I have quit drinking alcohol because it is affecting my health. Can TCM help?

You are suffering from alcohol withdrawal syndrome, which occurs when one cuts down on alcohol or stops drinking it altogether after a prolonged period of excessive intake.

The symptoms include anxiety and nausea. This is due to a deficiency in the functions of the heart, lung, liver, stomach and kidney, insufficient 'qi', 'yin' and blood, and poor 'qi' and blood circulation.

Pathogenic factors such as heat, fire, phlegm and dampness are also responsible. Chinese medicine such as Ginseng (Renshen) and Areca Seed (Binlang) are commonly prescribed to improve circulation of 'qi', while Heartleaf Houttuynia Herb (Yuxingcao) is used to dispel lung heat and calm one's nerves.

Kudzuvine Root (Gegen) increases 'yin', strengthens the digestive system and dispels body heat, while Chinese Angelica (Danggui) improves blood circulation and reduces palpitations.

In addition, Lightyellow Sophora Root (Kushen), Grassleaf Sweetflag Rhizome (Shichangpu) and Pinellia Tuber (Banxia) are used to dispel heat and dampness, as well as minimise nausea.

Abstain from spicy and oily food as these create fire, heat and dampness, as well as weaken the digestive system. Going to bed early can help in the production of 'yin' and blood, which reduces the occurrence of anxiety attacks.

Information provided by Ms Lim Lay Beng, a TCM physician at YS Healthcare TCM Clinic in The Adelphi.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.