Improving Male Fertility Using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Improving Male Fertility Using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share If you and your spouse have been actively but unsuccessfully trying for a child, please know that you are definitely not alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infertility will be the third most serious health condition after cancer and cardiovascular diseases plaguing humanity in the 21st century. About 40 per cent of married Singaporean couples who are actively trying for a baby are “not happy” with their progress, according to a recent survey on fertility health released in July 2019. While women traditionally bore the stigma of infertility and childlessness, the man’s role in infertility issues is gaining awareness. Recent statistics show that married couples experiencing infertility are due to problems arising from the male partner.1 While there is a lack of nationwide data regarding male reproductive health, doctors say rising male infertility rates here mirror the global phenomenon of declining sperm quality in the last 40 years. How is infertility defined? Infertility is defined as a failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. How can Oriental Remedies Group help men who are experiencing infertility issues? Note: All words in Italics refer to the TCM organ-system and not the anatomical organ referenced in western medicine. Step 1: Full analysis of the semen analysis report The first step to understanding male infertility involves making sense of the semen analysis report. According to the 5th edition of the WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen, a normal semen sample should fulfil the parameters below: An example of a semen analysis report A sex hormone test (testosterone, estrogen, FSH, LH and prolactin levels) can be very helpful in providing the physician with baseline information about your endocrine health. This report combined with other findings mentioned above helps the physician determine the number of courses required for treatment. An example of a sex hormone test. Source: Reddit In a typical consult, our experienced physicians would encourage our patients to bring their past health reports especially any fertility test results for a holistic understanding of the couple’s health conditions. Step 2: Understand the root cause issues from a TCM perspective Male infertility can be due to many factors ranging from congenital factors, dietary habits, emotional extremes, external pathogenic factors, external injuries and maltreatment among various others. However, not every male exposed to the same external factors results in infertility. This can be attributed to the health of the individual’s Kidneys. With this understanding, modern eminent TCM andrologists like Professor Xu Fu Song(徐福松) and Wang Qi (王琦) have successfully treated numerous patients for many decades by combining continual research in TCM and use of scientific advances in semen analysis and endocrine testing. TCM believes that the Kidneys govern the pre-natal essence or Jing(精) in the human body. This pre-natal essence is what determines the quality of our reproductive ability to carry on the family line. Having said that, the quality of the Kidney essence depends largely on the surplus Qi(气) which our other organs produce. TCM handles male infertility by understanding if there are excess or deficiencies in the body. Tonifying deficiency and removing excess is a fundamental technique used to restore balance and harmony to the body. The semen analysis content is first divided into classifications of excess or deficiency. For example, when there is a diminished sperm concentration, it could signify a deficiency in the body resulting in Kidney deficiency. When the percentage of sperm with normal morphology is low, it usually signifies that there is an excess in pathogenic factors that have to be cleared in order to restore balance to the body. Other than the semen analysis, the sexual function of the male is also assessed as different symptoms of erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation could provide clues as to which organs are not functioning optimally. Examples like erectile dysfunction during stressful periods is a signal of Liver Qi stagnation whereas premature ejaculation combined with frequent sweating alludes to Lung Qi deficiency. Step 3: Customised treatment approach at Oriental Remedies Group (ORG)? Because everyone is unique and lead dissimilar lifestyles, a one size fits all approach will be insufficient to manage this issue. Only a holistic approach taking into consideration all factors that result in poor fertility can TCM manage this condition. This means that not only will you regain your reproductive health, your general health will also see visible and perceptible improvement. Through our TCM diagnosis and observing how our body reacts to our diet, lifestyle and environment, we can empower you to make the right choices and tailor-make a treatment course most beneficial to your reproductive health. What are the treatments offered for fertility improvements? Herbal Medication Our experienced and well-trained physicians will go through with you your body condition, daily habits and so on to gain a better understanding about the root causes of the imbalances in your body. For example, if