Blocked Menstruationaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Amenorrhea and Delayed Menstruation

Did you mean? Amenorrhea

What is Blocked Menstruation?

Blocked menstruation refers to a condition where a woman experiences an absence or significant delay in her menstrual cycle. Unlike normal variations in cycle lengths, blocked menstruation can indicate underlying health issues or imbalances. It's distinct from amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation for several months or longer, but the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in lay discussions. This condition can stem from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight loss or gain, and certain medical conditions.

How does TCM view Blocked Menstruation?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blocked menstruation is seen through a lens vastly different from Western medicine. It's often attributed to imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. TCM believes that for menstruation to occur smoothly, the Blood must flow freely and the Qi must be balanced.

Thus, any disruption in these energies can lead to blocked menstruation. Diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM, as it guides the treatment plan, including the selection of acupuncture points, herbs, and dietary adjustments.

Root Causes of Blocked Menstruation in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that could lead to blocked menstruation, with Yin Deficiency and Blood Deficiency being among the primary causes. Yin Deficiency, which might manifest as Lung, Kidney, Liver or Heart Yin Deficiency, leads to insufficient cooling and moistening of the body, affecting the menstrual cycle. Symptoms may include a hoarse voice, night sweats, and a sensation of heat.

Blood Deficiency, on the other hand, implies a lack of the nourishing and moisturizing aspect of Blood, leading to symptoms like dizziness, pale face, and generalized fatigue. Treatment focuses on nourishing Yin and Blood to restore menstrual flow.

Explore below more details about what might cause Blocked menstruation according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Essence Deficiency
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Blood Stasis
  • Phlegm
  • Dampness
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Dry Mouth Dry Throat Night Sweats Hot Palms And Soles Insomnia Amenorrhea Generalized Fatigue Flushed Cheekbones

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Heart Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling hot, Heat sensation in palms Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more He Che Da Zao Wan | Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Generalized Fatigue Dizziness Depression Amenorrhea Low Energy Skin Dryness Primary Amenorrhea Lower Back Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Low energy, Chills, Dark face... see more Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | He Che Da Zao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Essence Deficiency

In TCM "Essence" (Jing) deficiency refers to a depletion of the body's fundamental substance, which is vital for growth, development, reproduction, and overall vitality. Jing, often translated as "Essence," is a unique concept in TCM, seen as the basis of all life activities and inherited from our parents. Essence deficiency manifests in various symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, weakness, slow physical or mental development, fertility issues, premature aging, weak bones, and a lackluster complexion. It can also affect the hair, leading to premature greying or hair loss. This pattern of disharmony often arises from congenital factors, chronic illness, overwork, or excessive behaviors that drain the body's resources. ... see more

Essence Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Low energy, Chills, Dark face... see more Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | He Che Da Zao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi And Blood Stagnation blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi And Blood Stagnation blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Generalized Fatigue Dizziness Amenorrhea Dry Mouth Dry Throat Night Sweats Skin Dryness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more He Che Da Zao Wan | Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Low energy, Chills, Dark face... see more Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | He Che Da Zao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Generalized Fatigue Dizziness Amenorrhea Dry Mouth Dry Throat Night Sweats Skin Dryness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more He Che Da Zao Wan | Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang
Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Primary amenorrhea, Lower back pain, Generalized fatigue, Knee pain, Dizziness, Depression, Amenorrhea, Low energy, Chills, Dark face... see more Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | He Che Da Zao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Yin Deficiency blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling hot, Heat sensation in palms Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Blocked Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus blocked menstruation, blocked periods, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Blocked Menstruation

To address blocked menstruation, TCM practitioners might recommend a variety of formulas and herbs tailored to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony. For Yin Deficiency, formulas like Bai He Gu Jin Tang, which nourishes Lung Yin, and Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan for Heart Yin Deficiency, are commonly used.

In cases of Blood Deficiency, Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang and Dang Gui Di Huang Yin can help replenish Qi and nourish Blood, respectively. These treatments aim to re-balance the body's energies, promote the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, and consequently restore regular menstruation.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address blocked menstruation, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Essence Deficiency
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Blood Stasis
  • Phlegm
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
He Che Da Zao Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Bai He Gu Jin Tang Lung Yin Deficiency
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan Heart Yin Deficiency
Tiao Gan Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
He Che Da Zao Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Essence Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
He Che Da Zao Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wu Yao Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wei Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wu Yao Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wei Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All Formulas Recommended for Blocked Menstruation Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for blocked menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Bai He Gu Jin Tang Lung Yin Deficiency
Tiao Gan Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for blocked menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Dang Gui Di Huang Yin Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Si Wu Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for blocked menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
He Che Da Zao Wan Liver Blood and Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for blocked menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

TCM Herbs for Blocked Menstruation

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

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
  • Herbs that invigorate the blood
  • Herbs that regulate qi
  • Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
  • Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
  • Herbs that cool the blood
  • Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
  • Aromatic herbs that transform dampness

"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for blocked menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Safflowers (Hong Hua) Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang

"Herbs that regulate Qi" recommended for blocked menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Lindera Roots (Wu Yao) Wu Yao Tang
Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan