The Art and Science of Duì Yào: Unveiling Biochemical Synergies

Here I dive into the fascinating world of botanicals and one of my favorite parts of traditional medicine, exploring the intricate balance between ancient wisdom and modern scientific understanding. This article spotlights Duì Yào (对药), a unique practice within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that exemplifies the profound art and science of combining botanicals. It’s a class I used to teach and hope to offer it again as a continuing education module. And maybe a book…

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The Lung-Gut Axis: An Integrated Perspective from Functional and Chinese Medicine

The emerging concept of the Lung-Gut Axis (LGA) is revolutionizing our understanding of respiratory and systemic health. This bidirectional communication pathway highlights a deep connection between the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, primarily mediated by the microbiota and the immune system. Both Functional Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer unique, yet harmonious, frameworks for understanding and influencing this critical axis.

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Integrating Functional Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for Shingles Support

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once VZV is reactivated, it travels along nerve pathways to the skin, causing a characteristic rash and often severe pain. While conventional treatment focuses on antiviral medications and pain relief, Functional Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer distinct yet complementary approaches to support patients, aiming not only for symptom relief but also addressing the underlying factors contributing to the viral reactivation.

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Melatonin & Heart Health – The Risks

The popular sleep aid is under scrutiny following a large observational study linking chronic use to an elevated risk of heart failure and mortality.

Melatonin has long been regarded as a safe, “natural” supplement for sleep regulation. However, new data presented at the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025 has prompted health experts to urge caution, particularly regarding long-term, nightly use. 

The study was a research abstract. Abstracts presented at American Heart Association’s scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, and the findings are considered preliminary until published as full manuscripts in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

💔 The Key Finding: An Unforeseen Association

A large, multinational observational study—analyzing the health records of tens of thousands of adults with chronic insomnia over five years—found a significant correlation between long-term melatonin use and serious cardiovascular outcomes.

The most striking statistics were:

• Heart Failure Risk: Individuals whose health records indicated using melatonin for 12 months or more had an approximately 90% higher chance of being diagnosed with incident heart failure over the five-year period, compared to non-users with insomnia.
• Hospitalization & Mortality: Long-term users were also nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and almost twice as likely to die from any cause during the follow-up period.

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Understanding Peyronie’s Disease & Treatment Options

Introduction: Contextualizing the Disease

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a distinct urological condition characterized by the formation of fibrous scar tissue, known as plaque, within the tunica albuginea of the penis. This plaque, which is fundamentally different from arterial or dental plaque, interferes with the elasticity of the penile tissue, leading to a bent or curved erection, penile pain, and potential shortening. The disease is classified as a wound-healing disorder, a categorization that aligns it with other fibrotic conditions like keloids and Dupuytren’s contracture, the latter of which is a thick cord under the skin of the palm that pulls the fingers inward and is often a co-morbid condition. While PD is most prevalent in men aged 40 to 70, its exact epidemiology remains limited.

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