Get in Touch with Tongren Tang Gulf
Traditional Chinese Medicine • Est. 1669
Menopause Treatment — Traditional Chinese Medicine by Tong Ren Tang
350 years of wisdom to support your menopause journey. Our practitioners incorporate ancient herbal formulas, acupuncture and diet therapy for your individual menopausal symptoms – naturally and from every angle.
Herbal Formulas
Personalized prescriptions of classical formulas refined over centuries that focus on the root of your menopausal symptoms.
Acupuncture
Needle stimulation to restore Qi balance, regulate the nervous system, and decrease hot flashes and night sweats.
Dietary Therapy
Chinese Medical dietary therapy programs including phytoestrogen-rich recipes and dietary recommendations for hormonal balancing.
Menopause Challenges — How TCM Restores Your Natural Balance
Menopause relates to the cessation of your menses and menopausal hormone production of estrogen. Most women approach menopause between their mid-40s-50s and this can be spread out over many years.
Hot flashes catch you by surprise. Night sweats cause sleeping problems. Moody moods don’t make sense. Vaginal dryness causes discomfort. Sleep disturbances exhaust you and make everything else more difficult.
TCM views menopause as not something to be fixed, but as another step in the natural progression of aging that has a way of working itself out when imbalances are corrected. The concept of a body’s “Second Spring” expresses the idea of this life passage being a transition of your body’s energy for another cycle of life.
TCM Pattern Differentiation for Menopausal Symptoms
Your TCM practitioner will not give you a massage and tell you you are fixed. Instead you will be know what is causing your symptoms by diagnosis:
Kidney Yin Deficiency
The way your physician diagnoses the most common menopause pattern. When Kidney Yin runs low, the heat starts to rise internally. Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, dry mouth, tinnitus and low back achiness will show up. This situation worsens during perimenopause due to an natural decline of Yin.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Breast tenderness and a feeling of pressure in the chest, irritability, hot temper, redness in the face, mood swings. Liver Qi stagnation is a common side effect of midlife hormonal shifts that contribute to the emotional swings of menopause.
Heart-Spleen Deficiency
Poor sleep, dreaminess, forgetfulness, dizziness and dizziness due to malnourished Heart and Spleen. This condition also involves deficiency of the mind and exhaustion.
Yin Deficiency with Excess Fire
Constant hot flashes, heavy sweating during sleep, feeling restless and rage can indicate significant deficiency of Yin and an excess of heat energy.
Most women display a mixture of symptoms that change throughout time. Your treatment plan will keep in mind the fluctuation you experience – the beauty of individualized TCM care.
Tong Ren Tang’s TCM Treatments—Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture & Whole-Body Care
A. Classic Herbal Formulas
Discussion of classical formulas founded in traditional Chinese medical literature, with allowable modifications for your individual diagnosis.
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (六味地黄丸) For: Kidney Yin Deficiency
The most common formula used in menopausing Kidney Yin depletion, and has been used for over 1,000 years. Six herbs combine to nuture Yin, eliminate deficiency heat and reinforce the Liver-Kidney system, relieving hot flushes, night sweats, dizziness, weak low back and knees.
Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (知柏地黄丸) For: Yin Deficiency with Excess Fire
A reinforced version of Liu Wei Di Huang Wan including Phellodendron (Huang bai) and Anemarrhena (Zhi mu) to eliminate strong deficiency heat. Used when hot flashes are forceful and accompanied by night sweats, fatigue and deep red face.
Xiao Yao San (逍遥散) For: Liver Qi Stagnation
The “Free & Easy Wanderer”. This formula calms the Liver, strengthens the Spleen and helps to nourish Blood. Useful for treating emotions, irritability, mood swings, pressure in the chest and similar issues caused by the status of the menopause.
Gui Pi Tang (归脾汤) For: Heart-Spleen Deficiency
Tonifies Qi, nourishes Blood and calms the spirit. Particularly suited to women presenting at the clinic with insomnia, anxiety, mental exhaustion and lack of concentration as the main symptoms of menopause.
Contemporary Formulations: Tong Ren Tang also offers its traditional formulas in convenient concentrated granules, traditional pills, and individually customized decoctions; your practitioner selects the most suitable form according to your circumstances and treatment requirements.
B. Acupuncture for Menopause
Acupuncture works synergistically with herbal medicine to improve the flow of Qi, relax the nervous system and reduce any menopausal symptoms. By varying the application and focus of needles according to your diagnosed pattern, our acupuncturists needle the following key acupoints:
San Yin Jiao (SP6)
“Three Yin Cross Point”, the point where the Spleen, Liver and Kidney meridians intersect. A fundamental point for gynecological health and tending to one’s hormones.
Tai Xi (KI3)
The Yuan source point of the kidney channel. Replenishing kidney Yin directly is most effective for countering the original deficiency underlying most menopausal symptoms.
Tai Chong (LV3)
Soothes Liver Qi and descends rising Yang. Good for moods such as irritability, headaches, and irritability.
Zu San Li (ST36)
Improves the overall Qi and benefits the digestive system, enabling your body to digest food and herbal formulas more efficiently.
Clinical Research: In the AIM Study (Acupuncture in Menopause); a randomized controlled trial, there was a – 9.64 improvement in 24hr hot flash score for those undergoing acupuncture versus controls.
Number of treatments: In general we suggest 1-2 treatments per week initially for 4-6 weeks. Most women report beginning to experience some benefits within two weeks, with added advantages increasing over time for the duration of treatment.
C. TCM Dietary Therapy
Food acts as a mild, everyday medicine here in TCM. We lead you in your food selections so that you will:
Foods containing phytoestrogens
Soy products, tofu, flax seeds, and sesame seeds contain plant derived substances that may assist in the balancing of estrogen during menopause.
Dang Gui Chicken Soup (当归鸡汤)
A classic blood-nourishing recipe combining Dang Gui (Angelica root) with chicken, goji berries, and red dates. Supports women with blood deficiency patterns.
Goji Berry & Red Date Tea (枸杞红枣茶)
A simple daily drink that nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin while gently tonifying blood. Especially helpful for fatigue and dry skin.
Kidney Yin-nourishing foods
Black sesame, walnuts, and mulberries — recommended as regular dietary additions during menopause.
Have questions about which treatment approach suits your symptoms?
Consult Us Your Questions
TCM vs Hormone Replacement Therapy — What Research Shows
Both TCM and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) address menopausal symptoms, but they work through fundamentally different mechanisms. Estrogen and progesterone supplementation in HRT directly replaces declining hormones. TCM aims to restore the body’s self-regulating capacity through pattern-specific treatment. Here’s how they compare based on current evidence:
| Dimension | TCM Approach | Hormone Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy | Moderate symptom relief demonstrated across multiple RCTs, particularly for vasomotor symptoms and sleep quality | High efficacy (80%+ reduction in hot flashes) |
| Safety Profile | No increased adverse reactions reported in a 2024 systematic review of TCM for menopause-like syndrome | Hazard ratio of 1.22 for breast cancer risk identified in a 2024 cohort study |
| Personalization | Pattern differentiation — treatment tailored to your specific symptom pattern, constitution, and response | Standardized protocols with dose adjustments based on symptoms and risk factors |
| Side Effects | Minimal reported; occasional mild digestive upset when starting herbal formulas | Varies by formulation; may include bloating, breast tenderness, headaches |
| Best For | Mild-to-moderate symptoms, women with HRT contraindications, those seeking a whole-body approach | Moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms, significant quality-of-life impact |
| Long-term Safety | 1,000+ year documented usage history of classical formulas | Current guidelines recommend ≤5 years for combined HRT |
An honest perspective:
TCM menopause treatment is most effective for mild-to-moderate symptoms. Women experiencing severe vasomotor symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning should discuss all options — including HRT — with their healthcare providers. For many women, TCM and conventional medicine work well as complementary approaches.
Choosing the best balance of benefits and risks will depend on your medical history, how severe your symptoms are, and your personal preferences. Our practitioners are happy to talk to you about how TCM may be integrated into your overall menopause care plan, either as an independent therapy or in cooperation with standard medical treatment.
