What is a Healthy Period?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), menstruation is viewed as a vital reflection of a woman’s overall health and the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood. Rather than treating menstruation as a purely reproductive function, TCM considers it a window into the balance of the entire body—especially the Liver, Spleen, and Kidneys.

The Menstrual Cycle: A Flow of Qi and Blood

A healthy menstrual cycle depends on the smooth movement of Liver Qi, the nourishment of Spleen-produced Blood, and the deep reserves of Kidney Essence (Jing). These three organ systems work together to regulate the cycle and ensure that menstruation is regular, pain-free, and without excessive or insufficient bleeding.

TCM’s View of a Healthy Period:

• Cycle length: About 28–30 days

• Duration: 3–7 days

• Color: Fresh red

• Flow: Moderate, not too heavy or scanty

• Sensation: No pain, clots, or emotional disturbances

Common Imbalances & TCM Patterns:

• Liver Qi Stagnation: PMS, mood swings, breast tenderness, painful periods

• Blood Deficiency: Scanty periods, pale blood, fatigue, dizziness

• Kidney Deficiency: Irregular or delayed periods, low back pain, infertility

• Cold in the Uterus: Dark blood, painful cramps relieved by warmth

• Heat in the Blood: Heavy bleeding, bright red blood, irritability

Treatment Principles:

TCM treats menstrual disorders by regulating Qi and Blood, nourishing deficiencies, and clearing excesses. Treatments may include:

• Acupuncture to move Liver Qi and relieve pain

• Herbal medicine to tonify Blood or clear Heat

• Dietary therapy to warm the uterus or support the Spleen

• Lifestyle advice such as stress reduction and seasonal living

Menstruation and the Moon:

TCM also sees menstruation as a deeply cyclical and Yin process, mirroring the moon’s phases. Women’s bodies are especially sensitive to natural rhythms, making lifestyle harmony essential for reproductive wellness.

If your period feels out of sync, painful, or irregular, it may be a signal that your body needs rebalancing. A TCM consultation can help uncover the root pattern and guide you toward restored harmony.

Balance your cycle, balance your life