Phobiasaccording to TCM

What Are Phobias?

Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities that provoke an overwhelming sense of dread and anxiety. These fears go beyond normal caution and can significantly disrupt daily life, causing individuals to avoid certain triggers altogether. Common phobias include fear of heights, spiders, flying, or social situations, each of which can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe panic. Medically, phobias are classified as anxiety disorders and are treated with a combination of therapy, medication, and behavioral strategies to help individuals manage their symptoms and regain control over their lives.

How Does TCM View Phobias?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), phobias are seen as manifestations of internal imbalances, particularly related to the Heart, Spleen, and Kidneys. These organs are believed to influence the mind and emotions, with phobias often arising when their harmony is disrupted.

For example, a Deficiency in Heart Blood may lead to anxiety and fearfulness, while a lack of Kidney Essence can cause a deep-seated fear that undermines a person's sense of security. TCM treatment focuses on identifying the specific pattern of disharmony contributing to the phobia, and then using a combination of acupuncture, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments to restore balance and alleviate the symptoms.

Acupoints for Phobias

Acupuncture is a key component of TCM for addressing phobias, with specific acupoints chosen to calm the mind and balance the body's energies. One commonly recommended point is Fenglong (ST-40), located on the Stomach Channel. This acupoint is situated midway between Dubi (ST-35) and Jiexi (ST-41), just off the anterior crest of the tibia.

Fenglong is known for its ability to resolve Dampness and Phlegm, which are seen as contributing to mental disturbances in TCM. Additionally, it calms the mind, opens the Mind's orifices, and helps to subdue Rebellious Qi, making it particularly effective for reducing the anxiety and irrational fears associated with phobias.

See more details below about Fenglong ST-40, an acupoint used to address phobias.

Fenglong ST-40

Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.