Honoring Womanhood: Understanding Menstrual Health Through the Wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine

A Personal Note from Dr. Angela Zeng, Founder of Karviva

As May unfolds—a month that celebrates both AAPI Heritage Month and Mother’s Day—I’m reminded of the deep connection between culture, womanhood, and health. Growing up in a family rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), I learned early on that wellness isn’t just about treating symptoms. Wellness is about understanding the rhythms of our bodies and nurturing balance.

When I moved to the West, I was surprised by how many women accepted menstrual pain, mood swings, and fatigue as simply part of life. In TCM, these signs aren’t “normal”—they’re gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) reminders that the body is calling for care.

Karviva was founded on the belief that ancient wisdom and modern science can work together to empower women on their wellness journeys. This May, I want to honor every woman—whether you’re a mother, daughter, sister, or friend—by sharing insights that can help transform how we view menstrual health.

Let’s embrace a new perspective—one where we listen to our bodies, honor our cycles, and find strength in balance.

— With Love, Angela

The Silent Struggles: Why Period Pain Isn’t “Normal”

For generations, women have been told to “just deal with it” when it comes to menstrual discomfort. Whether it’s cramps, bloating, mood swings, or fatigue. These symptoms are often dismissed or covered up with quick fixes like painkillers.

But according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), menstrual pain is not something women are destined to endure—it’s a sign that the body’s natural flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood is out of balance.

Rather than suppressing symptoms, TCM encourages us to understand why they occur, offering personalized approaches to restore harmony and promote long-term wellness.

Three Types of Menstrual Pain Through the Lens of TCM

Not all period pain is created equal. TCM identifies different patterns based on when and how discomfort appears, allowing for more targeted care.

1. Pre-Menstrual Pain: The Stress Connection (Qi Stagnation)

If you feel bloated, irritable, or experience dull lower abdominal pain before your period starts, this is often linked to Liver Qi Stagnation. Stress, poor sleep, or emotional tension can block the smooth flow of energy, leading to discomfort.

⭐ Good News:This type of pain is usually temporary and improves when stress is managed. Mindfulness practices, proper rest, and herbal support can help Qi flow freely again.

2. Pain with Heavy Flow: Blood Stasis and Circulation Challenges

If cramps peak during the first days of heavy bleeding, especially with blood clots, TCM points to Blood Stasis. Poor circulation in the lower abdomen can cause intense pain and may impact fertility or lead to conditions like fibroids or cysts if left unchecked.

⭐ TCM Approach: Focus on improving blood flow, clearing stagnation, and reducing internal heat (inflammation) to create a healthier environment for your reproductive system.

3. Pain After the Flow Lessens: A Sign of Deficiency

If pain starts toward the end of your period, accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or palpitations, it’s often due to Qi and Blood Deficiency—your body is simply depleted after blood loss.

⭐ Nourish and Restore: This is when your body needs gentle replenishment. Traditional herbal formulas like Si Wu Tang have been used for centuries to restore vitality.

Nurturing Hope: A Natural Ally for Women’s Wellness

Inspired by these TCM principles, we crafted Karviva Hope—a wellness drink designed to support overall health through nature’s most powerful plants.

Infused with:

1. 1. Broccoli Sprouts & Bean Sprouts combined with Ginger – known to promote detoxification and healthy circulation, ideal for addressing stagnation and lower inflammation.
   2. Holy Basil (Tulsi) – an adaptogen that helps calm the mind and balance stress-induced Qi stagnation.
   3. Cucumber – offering cooling hydration, helping to ease internal heat (inflammation) that can exacerbate menstrual discomfort.

Whether you’re navigating monthly cycles, managing hormonal imbalances, or simply seeking daily balance, Karviva Hopeis more than a drink—it’s a ritual of self-care rooted in centuries of Eastern wisdom.

👉 Give your body the gift of balance with Karviva Hope.

Honoring Women Everywhere: From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Wellness

This May, as we celebrate the incredible women who nurture life—whether as mothers, daughters, or friends—let’s also recognize the quiet strength it takes to navigate the complexities of womanhood.

At Karviva, we believe that true empowerment comes from understanding your body and supporting it with mindful, holistic care. TCM reminds us that health isn’t about fighting symptoms—it’s about creating harmony within.

Karviva’s Simple Tips for Menstrual Wellness

Incorporate these gentle practices inspired by TCM:

1. 1. 💧 Stay Hydrated with functional beverages rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients (like Karviva Detox Juices, Karviva Rejuvenate the ancient beauty tonic, Karviva ACE collagen hydration juices, and Karviva Energy Juices!).
   2. 🌿 Manage Stress through meditation, light exercise, or adaptogenic herbs (like Karviva Unwined wine-replacement drinks).
   3. ❄️ Avoid Cold Foods during your period to support healthy circulation.
   4. 📖 Track Your Cycle to better understand your body’s patterns and needs.

Embrace, Empower, and Elevate Your Wellness

Womanhood is a journey of cycles, resilience, and renewal. By embracing the wisdom of Traditional Eastern Medicine, we can shift from merely enduring discomfort to thriving in balance.

This AAPI Heritage Month and Mother’s Day, let’s honor not only the women who care for others—but also those who choose to care for themselves.

Here’s to celebrating your strength, your heritage, and your health.

— The Karviva Team