Why the Lotus Seminars?

“What I appreciate the most is the breadth of experience Dr. Chen shared in reference to each of the formula - some of the uses and combinations are new to me and will be helpful in my clinical practice.”   L.C.

“I learned many new connections between TCM & Western medication which will help me to mesh both together. Excellent seminars.”  M.B.

CASE STUDY ON TRAUMANEX

This was a letter written to us in which we would like to share with you regarding the successful use of Traumanex, an herbal formula based on Zheng Gu Zi Jin Dan (Purple and Gold Pill for Righteous Bones), on animals. We thought it would be helpful and interesting for you to know how well blood moving herbs can work.

October, 2007

Dear Dr. Chen,

I am an acupuncturist whose practice is mainly race horses. In late July, my own race filly suffered multiple chips and a condular fracture of her left front leg. The chips were removed and the fracture had screws inserted. I immediately put her on Homeopathic Symphytum 30c and Bellis Per 30c as well as one bottle of Traumanex followed by 8 bottles of Osteo 8. They expected that she would be stall bound for 90 days followed by a lengthy recovery. I had her x-rayed at 7 weeks and there was no sign of the fracture at all. She was able to start hand walking.

At 9 weeks I had digital x-rays taken just to be sure and not only is there no sign of the fracture, but the area that the bone chips were removed were nearly filled in with healthy bone as well. She never had any heat or swelling of her leg either. She could probably go back to being ridden, but I am giving her more time off just to be sure. Her next career is as a show horse as I don’t want to take a chance racing her again.

The veterinarians are amazed at her speedy recovery and most are interested in trying the herbs for their patients with fractures. The Homeopathic remedies may be a little too far out for most of them, but at least they are opening up to the herbs.

I thought you’d like to know of this case. By the way, I gave her 1 TB of herbs twice daily mixed into her feed. Thank you for all your great formulas.

Sincerely,

J.W.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

• Sports injuries including external injuries, traumas, bruises, contusions, sprains, etc.
• Broken bones or fractures with severe pain, inflammation and swelling
• Post-surgical recovery

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

• Antispasmodic function to relieve muscle spasms and cramps (i), (ii), (iii), (v), vii
• Anti-inflammatory actions to reduce inflammation and swelling (ii), (iii),(ix)
• Stops bleeding and traumatic hemorrhage (ii), (ix)

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

• Invigorates the blood
• Removes blood stagnation
• Relieves pain
• Helps to regenerate bones and soft tissues

DOSAGE

Take 5 to 6 capsules every six hours at the initial stage of injury. After the condition stabilizes, reduce the dosage to 3 to 4 capsules three times daily. For maximum effectiveness, take the herbs on an empty stomach with warm water. The herbs can be taken after meals if stomach discomfort should occur.

INGREDIENTS

Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba)
Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei)
Dang Gui Wei (Extremitas Radicis Angelicae Sinensis)
Er Cha (Catechu)
Fu Ling (Poria)
Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae)
Hong Hua (Flos Carthami)
Mo Yao (Myrrha)
Mu Dan Pi (Cortex Moutan)
Mu Xiang (Radix Aucklandiae)
Ru Xiang (Gummi Olibanum)
Su Mu (Lignum Sappan)
Tao Ren (Semen Persicae)
Yan Hu Suo (Rhizoma Corydalis)

FORMULA EXPLANATION

Traumanex is formulated for both internal and external injuries, such as broken bones, bone fractures, sports injuries, bruises, contusions, sprains, etc. It can be used to enhance recovery and prevent scarring. This is an excellent formula to activate qi and blood circulation, remove qi and blood stagnation, relieve pain, and facilitate healing by regenerating bone and soft tissues.

Yan Hu Suo (Rhizoma Corydalis) and Su Mu (Lignum Sappan) dispel blood stasis and alleviate pain. Er Cha (Catechu) reduces swelling, drains dampness and absorbs seepage from sores or wounds. Ru Xiang (Gummi Olibanum), Mo Yao (Myrrha), Mu Xiang (Radix Aucklandiae), Dang Gui Wei (Extremitas Radicis Angelicae Sinensis), Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) and Tao Ren (Semen Persicae) promote the healing of wounds and relieve pain by invigorating blood circulation. Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Mu Dan Pi (Cortex Moutan) reduce inflammation by clearing heat. Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) has strong analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects. Fu Ling (Poria) tonifies the Spleen and indirectly promotes the regeneration of muscles. Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) relaxes the tendons and muscles and harmonizes the formula.

