157 Questions
What is the primary function of the Spring points in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
To clear excess heat rapidly
What is the location of the Stream points in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Between the wrist and elbow or ankle and knee
What is the main action of the Yang meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
To reduce excess conditions
What is the characteristic of the Qi flow at the Sea points in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Slower and more directed inward
What is the primary use of the River points in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Treating cough and asthma
What is the characteristic of the Source points in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
They contain Original or Yuan-source Qi
What concept did Paracelsus believe in, which suggests that plants contain visible signs of their medicinal properties?
Doctrine of signatures
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the 'Excitation' tissue state?
Cloudy thinking
What is the term for the 'active ingredients' of a plant, which can have primary or secondary constituents?
Herbal constituents
Which of the following is a characteristic of the 'Damp-stagnation' tissue state?
Poor waste excretion
What is the term for the effect an herb and its constituents have on the body?
Herbal actions
Who is known for translating Latin herbal pharmacopeia to English, making it accessible to the poor?
Nicholas Culpeper
Which of the following herbal examples contains an indole alkaloid?
Passionflower
What is a potential risk of consuming alkaloids?
Toxicity
Which of the following effects is NOT associated with alkaloids?
Anti-inflammatory
Which herbal example is a source of a purine alkaloid?
Coffee
In which conditions are alkaloids contraindicated?
Pregnancy and lactation
What is the primary purpose of the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR)?
To estimate the amount of a nutrient that meets the requirements of half of all healthy people
Which of the following vitamins requires a prescription in Ontario if the dose exceeds 1mg?
Folic acid
What is the primary function of folic acid in the body?
To promote the growth of rapidly dividing cells
Which of the following diets is associated with a reduced risk of chronic disease, while providing adequate intakes of essential nutrients?
Mediterranean diet
What is the primary reason why vegetarians and vegans need to supplement with Vitamin B12?
Because it is only found in animal products
What is the primary consequence of a deficiency in folic acid during pregnancy?
The development of spina bifida in babies
What is the common characteristic of saponins that makes them 'soap-like'?
A steroid or triterpene fat-soluble base joined with a water-soluble sugar molecule
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT an adaptogen?
Cleavers
What is the primary mechanism of analgesic action of salicylate-containing herbs?
Sodium dependent channel inhibition
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT a cardiac stimulant?
Cleavers
What is the potential side effect of high doses of salicylate-containing herbs in individuals with zinc deficiency?
Hearing loss
What is the primary action of anti-inflammatory herbs in the body?
Modulating cytokines and interleukins
What is the primary function of the glycone unit in phenolic glycosides?
To make the aglycone more water soluble
What is the main consideration for herb-drug interactions in terms of the GI tract?
Changes in the way a substance is absorbed
What is the primary factor that determines the toxicity of a herb?
All of the above
What type of effects can occur between herbs and drugs?
Both additive and counteracting effects
What is the primary consideration for herbal ethics and safety in terms of cultural sensitivity?
Respecting the cultural traditions of the herb
What is the primary function of alkaloids in plants?
To protect against insects and pathogens
What is the purpose of Adequate Intake (AI) in nutrient measurement?
To determine the amount of a nutrient eaten by a group of healthy people to promote health
Which vitamin is necessary for rapidly dividing cells and fetal development during pregnancy?
Folic acid
What is the primary characteristic of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)?
It is the average daily dietary intake that meets the requirements of almost all healthy people
Which of the following nutrients requires a prescription in Ontario if the dose exceeds 1mg?
Folic acid
What is the purpose of the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL)?
To estimate the maximum amount of a nutrient that can be consumed without adverse effects
What is the role of cobalt in Vitamin B12?
It gives Vitamin B12 its red color
What is the primary characteristic of the Five Elements in TCM?
They represent the cyclical patterns of nature and their interrelationships
Which of the following is a characteristic of Yin in the context of TCM?
It is associated with the qualities of cold, dark, and feminine energy
What is the primary principle of the theory of Yin and Yang?
Yin and Yang are interdependent and constantly interacting principles
What is the significance of the Huang Di Nei Jing in TCM?
It is the earliest written record of TCM theory and practice
What is the main difference between Yin deficiency and Yang deficiency in TCM?
Yin deficiency is characterized by hot symptoms, while Yang deficiency is characterized by cold symptoms
What is the main principle of the Four Aspects of Yin and Yang?
Yin and Yang are cyclical and constantly transforming into one another
Which of the following herbal examples is classified as an astringent, with actions including binding, tightening, and drying?