Clinical Evidence — Proven Outcomes from TCM Menopause Care
We want you to be able to review the scientific evidence behind our treatment advice. Below are some of the most significant research findings supporting TCM interventions for menopausal symptoms:
AIM Study — Randomized Controlled Trial
The Acupuncture in Menopause (AIM) trial measured change in 24-hour hot flash score and observed an average 9.64-point improvement for acupuncture groups compared to sham controls. Sleep and mood were also improved.
ACUFLASH Study — Long-term Follow-up
The ACUFLASH trial demonstrated that acupuncture benefit on menopausal hot flashes persisted through 6-12 month follow-up assessments, indicating long-term physiological effects beyond simple symptom suppression.
2024 Systematic Review — TCM for Menopause-Like Syndrome
A Cochrane systematic review (available up to date) concluded that TCM therapies improved outcome measures associated with menopause-like syndrome while not increasing adverse reactions compared to controls. TCM interventions studied included herbal, acupuncture, and combined modalities.
Meta-Analysis — Acupuncture for Hot Flashes
An analysis of several randomized controlled trials showed that acupuncture was significantly more effective than placebo for reducing both frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopause patients. The magnitude of effect was larger than the placebo response.
While acknowledging that some benefit from acupuncture can be explained by placebo the effect that has been confirmed and evidenced across trials. However, the benefits for women living with daily discomfort are clinically meaningful.
All of these results have been observed in perimenopausal women who want to treat symptoms with integrative self-care, women who are in the natural menopause transition, and treatment-induced menopause (such as for patients who cannot take hormones after chemo- or hormone-blocking cancer therapies).
Heritage & Credentials — Why Trust Tong Ren Tang
Tong Ren Tang was founded in 1669 in the reign of the Kangxi Emperor of the Qing Dynasty. We successfully supplied royal courts for 188 years (1723-1911) including every emperor for 8 generations. To be entrusted to prepare the prescribed medicines carrying the imperial mandate required slavedrivers to be executed for failure. We consider these standards the minimum threshold for quality standards in our production – examined and maintained without compromise under penalty of execution whenever necessary.
“Based on the complexity: no compromise on cost and labour; but based on the seriousness of the product: no compromise on quality, even when it is scarce.”
That philosophy translates directly into how we source, test, and prepare our herbal formulas for your menopause treatment. Every ingredient undergoes rigorous quality verification before entering production.
International Quality Certifications
National GMP
All Production Lines
EU GMP
Since 2016
Australian TGA
10 Production Lines
ISO 22000
+ HACCP
Halal + Kosher
Certified
Japan + HK GMP
Certified
Your TCM Menopause Journey — What to Expect
We understand that beginning a new treatment can be daunting. Here is a general description of what goes on when you start your TCM menopause care with Tong Ren Tang:
Step 01
Symptom Assessment
Once you have completed the online menopause symptom questionnaire or schedule a consultation: we collect basic history, present symptoms, goals of therapy, and health history from you. All of this information is available online or in person at your convenience.
Step 02
TCM Diagnosis — The Four Examinations
Votre praticien effectue l’ensemble des quatre examens () – inspection, auscultation et olfaction, interrogatoire et palpation du pouls. Le type de TCM que vous présentez est ainsi déterminé, ainsi que le choix de toutes les interventions ultérieures.
Step 03
Personalized Treatment Plan
According to your diagnosis we prepare a treatment plan with specific Chinese herbal formulas, acupuncture treatments and food therapy suggestions according to your pattern. Your plan is specific to you; every patient is unique!
Step 04
Treatment & Ongoing Follow-up
Tracking and adjustments We will use the co-factors (herbals formula and acupuncture protocols) to follow your progress, making modifications accordingly as your body responds. First significant changes are likely within 4-6 weeks, with consolidation and more thorough balancing happening in the span of 3-6 months. You can always call your practitioner with questions and issues between appointments.
Whether you want face to face appointments or a mixture of online and clinic appointments, we can provide your treatment where and when it’s most convenient for you. Managing menopause is about finding your treatment rhythm.
