The treatment of Shen disorders

Shownotes

People in Western societies often suffer from “Shen dysregulation,” even if just for part of the day, observes British-American herbalist Peter Holmes. In the podcast recorded at the TCM Kongress Rothenburg, Germany, he differentiates certain mental-emotional symptoms, such as distraction and confusion, that are clearly different from those of Shen agitation and Shen weakness.

Shen dysregulation is commonly seen and actually precedes the more obvious states of Shen agitation and weakness. It often occurs, for example, in people over-exposed to input and information from electronic media, with multitasking and loss of mental focus as key aspects here. In the podcast, Peter names several acupuncture points for regulating the Shen.

As a herbal medicine practitioner, Peter Holmes has always been very much interested in modern pharmacological research on Chinese Herbs; he discusses his favorite two herbs, Wu Wei Zi (Fructus Schisandrae) and Nu Zhen Zi (Fructus Ligustri). They support brain and neuroendocrine function, and exert superb regulating effects on the immune system.

As Western herbs for Shen disorders he exceptionally recommends Echinacea and Calendula, among others. According to new research, Echinacea improves brain functions by eliminating toxins and resolving damp, and as a result also regulates immune functions, regardless of the type of dysfunction.

Peter Holmes has also pioneered the use of essential oils with acupuncture. He briefly explains the method used in this new treatment modality called Aroma Acupoint Therapy. This approach has good results especially in severe chronic cases, and with Shen disturbance present. It combines well with herbal and nutritional treatment.

More information on future classes taught by Peter Holmes:

In Germany for ABZ-Mitte, Offenbach: ​​​​​​​https://www.abz-mitte.de/index.htm

In Austria for Wiener Schule für TCM: ​​​​​​​https://wstcm.at/

Online for Snow Lotus Seminars: https://www.snowlotus.org/continuing-education-seminars/