Meadowsweet
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT a cholagogue or choleretic?
Milk Thistle
Which of the following systems is NOT supported by the herbal example Horsechestnut?
Gastrointestinal Tract
What is the main action of bitters on the body?
Stimulating the digestive system
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT classified as an organ-specific remedy for the Kidney?
Plantain
What is the main action of a hepatic alterative on the body?
Improving the function of the liver
What is the primary action of saponins in the body?
Immunomodulator
Which of the following herbal examples is a source of salicylates?
White Willow
What is the primary mechanism of action of anti-inflammatory herbs in the body?
Modulating cytokines and interleukins
What is the primary action of analgesic herbs in the body?
Soothing and relieving pain
Which of the following herbal examples is an adaptogen?
Ginseng
What is the potential risk of consuming high doses of salicylate-containing herbs?
Hearing loss
Which of the following is the primary mechanism of pain relief via nociceptor inhibition in myofascial trigger points?
Release of intrinsic hormones from the brain
What is the primary direction of Qi flow in the body according to the Meridian flow theory?
From greater yin to greater yang
Which of the following areas of the brain is involved in the neurophysiological effects of acupuncture?
All of the above
What is the primary location of the Yang meridians in the body?
Back and upper body
What is the primary characteristic of the Yang areas of the body?
Light, warm, and active
What is the primary use of the fingertips or corner of the nailbed in acupuncture?
Elimination of pathogenic factors
What is the primary goal of the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI)?
To prevent nutrient deficiencies and lower the risk of chronic disease
What is the potential consequence of consuming high amounts of trans fats?
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol
What is the importance of socialization while eating?
It promotes mindful eating and improves overall health
What is the estimated percentage of people globally who are malnourished or at high risk?
20-50%
What is the purpose of implementing proper nutrient plans?
To support patient nutritional status
What is the purpose of creating public awareness about the costs of chronic illness?
To reduce the economic burden on society
What is the characteristic of the tongue in an individual experiencing nervous exhaustion and poor memory?
Dry and narrow
When is the ideal time to harvest aerial parts of a plant?
Spring to late summer, when the herb flowers
What is the recommended storage method for dried roots?
In an air-tight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years
What is the characteristic of the pulse in an individual experiencing tension and anxiety?
Wiry and tense
When is the ideal time to harvest roots in herbalism?
Autumn, when the nutrients settle downwards
What is the processing method for bark in herbalism?
Strip the bark with a knife, then cut into pieces and dry
What is the primary function of Pantothenic Acid in the body?
Energy Releasing
What is the role of Insulin in glucose metabolism during resting state?
Required for glucose to bind to cell
What is the characteristic of LDL lipoprotein?
Fat is more than protein coat
What is the function of Apolipoproteins in lipoprotein metabolism?
Act as structural role and guide lipoprotein formation
What is the result of imbalance of glucose in the body?
DM, IHD, HTSN, Renal dysfunction / failure
What is the role of microbiome in the body?
Regulate inflammation, Cancer prevention, Weight flux
What is the primary function of Biotin in the body?
Energy Releasing
What is the characteristic of HDL lipoprotein?
Protein coat is more than fat
What is the role of Copper in the body?
Blood building, hemoglobin synthesis
What is the primary function of Proteins in the body?
Growth, development, Hematopoietic function
What is the purpose of a liniment?
To apply herbal constituents directly to the skin for muscular use
What is the main difference between a decoction and an infusion?
Decoction is used for woody herbs, while infusion is used for non-woody herbs
What is the purpose of a poultice?
To apply fresh, dried, or powdered herbs directly to the body for skin irritation or muscle pain
What is the characteristic of a glycerite?
It is a type of tincture that uses glycerine as a solvent
What is the purpose of a compress?
To apply an infusion or decoction to the skin with a soaked cloth
What is the characteristic of a salve?
It is a type of solid product that uses beeswax or a thickener to apply herbal constituents to the skin
What is the characteristic of the tongue in an individual with Yin deficiency?
Absence of coating, pale
What is the emotional response associated with the Metal element in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Sad, grief
What is the characteristic of the pulse in an individual with Yin deficiency?
Deep, slow, weak
What is the direction associated with the Metal element in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Contract
What is the secretion associated with the Spleen and Stomach organs in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Saliva
What is the flavor associated with the Spleen and Stomach organs in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Sweet
What is the primary role of B3 in the body?