the root cause is due to spleen deficiency and dampness, the physicians may prescribe Bai Zhu, Fu Ling and Yi Yi Ren to tonify the Spleen and remove dampness. If the issues are more related to Kidney Yin deficiency, the physicians may use Gou qi zi, Shu Di Huang, Shan Zhu Yu to replenish Kidney Yin. As for damp-heat, Tu Fu Ling, Bi Xie and Che Qian Zi to clear heat and drain dampness. For infertility patients, common herbs that are prescribed to help boost the quality of sperm include Gou Qi Zi, Tu Si Zi, Wu Wei Zi, Fu Pen Zi and Che Qian Zi. These 5 herbs combine to form a decoction called Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan, the premier fertility decoction of ancient and modern times. However, the components of each infertility patient’s medication would differ based on the root cause(s) and deficiencies they may have. Acupuncture Acupuncture uses very fine needles into specific points along the meridians to correct the imbalances of the various organs. In one study regarding acupuncture and abnormal semen parameters, acupuncture was used to stimulate 4 points on the body namely, BL23 (Shen Shu), ST36 (Zu San Li), CV1 (Hui Yin) and CV4 (Guan Yuan). A placebo control group together with a blank control group were
Chinese Four Herbs Soup – Dessert Edition
WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Another common body constitution in Singapore is Qi Deficiency. This constitution greatly affects your immunity. To help, we have adapted a popular soup recipe for dessert to invigorate your Qi. But first, let’s look at some common indicators of Qi Deficiency: Often short of breath/fatigue, dizziness, feeble voice (esp. after exercising) Catch flu/cold easily, sinusitis, sensitive to environmental changes (weaker immune system) Palpitations, lower backaches, frequent urination, impotence or low libido. Pelvic Organ Prolapse (dropped bladder, bowel, rectum, uterus) Excessive sweating, teeth marks on the tongue, bloating especially after eating, sluggish bowel movements Qi Stagnation was a topic explored in one of our corporate talks from September 2019. To know more about our talks, kindly contact us. Recipe for Qi Invigorating Dessert Soup Four Herbs Dessert Soup An alternative take on the Chinese Four Herbs Soup (Si Shen Tang 四神汤) Chinese Yam – Shan Yao 山药 23 grams Poria – Fu Ling 茯苓 30 grams Gordon Euryale Seeds – Qian Shi 芡实 30 grams Lotus seeds – Lian Zhi 莲子 30 grams Optional ingredients to make your soup tastier: Rock sugar Red dates Longan Gingko nuts White fungus Silky tofu skin Instructions Bring ingredients up to a boil in 1.5L to 2L of water. Lower heat and let simmer for at least 1 hr. Allow it to cool before serving. We recommend you serve it warm and with less sugar, opt for natural sweeteners like Red dates or Honey. Warm foods are also more beneficial than cold or iced options. Check out our Calming Tea recipe for Qi Stagnation here. Check out our nourishing meat and soup recipe here. Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. RELATED TOPICS
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support?
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support? WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share We understand that a cancer diagnosis for you or your loved one can be a distressing and emotional time for you and your family. In this article, we will explain how Oriental Remedies Group can help improve the quality of life for the patient during this tumultuous period, by providing cancer support via Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Technology-Enhanced Therapies, along your route to recovery. In recent years, more cancer patients are turning to TCM as a form of cancer support. In our clinic, we see an increasing number of patients who suffer from side effects of chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy and are seeking complementary TCM therapies to reduce the side effects and alleviate symptoms such as pain. Why use TCM for cancer support? Many clinical studies have shown that TCM is effective in supporting treatments against breast, gastric and lung cancer. An example from one of the researches shows that when TCM is used as a complementary therapy combined with conventional chemotherapy, patients increased the survival rate, had a better response to chemotherapy and experienced reduced side effects, including vomiting and the decline of red blood cells.[1] On top of that, TCM also improves the effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in fighting cancer, guided by therapeutic principles of tonifying Qi and producing Blood[1], strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, nourishing the Liver and Kidney and removing Heat or inflammation from Blood and toxic materials from the body. TCM also plays a strong role in helping patients with advanced cancer diagnosis or patients, especially elderly ones, where radiotherapy and chemotherapy are deemed as unsuitable treatment therapies. Research shows that TCM can stabilise tumour lesions, improve symptoms, enhance the quality of life and prolong survival time.[1] If you’re getting a little lost above, fret not. In this article, we hope to demystify TCM and help you gain better knowledge and awareness so that you can make an informed decision with the use of TCM treatments in your recovery. The efficacy of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in cancer treatment. Source: NCBI What exactly is cancer? According to the Singapore Cancer Society, cancer is a term that refers to a group of diseases, all of which are characterised by abnormal cell growth.[2] When the normal regulated process of cell division and growth malfunctions, the cells will grow and divide uncontrollably. As they continue to grow and multiply, they may amass to form tumours. There are two kinds of tumours; benign and malignant. The former is a tumour that continues to grow and divide in the same place, without spreading to other parts of the body. On the other hand, when the tumour spreads and invades into other parts of the body via metastasis, it is a life-threatening tumour known as malignant tumours. What causes cancer from a TCM perspective? 1) Weak immunity Qi has a defensive mechanism that protects the body, thus weakened Qi formed from poor digestive function results in weakened immunity Coldness restricts the flow of Qi and Blood resulting in stagnation Stress and emotions stagnate Qi flow 2) Poor Blood circulation It can result from coldness accumulated in the body. This could be from external environment or frequent ingestion of food of cold nature Weak Qi (energy) is unable to encourage Blood flow. Hence, many cancer patients tend to feel cold and have cold extremities Blood is thick and turbid thus stagnated 3) Phlegm Dampness accumulation Weakened digestive function Excessive intake of food of cold nature or oily/greasy food Exposure to cold environments weakens Spleen’s ability to transform food into nutritive essence, thereby reducing the formation of Qi and Blood Poor bowel movement results in the accumulation of toxins 4) Exposure to Dampness from the environment Environmental toxins Exposure of damp and cold environment Patient trying Electro-Lymphatic Therapy at Oriental Remedies Group How does Oriental Remedies Group support cancer recovery? TCM views the treatment of cancer holistically, with a systematic approach being taken to treat and improve the overall condition of the body. Physicians customise a treatment plan suited to the patient, based on the identified root cause(s). At Oriental Remedies Group, a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatments and Technology-Enhanced Therapies are prescribed to boost the patients’ immune system and to strengthen and nourish the body. Even when you are undergoing conventional cancer treatments, you can still work on improving your quality of life! Find out some of the key therapies prescribed for cancer warriors below: Acupuncture Acupuncture utilises very fine needles placed at different parts of the body to help regulate, realign and improve the condition of the body and its organs Acupuncture treatments are focused on improving the patients’ quality of life Cancer patients report the below benefits: Strengthened immune system More energy and reduced lethargy Reduced cancer treatment side effects Reduced anxiety Herbal Medication Helps to recuperate the body, replenish the Qi and energy, nourishing the body so that it can fight the cancer cells Some herbal medication are supported by research to help suppress the growth and spread of cancer in the body Electro-Lymphatic Therapy Improves the function of the lymphatic system which is closely linked to ‘San Jiao’ in TCM Cancer patients report better well-being: Strengthened immunity Reduced pain, aches and inflammation Reduce water retention and lymphedema (especially for cancer patients who have gone through lymph node removals) Better sleep and mobility Aside from TCMxTech-Enhanced Therapies recommended by your physicians, it is equally important for cancer patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet for their body system to function optimally while/after undergoing treatments. Here are some strategies on How To Eat Right During and After Chemotherapy/ Radiotherapy. Is TCM suitable for every cancer patient? Yes! TCM Physicians work alongside major hospitals in Singapore like Tan Tock Seng Hospital to provide care to patients with all sorts of conditions, not just cancer. However, it is important to seek professional consultation from certified physicians as some patients may be allergic to certain herbs, or certain herbs are not suitable when patients
Western Pain Diagnosis Through an Eastern Lens
Western Pain Diagnosis Through an Eastern Lens WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share The following content was presented by Physician Leong at the Helping CHEN Summit by Pfizer on 11 May 2019. Many people have experienced pain relief with TCM treatments, but often don’t understand why they felt their pain go away. In this article written for allopathic doctors (or any curious audience, really), we will cover: What are the ‘western medical names’ for pain conditions identified in TCM? Acupoints that are useful for pain relief If one does not have access to a certified acupuncturist, you can also do acupressure massage on these points for relief. Ethiology (TCM) Common Corresponding Issues/Symptoms Acute Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region Traumatic Injury, Soft tissue Sprains and strains Bone Spurs Pain usually fixed and aggravated upon movement and/or pressure Chronic Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the meridians (Urinary Bladder (UB), Gall Bladder (GB) and Governing