NUTRITION

• Advise patients to eat half of a fresh pineapple daily. Pineapple is rich in bromelain and will reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Patients with broken bones or fractures should consume an adequate amount of calcium during recovery.
• Patients with broken bones or fractures should avoid foods with preservatives because phosphorus in preservatives can lead to bone loss.
• Patients are advised to avoid cold food and drinks, as cold will cause more stagnation. They should also avoid spicy food to prevent aggravating the inflammatory condition.

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

• Avoid exercise with high risk of injury, especially during the recovery phase.
• For external injury with open wounds, be sure to clean the affected area thoroughly to prevent infection.
• Vitamin E oil can be applied to the wounds to minimize scarring. However, vitamin E oil should be applied only after the open wounds have closed/healed.

CLINICAL NOTES

• Traumanex is an herbal formula originally used by Kung-Fu masters and monks in the Shaolin temple to treat various internal and external injuries. It has excellent functions to relieve pain, treat soft tissue injuries, facilitate healing of broken bones or bone fractures.
• There are three excellent formulas for post-surgical recovery. Traumanex should be taken after the surgery for 5 to 10 days to facilitate the immediate healing of wounds. Continue herbal treatment with Flex (MLT) and Osteo 8 for one month to facilitate healing and recovery of soft tissues and bones, respectively.
• The following is a folk remedy to treat acute back pain from sprain and strain. Crack open 2 crabs (ocean) with a wooden stick (do not use a knife or any metal instruments) and put them into a clay pot with enough vodka or whiskey to cover both crabs. Place the clay pot into another bigger pot with water and steam it for one hour. Serve the crab meat along with the soup.

CAUTIONS

• This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.
• Do not use this formula if the patient has internal hemorrhage. Traumanex has many herbs that activate blood circulation and may delay coagulation.
• Patients who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies, such as Coumadin (Warfarin), should use this formula with caution as there may be a slightly higher risk of bleeding and bruising.
• This formula may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be minimized by taking the herbs with food or decreasing the dosage.
• This formula is not designed for long-term use. It should be used only during the acute phases of injuries, and discontinued when the desired effects are achieved.

ACUPUNCTURE POINTS

Traditional Points

• Ah shi points.

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan

• The treatment protocol is different for each case, depending on the location and severity of injuries.
• For additional information on the Balance Method, please refer to Twelve and Twelve in Acupuncture and Twenty-Four More in Acupuncture by Dr. Richard Tan.

Ear Points

• Knee injuries: Knees, Adrenal Gland, and Pituitary Gland.
• Post-operative pain: Needle the reflective location of the surgery, Subcortex, Shenmen, and Lung. Needle twice a day with strong stimulation and leave the needles in for one to two hours. These points are more effective to relieve sharp pain associated with surgery and not as well for distension and pain as the result of abdominal surgery.
• Post-operative flatulence: Select and needle the sensitive points along the Large Intestine and Small Intestine, Stomach, Sympathetic, and Spleen. Strongly stimulate for one to two hours to help alleviate distension and promote passage of gas.

Auricular Acupuncture by Dr. Li-Chun Huang

• Acute sprain and contusion: Corresponding points (to the area of injury).
  • For pain, add Large Auricular Nerve, and Lesser Occipital Nerve. Bleed Ear Apex.
  • For tranquillizing the mind, add Shenmen.
• For additional information on the location and explanation of these points, please refer to Auricular Treatment: Formulae and Prescriptions by Dr. Li-Chun Huang.

MODERN RESEARCH

Traumanex is formulated specifically to treat both internal and external injuries, such as broken bones, bone fractures, sports injuries, bruises, contusions, sprains, etc. Pharmacologically, herbs in this formula have an antispasmodic function to relieve muscle spasms and cramps, anti-inflammatory action to reduce inflammation and swelling, and hemostatic effect to stop bleeding.

Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) and Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) are commonly combined to relieve muscle spasms and cramps. Clinically, they may be used for musculoskeletal spasms and leg cramps associated with external or sports injuries. They may also be used for smooth-muscle cramps, such as abdominal and intestinal cramps or dysmenorrhea. (i) Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) and Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) have strong antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects as confirmed by modern research. Furthermore, Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) and Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) are effective in treating both skeletal and smooth muscles. (ii) , (iii)  

For treatment of musculoskeletal disorders using Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) and Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae), 30 out of 42 patients reported relief of trigeminal pain;(iv) 11 out of 11 patients experienced reduction of muscle spasm and twitching in the facial region; (v) and out of 33 elderly patients with pain in the lower back and legs, 12 patients reported significant improvement, 16 reported moderate improvement, 4 reported slight improvement and 1 reported no effect. (vi)

For treatment of smooth muscle disorders, the combination of Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) and Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae) relieved abdominal pain and cramps due to intestinal parasites in 11 out of 11 patients; (vii) and in 185 patients with epigastric and abdominal pain, 139 patients reported significant improvement, 41 reported moderate improvement, and 5 reported no effect. (viii) Lastly, Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) has tranquilizing and analgesic effects to relieve pain. (ix)

