Detoxing in TCM: Micro-Nanoplastics as An Unlooked Stressor or Allergen

With the help of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can naturally detoxify your body, improve your overall health and reduce the effects of micro- nanoplastics on your health. It is important to detoxify your body on a regular basis to reduce allergies and stress levels and improve your health. 

Micro-nano plastics, which are tiny plastic particles, have become an increasingly common stressor or allergen to the environment and to human health since the first plastic material patented in 1862. 

As research continues to uncover thier detrimental effects, understanding how they are produced, their impact on health, and effective detox methods, including those from oriental medicinal perspectives, become paramount.

Studies over the past decades have shed light on the pervasive presence of micro-nanoplastics in various ecosystems, including oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe. These particles, often the result of the breakdown of larger plastic debris by friction or light, pose significant risks to human health. 

A series of recent research (2024) has linked micro-nanoplastics to a range of health issues, including inflammation, oxidative stress, disruption of hormonal balance, decrease of brain cognitive function and leaky gut. Moreover, their small size particles penetrate deep into tissues and organs, potentially causing long-term harm. 

Micro-nanoplastics are produced through various sources, including the degradation of larger plastic items such as bottles, bags, and packaging as well as the shedding of microfibers from textiles during washing. Additionally, industrial processes, vehicle tire, and even cosmetic products contribute to the release of these harmful particles into the environment and our health. 

To minimize exposure to micro-nanoplastics and safeguard health,       

               1. Reduce the use of single-use plastics and opt for                                                                          reusable alternatives.                                                                      

               2. Choose natural fibers.                                                                                   

               3. Filter tap water instead of plastic bottles.                                                   

               4. Avoid cosmetics wih microbeads. 

               5. Dietary changes to improve the body's ability, 
                   neutralize free radicals and support cellular health.

 Liver-Cleansing Foods such as cruciferous vegetables 

                     (broccoli, cabbage, and brussels sprouts), garlic, 

                      onions, leafy greens.

  Antioxidant-RIch Foods that are rich in Vit. C & E,                                                           and phytonutrients (flavonoids and carotenoids)                                                           such as berries, citrus fruits, and grapes,                                                                          spinach, kale and bell peppers

  Detoxifying Herbal Teas rich in antioxidants                                                                  and phytonutrients that support liver function                                                              and promote detox such as green tea,                                                                             dandelion tea, milk thirtle tea. 

              6. Mind-body practices and exercises like Qigong,                                                          Taichi, Meditation to help reduce stress levels                                                              and enhance circulation.                                                                                                                                           

Detoxifying in TCM

            1. Herbal remedies to cleanse the body of toxins                                                            such as hovenia, dandelion, cassia seed,                                                                        tumeric, mugwort, kudzu root, red ginseng, etc.

            2. Acupuncture

                    * Stimulate liver function by supporting liver detoxification                                                 and promote the flow of Qi      

                    * Enhance digestion by regulating the digestive tract                                                             and eliminating toxins. 

                    * Reduce stress by calming the nervous system 

           3. Other therapeutic methods in TCM Detox,

                    * Cupping Therapy 

                    * Moxibustion 

                    * Guasha 

TCM offers a comprehensive framework for detoxification to cleanse, heal, and achieve optimal health and vitality, addressing not only physical toxins but also imbalances in Qi, Yin, and Yang, and the five elements. 

Helen Hong, LAc, Dipl., Ch., PhD. @ Naum Acupuncture, NJ

1. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2300582121                                                           Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy

2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389424000943     Evidence of parental transfer of nanoplastics in pea (Pisum sativum) plants

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9026096/                                            Nanoplastics and Human Health: Hazard Identification and Biointerface