Book Your ConsultationInitial consultations typically last 45–60 minutes
Tong Ren Tang
Menopause Symptom Self-Assessment
Identify your TCM pattern type and discover the herbal formula that matches your body's unique needs.
Understanding Your Menopause Pattern
Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that menopause symptoms arise from different underlying imbalances. This short assessment helps identify your primary pattern so you can explore the most suitable herbal support.
✓ 8 quick questions
✓ 2 minutes
✓ Personalized result
Your Primary Pattern
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Pattern Breakdown
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This assessment is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a medical diagnosis. TCM pattern identification requires pulse and tongue diagnosis by a qualified practitioner. Book a consultation for a personalized assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About TCM for Menopause
Without a doubt, there is no such thing as the 'best' formula. The most appropriate Chinese herbal medicine will be based on your pattern diagnosis in TCM. Liu Wei Di Huang Wan is the most usual formula for the Kidney Yin Deficiency pattern that is clear during menopause. Your practitioner may be prescribing for pain symptoms by recommending Xiao Yao San, or possibly use Gui Pi Tang if you have insomnia and fatigue. The correct diagnosis has to be made in order to know that you have the right formula for your body.
Hormone therapy is where someone else provides you with the hormones estrogen and progesterone which are declining in your body. TCM uses an alternative method. My Chinese Medicine practitioner provides your body's self-regulating capacity for hormone replacement; herbal formulae, acupuncture and diet therapy to your specific pattern. This is how the body "changes" to the level of hormones in your body and tries to adapt to this new level, an external source of hormones is not provided. Both have proven positive effects, though you may choose to use them together as alternative therapies.
Most women experience some initial benefit within 4-6 weeks of regular treatment. Improvement tends to occur more rapidly with acupuncture (patients can sometimes feel a difference within 2-3 visits) while herbal formulas develop effects gradually. Complete stabilization and more profound pattern correction usually takes three to six months. Your practitioner will tailor the protocol as you go.
Traditional Chinese medicine herbal formulas have been used for hundreds of years with documented safety. A 2024 systematic review reported that western medication did not have added adverse reactions as a result of TCM intervention for menopause like syndrome. However herbal quality is critical—use only herbs that originate from good manufacturing practice (GMP) dealers with proven tests. Tong Ren Tang's products are prepared according to National GMP standards, as well as that of the EU GMP and Australian TGA. Also be sure to notify your health care practitioner if you are taking western medication to avoid adverse interactions.
Yes, there are several RCTs showing acupuncture can help. AIM Study reported a 9.64-point greater reduction in 24-hour hot flash score than control, and the ACUFLASH trial showed benefits persisted at 6-12 months follow-up period. A meta-analysis also confirms a significant decrease in hot flash number and severity. Some effect may be placebo, but benefits over nothing have been documented.
Numerous Chinese herbs have been traditionally used to support female hormon balances. Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) nourishes the blood and regulates menstruation while Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia) tonifies the Kidney Yin. Bai Shao (White Peony) smooths the Liver and conserves Yin. In Traditional Chinese Medicine these herbs are used as part of single remedies or balanced formulas, not as isolated supplements, for their synergistic combined effects. Defining formula interactions through formulaogy assessments is an essential factor in achieving both safety and efficacy.
Coverage depends on your insurance provider and plan. Major insurance carriers increasingly reimburse for acupuncture treatments, if provided by licensed practitioners. Coverage of herbal prescriptions is less common but increasing. Please check with your insurance carrier regarding the terms of your health plan for TCM or acupuncture benefits. Your practitioner can supply itemized receipts for reimbursement claims if appropriate.
Yes. Menopause early in the menopausal transition (perimenopause) is the most ideal window of intervention, as it is when symptoms first appear and when hormonal shifts are most flexible. Identification of imbalance and treatment of symptoms early on can help regulate the disruptions in estrogen, progesterone, and androgen levels which contribute to hot flashes, irregular periods, sleep disruption, psychological changes and other symptoms. Many practitioners consider the years of perimenopause to be the most appropriate time for hormonal treatment (symptoms being very responsive to simple modulation of estrogen levels).