Tao Ren (Semen Persicae), Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) and Dang Gui Wei (Extremitas Radicis Angelicae Sinensis) have excellent functions to invigorate blood circulation and facilitate healing. It was demonstrated in a clinical study with 775 cases of swelling and subcutaneous hemorrhage due to acute sprains that Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) can effectively improve and/or cure the condition within 3 to 5 days.(ii),(ix)

Su Mu (Lignum Sappan), Ru Xiang (Gummi Olibanum) and Mo Yao (Myrrha) are commonly used together to treat trauma-induced pain and swelling.(ii),(ix)

Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) has a wide range of effects on the treatment of sports or traumatic injuries. Taken internally, it shortens coagulation time or stops bleeding. Used externally (as powder or paste), it treats traumatic hemorrhage with no adverse reactions or side effects. (ii),ix

PHARMACEUTICAL DRUGS & CHINESE MEDICINE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Western Medicine Approach: Trauma injuries are generally treated with drugs that reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Two classes of drugs commonly used for treatment include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAID) and opioid analgesics. NSAIDs [such as Motrin (Ibuprofen) and Voltaren (Diclofenac)] are generally used for mild to moderate pain, and are most effective to reduce inflammation and swelling. Though effective, they may cause such serious side effects as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, tinnitus, blurred vision, dizziness and headache. Furthermore, newer NSAIDs, also known as Cox-2 inhibitors [such as Celebrex (Celecoxib)], are associated with significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke. Opioid analgesics [such as Vicodin (APAP/Hydrocodone) and morphine] are usually used for severe to excruciating pain. While they may be the most potent agents for pain, they also have the most serious risks and side effects, including but not limited to dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, upset stomach, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, rash, difficult urination, and respiratory depression resulting in difficult breathing. Furthermore, long-term use of these drugs leads to tolerance and addiction. In brief, it is important to remember that while drugs offer reliable and potent symptomatic pain relief, they should be used only if and when needed. Frequent use and abuse leads to unnecessary side effects and complications.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach: Treatment of trauma injuries is focused on relieving acute symptoms and promoting long-term recovery. Symptoms of pain, inflammation and swelling are usually treated with herbs that activate qi and blood circulation, as these herbs have excellent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, herbs that activate qi and blood also promote blood circulation to the affected area to facilitate and speed up the recovery process. In other words, by relieving symptoms and promoting recovery, use of herbs achieves both immediate and prolonged benefits.

CASE STUDIES

C.K., a 12-year-old boy, presented with a painful and swollen elbow, with bruises due to a go-cart accident in which he was pinned under the roll bar. The patient was asked to take three capsules of Traumanex, four times a day, with food to avoid stomach upset. The accident happened on Thursday; the boy was able to return to school on Monday with 100% recovery, and experienced no stomach upset. A topical herbal tincture Po Sum On, along with acupuncture, massage and homeopathic remedies, were all part of the treatment regimen.

M.C., Sarasota, Florida

D.D., a 41-year-old nurse, presented with a work-related injury. She had severe back pain that was the result of a fall from lifting a patient. She said she heard a popping sound in her back when she fell. MRI confirmed her diagnosis of the herniated lumbar disc. She was 9 weeks post-injury and had scheduled for steroid epidurals. She refused injections and came to our clinic for ‘safe and non-invasive care.’ Her blood pressure was 140/80 mmHg and the heart rate was 80 beats per minute. TCM diagnoses included qi and blood stagnation and soft tissue damage. Back Support (Acute), Flex (SC) and Traumanex were prescribed at 3 capsules each three times a day. After the herbs, the patient was able to reduce Vicodin (APAP/Hydrocodone) use from 2 to 0.5 tablets per day, and none at all on some days. She had increased blood pressure from stress over the injury, which was up to 170/110 mmHg. After the herbs and massage, the blood pressure came down to normal and is staying down. She had received no additional physical therapy. She did remarkably well in a short period of time. 

M.H., West Palm Beach, Florida

An 18-year-old male chef presented with neck and shoulder pain from a skateboard fall. X-rays revealed a diminished cervical curvature as well as a hypokyphotic curve at T2 to T3. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as a cervical sprain/strain. The patient was treated with Neck & Shoulder (Acute) and Traumanex, which produced a reduction in pain. The patient found it necessary to take the herbs with food to avoid stomach discomfort.