Converting tryptophan into B3
What is the primary function of zinc in the body?
Required for fertility and sperm production
What is the significance of alkalization of corn?
Releases niacin
What is the primary dietary source of selenium?
Brazil nuts
What is the result of a severe niacin deficiency?
Weakness, blurred vision, and scaly dermatitis
What is the primary function of multiple amino acids in the body?
Synthesizing protein structures
What is the primary effect of tannins on the absorption of other constituents?
Reduce absorption via precipitation
Which of the following is a characteristic of mucilage?
Forms a gel-like consistency when combined with water
What is the primary action of demulcents?
Soothe and protect internal tissue
Which of the following herbs is an example of a vulnerary?
Comfrey
What is the primary difference between water-based and fat-based solutions?
The constituents that are extracted
Which of the following is a characteristic of emollients?
Forms a protective barrier on the skin
What is the primary mechanism of action of Coumarins?
Anti-inflammatory
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Flavonoids?
Antimicrobial
What is the primary function of Mucilage in Bulking Laxatives?
To pull water into the colon and soften stool
What is the primary consequence of a lack of diversity in the gut microbiome?
All of the above
What is the primary function of prebiotics in the gut?
To feed good bacteria and promote their growth
Which of the following herbal examples is classified as a Soothing Expectorant?
Plantain
What is the main action of Allantoin in wound healing?
To promote granular tissue laydown and form scab/eschar
What is the primary characteristic of a food intolerance?
A non-immune mediated response to a specific food
What is the characteristic of the action of Flavonoids as antioxidant?
They act as H+ donors allowing resonance stabilization
What is the primary goal of the low-FODMAP diet?
To exclude FODMAP foods for 6-8 weeks and then reintroduce them
What is the primary mechanism of action of anti-inflammatory herbs in the body?
Inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines
What is the primary characteristic of a dysbiotic gut microbiome?
An imbalance of good and bad bacteria
What is the primary benefit of incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into the diet?
All of the above
What is the primary mechanism of action of probiotics in the gut?
Reducing inflammation and promoting gut healing
What is the primary characteristic of a food allergy?
An immediate allergic response to a specific food
What is the primary benefit of incorporating prebiotic-rich foods into the diet?
All of the above
What is the primary function of the Shen in the body?
To provide consciousness and mental activities
What is the role of the Spleen in blood metabolism?
To make blood
What is the characteristic of Jin fluids in the body?
Clear and watery, controlled by the Lung
What is the role of the Liver in blood metabolism?
To store blood Qi
What is the primary function of fluid metabolism in the body?
To separate and purify fluids
What is the relationship between blood and Qi in the body?
Blood is the mother of Qi, providing nutritional substance and Qi is the commander of blood, providing movement
Which of the following nutrients is essential for activation of Vitamin E?
Tryptophan
What is the primary function of Tryptophan in the body?
Converting to B3
Which of the following foods is a rich source of zinc?
Brazil nuts
What is the primary function of Niacin in the body?
Enhancing glucose metabolism
Which of the following symptoms is associated with a severe deficiency of Niacin?
All of the above
What is the primary function of multiple amino acids in the body?
Synthesizing protein structures
What is the primary characteristic of a Full-Cold pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
an absence of thirst and cold limbs
What is the primary function of Wei Qi in the human body?
to protect from exterior attacks
What is the primary characteristic of a Qi deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
a pale face and weak voice
What is the primary difference between Empty Qi and Empty Yang in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Empty Qi has cold limbs, while Empty Yang has no thirst
What is the primary characteristic of a Floating pulse in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
it is rapid and superficial
What is the primary function of Qi Hua in the human body?
to function the organs
What is the primary action of flavonoids in reducing oxidative damage?
Acting as H+ donors, allowing resonance stabilization
What is the primary mechanism of coumarins' anti-inflammatory effect?
Modifying edema and promoting anti-inflammatory effects
What is the primary action of bulking laxatives in the colon?
Pulling water into the colon to soften and bulk stool
What is the primary effect of soothing expectorants on lung tissue?
Relaxing bronchial tissues and loosening mucous
What is the primary characteristic of allantoin's action?
Promoting granular tissue laydown to form scab/eschar sooner
What is the primary mechanism of flavonoids' antioxidant effect?
Reducing oxidative damage by transferring electrons
What is the primary action of saponins on the body?
Immunomodulator
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT a source of saponins?
Cayenne
What is the primary mechanism of action of salicylates in the body?