Vessel (GV) Channels) Bone Spurs Slipped Disc/Nerve Irritation Sciatica Pain Pain began after exposure to pathogenic cold/wind/damp (symptoms could be weather related) Heavy sensation and pain in the lumbar region Stiffness of the muscles with possible limitation of movement Chronic Deficiency of the Kidneys Osteoporosis Pain is not severe – experience a sensation of soreness Weakness in the lumbar area as well as in the knees Ageing symptoms – fatigue, frequent urination, blurry vision, cold hands and feet Principles of acupoint selection: Etiology of Pain Acute vs Chronic Pain Patient’s condition: Ability to lie down? Tolerance of pain? Localised Treatment Huantiao (GB 30) Yaoyan (Extra 9) Shenshu (UB 23) Dachangshu (UB 25) Yaoyangguan (GV 3) Mingmen (GV 4) Distant Treatment Etiology & Pathology (TCM) Corresponding Issues/Symptoms A Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region Traumatic Injury, Sprains, Contusion Bone Spurs Pain usually fixed and aggravated upon movement and/or pressure B Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the corresponding channels and collaterals Bone Spurs Slipped Disc/Nerve Irritation Sciatica Pain Pain began after exposure to pathogenic cold/wind/damp (weather related) Heavy sensation and pain in the lumbar region Stiffness of the muscles with possible limitation of movement C Deficiency of the Kidneys Osteoporosis Pain is not severe – experience a sensation of soreness Weakness in the lumbar area as well as in the knees Ageing symptoms – fatigue, frequent urination, blurry vision, cold hands and feet Etiology & Pathology (TCM) Distant Acupoints to Resolve Root Causes A Stagnation of Qi and Blood in the lumbar region S1-S2 pain, difficulty in rotation – Houxi (SI 3), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09) Pain above L2, bone spurs – Yaotongxue, Zhongbai (T 22.06), Xiabai (T 22.07) B Invasion and retention of pathogenic cold/wind/damp in the corresponding channels and collaterals L4-L5 pain/Sciatica – Weizhong (UB 40) Xuanzhong (GB39), Dabai (T 22.04), Linggu (T 22.05) Bleeding for UB 40. Sciatica with bone spurs – GB 30, Yanglingquan (GB 34), Quchi (LI 11) Expels cold – Yaoyangguan (GV 3), Huofuhai (T 33.07), Jianzhong (T 44.06) Dispel wind – Fengshi (GB 31), Shouwujin (T 33.08), Shouqianjin (T 33.09) Dispel dampness and bone spur – Minghuang (T 88.12), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Qihuang (T 88.14) C Deficiency of the Kidneys Nourish kidneys – Taixi (KD 3), Guanyuan (CV 4), Qihai (CV 6) Improving weakness in the knees – Shenmen (HT 7), Shaohai (HT 3), Yanglingquan (GB 34), Weizhong (UB 40) Do you have issues that may require a physician? Contact us at +65 8087 0486 or drop us a Whatsapp to make an appointment. Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. RELATED TOPICS
TCM Tea – For Digital Fatigue
TCM Tea – For Digital Fatigue WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Are you glued to your computers, laptops, handphones, television all day long? You might be impacted by digital fatigue. This type of visual fatigue can set in as quickly as 2 hours. It results in physical discomfort of the eye after prolonged exposure to a digital screen. What are some of the signs of Digital Fatigue? Sore, tired, irritated eyes Difficulty focusing Dry or watery eyes Blurred vision Sensitivity to light How is Digital Fatigue diagnosed in Traditional Chinese Medicine? 1. Liver, Heart Fire Excess (More common among working adults, teenagers, students) : Redness in the eyes Tired or painful eyes Bitterness in the mouth Tension headaches Insomnia Vivid dreams Raised blood pressure Constipation Palpitations Overworked Stress Easily agitated Extreme thirst 2. Liver, Heart Fire Excess (More common among elderly) : Blurred vision Sore and tired eyes Difficulty focusing Watery Eyes Sensitive to light Dizziness Thirst Ringing in the ears Chronic lower back weakness Balding Night sweats Weak knees Are your conditions serious? Come on down for a consultation. Click here to contact us! Article by Physician Leong Weizhen (Founder of Oriental Remedies Group, Singapore), a registered Tradition Chinese Medicine Physician. Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. RELATED TOPICS
Understanding Paediatric Massage
Understanding Paediatric Massage WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Have you heard of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Paediatric Massage? Paediatric Massage was developed 2300 years ago and has survived the test of time, helping many adorable children get better. As we know, children do not fancy bitter TCM concoction nor painful injections, Paediatric Massage is a gentle way to help children regain their health. With the increasing recognition of preventive health by parents, like yourself, this relaxing and therapeutic approach has gained popularity and is widely accepted by children of all ages. Let’s explore what it is and how it works! We will also be sharing with you simple techniques that you can perform on your child. What is TCM Paediatric Massage? Since ancient times, this traditional treatment method has played an important role in both disease prevention and treatment of ailments. TCM Paediatric Massage relies on principles of TCM, and techniques performed are in strict compliance with clinical diagnosis. As a child has delicate and soft skin, different massage techniques