M.H., Jupiter, Florida

J.M., a 36-year-old female massage therapist presented with pain from a recent automobile accident (second accident in 6 months). She exhibited neck, back, arm and leg pain. Airbags bent her right thumb. Her blood pressure was 120/70 mmHg and her heart rate was 72 beats per minute. X-rays showed herniation and soft tissue damage. She also complained of muscle spasms, hot sensation on trigger points, inability to move the right thumb and the range of motion for the neck and trunk were both decreased. Traumanex, Neck & Shoulder (Acute) and Back Support (Acute) were all prescribed at 2 capsules each three times daily. J.M. responded quickly to these formulas and acupuncture treatments. Pain levels were reduced by half in a short period of time.

M.H., West Palm Beach, Florida

L.P., a 77-year-old female, presented with severe pain in the left wrist and right rib cage after a fall. She had numbness of the wrist and palm where she landed on the cement. The patient showed bruises on the right eye. The right wrist was painful to light movement and palpation. There were tender points on the right subclavicular area. There were no visible contusions on the right rib cage. The diagnoses were qi and blood stagnation with soft tissue damage. Traumanex, Neck & Shoulder (Acute) and Flex (SC) were prescribed at 2 capsules of each formula three times daily. The patient reported daily lowering of pain levels. Numbness was reduced to a light tingling after two days. She reported continuous and steady improvement each day. She was instructed to reduce the dosage to 2 capsules of each formula twice a day when the pain subsided. After the swelling was reduced, the patient was referred to a chiropractor for cervical and occiput adjustments.

M. H., West Palm Beach, Florida

This article was taken out of the Clinical Manual of Oriental Medicine. To order a copy, click here.

REFERENCES
(i) Bensky, D. et al. Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas and Strategies. Eastland Press. 1990
(ii) Bensky, D. et al. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica. Eastland Press. 1993
(iii) Tan, H. et al. Chemical components of decoction of radix paeoniae and radix glycyrrhizae. China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica. 20(9):550-1,576, Sept. 1995
(iv) Huang, DD. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 11:9. 1983
(v) Luo, DP. Hunan Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 2:7. 1989
(vi) Chen, Hong. Yunnan Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 4:15. 1990
(vii) Zhang, RB. Jiangxu Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 5:38-39. 1966
(viii) You, JH. Guanxi Journal of Chinese Herbology. 5:5-6. 1987
(ix) Yeung, HC. Handbook of Chinese Herbs. Institute of Chinese Medicine. 1996

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

John K. Chen, L.Ac., Pharm.D., O.M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. John Chen is a recognized authority in both western pharmacology and Chinese Herbal Medicine.  He teaches at the USC School of Pharmacy, Emperor’s College, Yo San University of TCM, OCOM, Five Branches, AOMA and ACTCM. Dr. Chen’s most recent published work is Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology (2003, AOM Press) and Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications (2008, AOM Press) for which he was lead author.

Li-Chun Huang, L.Ac.

Dr. Li-Chun Huang is the founder and current dean of Auricular Medicine International Research and Training Center. Her expertise in the field arises from her continuous research, and immense clinical and instructional experience. Dr. Huang has conducted over 150 seminars in auricular therapy worldwide, including the International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Class sponsored by the World Health Organization (W.H.O).  Dr. Huang’s years of training and devotion to research have enabled her to publish numerous texts on auricular acupuncture, including Auricular Treatment Formulae and Prescriptions, Auricular Medicine, and others.

Richard Tan, O.M.D., L.Ac.

Dr. Richard Tan is a leading authority in acupuncture, herbs, feng shui and qi cultivation. His skills represent the culmination of years of study in the disciplines of Zang-Fu, Five Element and Channel Theory. Dr. Tan authored Twelve and Twelve in Acupuncture, Twenty-Four More in Acupuncture and Dr. Tan’s Strategy of Twelve Magical Points, among others.

Alex Chen, L.Ac., O.M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. Alex Chen is a master of herbs, qi gong and tui-na. He has given numerous seminars and has taught at South Baylo University, YuinUniversity and Royal University of America. His love for Oriental Medicine is evident through his life-long devotion to the profession, and reflected by the passion and dedication he embodies, and the inspiration he provides to his children to pursue the same career path.

To learn more from these authors, following are the classes they have with Lotus Institute this year. All classes are approved for 8 CEUs/PDAs by the California Acupuncture Board and NCCAOM.

CLASSES BY THE AUTHORS

Alex Chen, L.Ac., O.M.D., Ph.D.

Practical Qi Gong for Optimal Health

• 12/7/08 Los Angeles, CA

John K. Chen, L.Ac., Pharm.D., O.M.D., Ph.D.

Meet the Masters: The Classic Formulas They Crafted and Their Contemporary Connections

• 8/24/08 Portland, OR
• 12/6/08 Los Angeles, CA

Richard Tan, O.M.D., L.Ac.

Master Tung’s Points Dr. Tan’s Applications

• 8/23/08 Portland, OR

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