How Acupuncture Relieves Stress and Balances the Gut Microbiome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder in which the intestines lose their ability to efficiently move their contents. The main symptoms of lBS are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation. Less common symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Symptoms may be triggered by stress, diet, emotional factors, hormone levels and medications.

Let's talk acupuncture: Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can offer a safe, effective, natural and drug-free way to address IBS. This holistic healthcare system looks at the body differently than Western medicine. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body is like a garden that must be cultivated and maintained in order to grow strong and remain healthy. Good health happens when all of the organs and meridian systems are balanced and working together.

How does your garden grow?

According to Chinese medical theories, there are several possible causes

for IBS.  One of these is an imbalance of the spleen. The spleen is the

organ in charge of digestion and assimilation of foods and liquids.


spleen Qi.  Spleen Oi is the energy that provides power and nourishment

for the entire body.



If your spleen isn't properly cared for, the body's energy levels will not be supported and illness may occur.

The spleen is easily affected and weakened by poor eating habits and diet, antibiotics, excessive worry, or a weak constitution. When a weakened spleen cannot metabolize or process food efficiently, "dampness" appears in the body. Dampness occurs when rotting, undigested food sits in the gut, causing a variety of symptoms. If dampness "rises" to your head, you may experience headaches, a "foggy" feeling and an inability to concentrate. Over time, dampness can lead to bloating, fullness and loose stools.




An imbalance in kidney yang could also cause IBS symptoms. Kidney yang is energy that provides warmth for your body. This energy warms up your spleen to aid in the digestion and breakdown of food. If your kidney energies are compromised, you may experience early morning diarrhea and possibly bladder incontinence, cold limbs, weak knees and a sore back.


Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can provide a safe, natural, drug-free and effective way to address IBS.

An info graphic for IBS, irritable bowel syndrome. The graphic shows a man holding his stomach in pain. Next to the man are 9 circle graphics layed out in a grid pattern. Each circle has various pictures of food, brain, intestines, toilet and lower abdominal sensations.