Inhibiting sodium-dependent channels
Which of the following herbal examples is classified as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-pyretic/febrifuge?
Cayenne
What is the primary characteristic of saponins that makes them 'soap-like'?
Combination of a steroid or triterpene fat-soluble base with a water-soluble sugar molecule
Which of the following herbal examples is NOT an adaptogen?
Cayenne
Study Notes
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
- Acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies date back 2200 years
- Shang Dynasty: archeological findings of acupuncture and bones with medical problems engraved
- Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic): earliest written record of TCM
Five Elements and Yin-Yang Theory
- Five Elements (Xu Wing): wood, fire, earth, metal, and water
- Book of Changes (Yi Jing): earliest reference to yin and yang
- Yin-Yang Theory: opposites, interdependent, mutually consuming, and inter-transforming
- Four aspects of yin-yang: opposition, interdependence, mutual consumption, and inter-transformation
Yin and Yang Qualities
- Yin: material, nourishing, contracting, descending, cooling, and feminine
- Yang: immaterial, energizing, expanding, rising, warming, and masculine
Channel Theory
- Channel theory: meridians, source points, and river points
- Source points: larger points in TCM that contain Original or Yuan-source Qi
- River points: wider and deeper points that treat cough, asthma, and respiratory conditions
Herbal Constituents and Actions
- Herbal constituents: active ingredients, such as carbohydrates, lipids, phenolics, and terpenoids
- Herbal actions: adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, stimulating expectorant, and immunomodulator
- Examples of herbal constituents: saponins, alkaloids, and salicylates
Herbal Examples and Classifications
- Bitters: digestive stimulant, many constituents, such as hepatics, alteratives, and cholagogues
- Astringents: binding, tightening, and drying, such as yarrow and witch hazel
- Saponins: soap-like, based on a steroid or triterpene fat-soluble base, such as wild yam and licorice
Nutrition and Dietary Recommendations
- Vitamins: necessary for rapidly dividing cells, growth, and NS development
- Minerals: necessary for maintaining bone and connective tissue health, electrolyte balance, and muscle and nerve action potential
- Macronutrients: carbohydrate, protein, and lipid
- Micronutrients: iron, copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium
Measurements and Dietary Allowances
-
Estimated Average Requirement (EAR): calculated by the amount of a nutrient that meets the requirements of half of all healthy people
-
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA): average daily dietary intake that meets the requirements of almost all healthy people
-
Adequate Intake (AI): determines the amount of a nutrient eaten by a group of healthy people
-
Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): maximum amount of a nutrient that can be consumed
-
Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR): percentage range of macronutrient intake associated with reduced risk of chronic disease### Herbal Medicine and TCM
-
Nervous Exhaustion: symptoms include poor memory, quivering tongue, and tense muscles; treated with relaxants, antispasmodics, nervines, aromatics, and diaphoretics.
Parts of Herbal Plants
- Aerial Parts: harvested during spring to late summer when in flower; processed by drying on racks or hanging in bunches.
- Roots: harvested in autumn when nutrients settle; processed by washing, peeling, cutting, and drying.
- Bark: harvested in early spring or autumn; processed by stripping with a knife, cutting into pieces, and drying.
Acupuncture
- Pain Management: via opioid peptides (gait theory) and intrinsic hormone release; muscle length changes and neurological inhibition.
- Neurophysiological Effects: mediated by various brain areas (fMRI studies); used for neurological conditions.
Meridian Flow Theory
- Qi (Energy) Flow: interconnectedness of body and organs; flows from greater yin to greater yang areas.
- Yin and Yang Areas: Front/Lower body/Leg = yin; Back/Upper body/Arms = yang; transition areas include elbows, wrists, and head.
Herbal Preparations
- Tincture: herbs steeped in alcohol or vinegar; benefits include fast processing and high concentration.
- Liniment: alcohol/vinegar tincture applied directly to skin for muscular use.
- Glycerite: herbs steeped in glycerine; shelf life of 1 year.
- Infusion: water-based preparation for non-woody herbs.
- Decoction: woody herbs simmered in water; requires more heat and time.
- Inhalation: infusion or decoction inhaled as steam.
- Bath: strong infusion or decoction added to bath water.
- Poultice: fresh, dried, or powdered herb applied directly to the body.
- Salve: beeswax or thickener added to oil to produce a solid product.
5 Elements and Corresponding TCM Organs
- Metal: lungs, LI; direction: contract; season: winter; secretion: mucous; emotions: sad, grief; flavor: pungent.
