particularly showing significant effects for those with low blood pressure.
4. Zusanli (Leg Three Miles) Point
Stimulating the Zusanli point (足阳明胃经之穴) nourishes Qi and blood, replenishes original Qi, and nourishes the brain marrow. It is the first choice for ensuring sufficient liver blood.
This point is particularly beneficial for those experiencing dizziness, tinnitus, neurasthenia, and insufficient gastric motility due to Qi and blood deficiency, as well as for those with liver damage from excessive eye strain or insomnia. Regularly patting, massaging, or performing moxibustion on this point can yield significant improvements.
Massaging or moxibustion on Zusanli warms the middle, disperses cold, strengthens spleen Yang, replenishes Qi, facilitates Qi movement, and strengthens the entire body. Those with excessive gastric acid or heartburn on an empty stomach should avoid moxibustion on Zusanli and may consider using the Yanglingquan (Yang Mound Spring) point instead for good results.
5. Guanyuan (Gate of Origin) Point
Zusanli, Guanyuan, and Qihai are the three major strengthening acupoints in the body. There is an ancient saying, “Needling must take from Sanli, moxibustion must add Guanyuan.” The Guanyuan point is (任脉之穴, also a gathering point for the small intestine) where the original Yin and Yang of the body converge, governing the essence in men and blood in women, and controlling diseases of the three Yin meridians and the small intestine.
Massaging the Guanyuan point enhances the spleen and stomach’s ability to generate Qi and blood. Gently press 8 times in each round, performing 8 rounds to nourish blood and alleviate abdominal discomfort.
