Lymphadenitisaccording to TCM

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Symptom family: Lymphatic Disorders

What is Lymphadenitis?

Lymphadenitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the lymph nodes, the small, bean-shaped glands part of the immune system. It occurs when these nodes become swollen due to an infection or, less commonly, a non-infectious disease. The swelling is a response to a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi, indicating an effort by the lymphatic system to fight off these invaders. Symptoms may include tender and swollen lymph nodes, fever, and in some cases, a warm, red overlying skin area.

How does TCM view Lymphadenitis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches lymphadenitis with a focus on the underlying imbalances within the body's energetic pathways. TCM posits that lymphadenitis results from the stagnation of Qi and Blood, invasion of pathogenic factors such as Wind, Cold, Damp, Heat, or an accumulation of Toxic-Heat.

According to TCM, each symptom provides a clue to the nature of the imbalance. Thus, understanding and addressing the root cause, rather than merely alleviating symptoms, is paramount for treatment. This holistic approach seeks to restore harmony and balance to the body's Qi, promoting health and well-being.

Causes of Lymphadenitis According to TCM

In TCM, lymphadenitis is often attributed to the invasion of Toxic-Heat, which can arise from external pathogenic factors penetrating the body, leading to inflammation and swelling as the body attempts to expel these toxins. The perspective highlights TCM's intricate understanding of bodily functions and its emphasis on the interconnectedness of physical symptoms with internal disharmonies.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Lymphadenitis

To address lymphadenitis, TCM utilizes a variety of herbal formulas tailored to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony. For conditions marked by Toxic-Heat, formulas like Shi Wei Bai Du San, which includes Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng), and Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin, featuring Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin), are commonly prescribed to expel pathogens and clear Heat.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address lymphadenitis, organized by formula type.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity

Acupoints for Lymphadenitis

TCM also employs acupuncture as a complementary treatment for lymphadenitis, targeting specific acupoints to alleviate symptoms and treat underlying causes. One such point, Renying ST-9, located near the Adam's apple, is significant for its ability to regulate the flow of Qi to and from the head, as well as dissipate nodules and swelling.

This practice underscores TCM's multifaceted approach to health, integrating herbal medicine with acupuncture to enhance the body's natural healing capabilities and restore equilibrium.

See more details below about Renying ST-9, an acupoint used to address lymphadenitis.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
Renying ST-9

Renying ST-9

Level with the tip of Adam's apple, 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

TCM Herbs for Lymphadenitis

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address lymphadenitis, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
  • Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
  • Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
  • Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Cool herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
  • Herbs that cool the blood

"Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity" recommended for lymphadenitis

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Natural Indigo (Qing Dai) Er Qing Gao
Selanginella Herbs (Shi shang Bai) Not applicable
Dandelions (Pu Gong Ying) Not applicable
Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao) Not applicable
Smilax Glabra Roots (Tu Fu Ling) Not applicable

"Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat" recommended for lymphadenitis

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Anemarrhena Rhizomes (Zhi Mu) San Zhong Kui Jian Tang
Climbing Groundsel Herbs (Qian Li Guang) Not applicable

"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for lymphadenitis

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) Shi Wei Bai Du San
Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie) Shi Wei Bai Du San