Some CAM approaches for Anxiety

 example of a complete integrative Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) treatment protocol for stress and anxiety, blending chiropractic, Ayurvedic, acupuncture (meridian-based), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbology, homeopathy, and naturopathy:

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Patient Profile

• Name: Jane Doe

• Age: 38

• Main Complaint: Chronic stress, mild to moderate anxiety

• Secondary Complaints: Poor sleep, tension headaches, digestive irregularity

• Duration: 1+ year

• Goal: Reduce anxiety, improve sleep, restore balance

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1. Chiropractic Treatment Protocol

• Frequency: 2x/week for 4 weeks, then taper to 1x/week for maintenance

• Focus: Upper cervical (C1–C3), thoracic spine (T4–T6), sacral release

• Techniques:

  • Diversified adjustment

  • Sacro-occipital technique (SOT)

  • Craniosacral therapy for parasympathetic activation

• Adjuncts:

  • Breathing coaching during visits

  • Postural rehab with wall angels, deep squats, diaphragmatic breathing

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2. Ayurvedic Protocol

• Dosha Imbalance: Predominantly Vata (irregular sleep, anxiety, cold hands/feet)

• Diet:

  • Warm, moist, grounding foods (e.g., khichari, ghee, root vegetables)

  • Avoid caffeine, dry snacks, and raw foods

• Daily Routine:

  • Abhyanga (self-oil massage with sesame oil) in the morning

  • Nasya oil drops before bed

• Herbs:

  • Ashwagandha (adaptogen)

  • Brahmi (mental clarity, calming)

  • Shankhpushpi (nervine tonic)

• Yoga: Slow-paced Hatha with alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

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3. Acupuncture with Meridian Focus

• Frequency: 2 sessions/week for 4 weeks, then 1/week for 4 weeks

• Points Used (customized):

  • Yintang (between eyebrows) – calm mind

  • HT7 (Shenmen) – heart spirit

  • PC6 – regulates the chest, calms the spirit

  • KD1, SP6 – grounding

  • GV20 – clear mind, uplift

• Method: Manual needle stimulation, optional electroacupuncture if fatigue is present

• Moxa: On Ren-6 and ST36 to nourish Qi

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4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Pattern Diagnosis

• Pattern: Liver Qi stagnation with Heart Yin deficiency

• Herbal Formula:

  • Xiao Yao San (Free & Easy Wanderer) – for Liver Qi

  • Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan – nourishes Heart and Kidney Yin

• Dietary Support:

  • Avoid alcohol, fried food

  • Add mung beans, lotus seeds, cooked greens, and red dates

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5. Herbology (Western)

• Tinctures:

  • Skullcap – anxiolytic, muscle relaxant

  • Passionflower – sleep, anxiety

  • Lemon balm – calming, mild antidepressant

• Teas:

  • Chamomile + lavender + oat straw in the evening

• Dosing: 2 dropperfuls of tincture blend 2–3x/day or as needed

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6. Homeopathic Remedies

• Initial Remedy: Argentum Nitricum 30C – for anticipatory anxiety, fear of losing control

• Backup/Secondary: Gelsemium 30C – for stage fright, trembling

• Dosing: 3 pellets under tongue 2x/day, reduce when stable

• Constitutional assessment recommended with classical homeopath

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7. Naturopathic Protocol

• Initial Consult: Full lifestyle intake, labs for cortisol rhythm, thyroid, B12, and magnesium

• Supplements:

  • Magnesium glycinate (400 mg daily)

  • B-complex (methylated)

  • L-theanine (100–200 mg as needed)

  • Adaptogens: Rhodiola + Eleuthero blend

• Hydrotherapy:

  • Contrast showers (3 minutes hot, 30 seconds cold) 3 cycles

  • Epsom salt baths 3x/week

• Lifestyle Counseling:

  • Sleep hygiene

  • Journaling with gratitude practices

  • Nature therapy ("green walks" 30 mins daily)

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Outcome Evaluation (6–8 Weeks)

• Use validated scales (GAD-7, PSQI for sleep, PSS)

• Look for:

  • Reduced frequency/intensity of anxiety

  • Improved sleep onset and quality

  • Better digestion and energy levels

  • Patient empowerment and participation