Nutrire and Health
- Diet Composition: counts calories, nurtures, and influences nutrition.
- Accessibility: considers cost, cultural, and social preferences when prescribing nutrition support.
- Regulations: includes sugar tax.
- Daily Food: recommends vegetables, fruits, whole grains, proteins, and low-fat milk.
- Daily Physical Activity: recommended for health.
- Malnutrition: affects 20-50% of people globally; leads to weight management issues, nutrient deficiencies, and poor immunity.
Fecal Assays and Nutrition
- Fecal Assays: target tryptase, eosinophile cationic protein, and calprotectin to evaluate gut health.
- Gluten-Free Diets: used for specific conditions.
- DRI (Dietary Reference Intake): sets standards for vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to prevent deficiencies and chronic diseases.
Tongue Analysis
- Tongue Coating: depends on accumulation of dampness; pale indicates deficiency.
- Pulse: deep, slow, and weak indicates Yin deficiency; fast, thin, and weak indicates Yang deficiency.### Herbal Blood Cleansers
- Burdock, Yellow Dock, Cleavers, Dandelion root, Stinging Nettle tops, and Red Clover are examples of herbs that cleanse the lymphatic, GI, urinary, and skin systems.
Saponins
- Saponins are "soap-like" compounds with a steroid or triterpene fat-soluble base joined with a water-soluble sugar molecule.
- Actions: adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, stimulating expectorant, anticatarrhal, immunomodulator, diuretic, anti-spasmodic, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, emmenagogue, cardiac stimulant, and hormone modulating.
- Herbal examples: Wild Yam, Licorice, and Ginseng.
Salicylates
- Salicylates are a group of simple phenolics that ease pain and reduce inflammation.
- Actions: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-pyretic/febrifuge, and anti-septic.
- Safety: high doses can be toxic (hearing loss in zinc-deficient people), salicylism, and avoid if allergic.
- Herbal examples: Cayenne, California Poppy, Cramp Bark, and White Willow.
Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Examples
- Modulate inflammation, supporting and balancing cytokines, interleukins, prostaglandins, and leukotriene.
- Herbal examples: Cayenne, California Poppy, Cramp Bark, and White Willow.
Nutrient-Related Information
- Tryptophan (protein) converts to B3.
- Alkalization of corn releases Niacin (helps with global deficiencies).
- The 4 Ds of Niacin Deficiency are: Dermatitis, Diarrhea, Dementia, and Death.
- Niacin is essential for activation of Vitamin E and glucose metabolism.
- Dietary sources: Brazil nuts, and grapes.
Zinc-Related Information
- Zinc is essential for fertility, sperm production, and building a healthy skin barrier.
- Zinc deficiency causes high bad cholesterol and Ischemic Heart Disease.
- Deficiency symptoms: weakness, blurred vision, and scaly dermatitis.
- Used topically and internally to promote granular tissue laydown to form scab/eschar sooner.
Wound Healing Herbal Examples
- Promote granular tissue laydown to form scab/eschar sooner.
- Herbal examples: Calendula, Comfrey, and Plantain.
Bulking Laxatives
- Mucilage pulls water into the colon to soften and bulk stool.
- Herbal examples: Aloe gel, Psyllium seed, Flax seed, and Marshmallow root.
Soothing Expectorant
- Removes excess mucous from lungs and soothes irritated lung tissue.
- Helps dry sticky mucous that is difficult to cough up.
- Relaxes bronchial tissues and loosens mucous.
- Herbal examples: Plantain, Coltsfoot, and Mullein.
Coumarins
- Glycosidic form, vanilla odor; derivatives of hydroxycoumarins, furanocoumarins, and pyranocoumarins.
- Actions: anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and edema-modifiers.
- Safety: anticoagulant effect only after fermentation, photosensitivity rashes.
- Herbal examples: Horse chestnut and Red clover.
Flavonoids
- "Biological response modifiers", carbon skeleton with 2 substituted benzene rings.
- Found in leaves, fruits, and flowers.
- Actions: antioxidant, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, vascular tonic, liver-protection, anti-allergic, and anti-viral/cancer.
- Antioxidant: redox regulators (transfer of electrons), reducing oxidative damage caused by ROS.
Explore the different types of acupuncture points, including Spring, Stream, and River points. Learn about their locations, characteristics, and uses in traditional Chinese medicine. Discover how these points can help alleviate various health issues.
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