are used compared to adult Tuina Massages. Children also have unique acupoints that consist of areas and linear points. We will be sharing some straightforward techniques that can be easily picked up by you to help with your child’s general wellness as well. Why is TCM Paediatric Massage more popular now? Not only does it bring about great benefits, it is also a safe and efficient treatment. Paediatric Massage is not painful or harsh like Tuina massages usually done on adults – the techniques used are different due to differences in the physiology of children and adults. More importantly, physical touch plays a vital role in healing1 and this gentle form of treatment will be able to keep children free from medical-related stress they would otherwise experience in hospitals or with taking medications. Now let us explain your children’s physiology and the basis of how this massage works in treating your child’s issues. Understanding Children Physiology from TCM perspective The physiology of a child is different from that of an adult in the following aspects: Firstly, their internal Zang-Fu organs are delicate, especially their Lung, Spleen and Kidney, and their physiological functions have yet to fully mature. Therefore it is easier for external pathogens to enter their body and easier for their digestive system to be affected by the food they take in. Secondly, due to the incomplete development of Yin and Yang in their body, there is a higher tendency to see Yin and Yang imbalances in children. Their body’s self-defenses and self-regulation mechanisms are therefore weaker. Disease progression is also fast in children, and may easily progress into more complicated forms within a short period of time. As such, a quick response is vital. While the balance between Yin and Yang in children is delicate and easily upset, it has a tendency to tilt towards Yang. Children have vibrant and rapid growth and physicians in ancient times have pointed out that the body constitution of a child is full of Yang energy, like a rising sun in the morning. Hence, it is common to see “excess Yang, insufficient Yin” body constitution in a child. The advantage of the children’s body is that due to the highly pure and clean state of the body, children are able to heal at a much faster rate, as long as immediate action is taken to combat the problem. What are the benefits of TCM Paediatric Massage? Understanding the children’s physiology, we know that children are more prone to falling sick, and once sick, the disease progresses and worsens rapidly. If the child has strong immunity, the recovery is similarly quick. Essentially, this means fast response is vital and also reflects the importance of preventive measures to strengthen the child’s immunity. TCM Paediatric Massage elicits fast response by directly stimulating related organ systems to correct the issue at hand and is also a safe long term preventive measure for your kids. TCM Paediatric Massage can be used to treat a wide range of diseases in children. In particular, the effects of Pediatric Massage for common pediatric diseases of the respiratory system and digestive system are pronounced, making this a go-to treatment for such problems2. When a child has a disease, it is usually due to disturbance in normal Qi of certain internal Zang-Fu or due to imbalances in Yin and Yang. By massaging a certain part of the child’s body, the corresponding Zang-Fu in the body will be regulated through meridians to help restore the normal flow, thereby achieving healing. Similarly, through correct massage actions, Yin and Yang imbalances can be corrected. With proper diagnosis, this massage treatment is able to target the root of the issues and capable of treating chronic conditions. In addition to the treatment of diseases, Paediatric Massage can also be used to strengthen the health and immunity of the child, improving their body constitution and increasing the child’s resistance against diseases. Modern research has shown that Paediatric Massage has a positive effect on not only the physiological functions of the body but also the psychological functions as well, with a very strong effect on reducing anxiety in children3. Learning simple paediatric massage techniques As mentioned, there are 3 internal organs in the children where Qi deficiency is more prominent, with Spleen being one of the aforementioned organs. The Spleen is responsible for the intake, processing and distribution of nutrients from food, in the form of Essence, that is essential to our body’s function. Deficiency of Spleen-qi in children can result in weaker digestion, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, poor appetite, indigestion and bloated stomach. As mentioned, there are 3 internal organs in the children where Qi deficiency is more prominent, with Spleen being one of the aforementioned organs. The Spleen is responsible for the intake, processing and distribution of nutrients from food, in the form of Essence, that is essential to our body’s function. Deficiency of Spleen-qi in children can result in weaker digestion, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, poor appetite, indigestion and bloated stomach. 1) 补脾经 Nourishing the Spleen Meridian Location: On the side of thumb away from the other fingers Action: Brush downwards from the tip of the thumb towards the root of the thumb Frequency:
