Morning Sicknessaccording to TCM

What is Morning Sickness?

Morning sickness, an emblematic early sign of pregnancy, manifests as nausea and vomiting, typically occurring in the first trimester. Though its name suggests a morning-only affliction, the discomfort can extend throughout the day, affecting an individual's daily activities and overall well-being. This common condition, while not usually harmful, can significantly impact the quality of life during its presence in pregnancy.

How does TCM View Morning Sickness?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches morning sickness from a holistic perspective, attributing it to imbalances within the body’s Qi (energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. Unlike Western medicine that often focuses on symptoms, TCM seeks to understand the underlying disharmony leading to nausea and vomiting.

By identifying specific patterns of imbalance, TCM practitioners tailor treatments that restore equilibrium, offering a distinct and nuanced approach to managing morning sickness.

Root Causes of Morning Sickness in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns of disharmony that can lead to morning sickness, including Qi Stagnation and Heat. A common cause is Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach, where the flow of energy is disrupted, leading to nausea.

Another pattern involves Heat, where Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat manifests as more intense symptoms. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing an effective TCM treatment strategy that addresses the root cause of morning sickness.

Explore below more details about what might cause Morning sickness according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Stomach
  • Liver
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Morning Sickness

Common Symptoms: Dry Mouth Nausea Or Vomiting Generalized Fatigue Chills Lack Of Appetite Depression Toothache Headaches

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Deficiency morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Lack of appetite, Depression, Dry mouth... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Mai Men Dong Tang
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more Yu Nu Jian | Wen Dan Tang
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 Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Deficiency morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Lack of appetite, Depression, Dry mouth... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Mai Men Dong Tang
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 Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Deficiency morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Lack of appetite, Depression, Dry mouth... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Mai Men Dong 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 Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
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 Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Xiao Ban Xia Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Deficiency morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Lack of appetite, Depression, Dry mouth... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Mai Men Dong Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Morning Sickness

Common Symptoms: Dry Mouth Lack Of Appetite Depression Dry Throat Vomiting Undigested Food Nausea Or Vomiting Generalized Fatigue Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Deficiency morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Nausea or vomiting, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Lack of appetite, Depression, Dry mouth... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Mai Men Dong Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more Yu Nu Jian | Wen Dan 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 Morning Sickness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, nvp, Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Morning Sickness

TCM offers a variety of formulas to combat morning sickness, depending on the identified pattern of disharmony. For Heat-related symptoms, Er Chen Tang and Yu Nu Jian can help dry Dampness and clear Heat from the Stomach.

Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach, may be alleviated with Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang. These formulas illustrate TCM’s customized approach to treatment, targeting the specific imbalances contributing to morning sickness.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that enrich yin and moisten dryness
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that clear heat
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Stomach Deficiency
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Stomach Deficiency
Mai Men Dong Tang Stomach Deficiency
Yu Nu Jian Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Wen Dan Tang Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Stomach Deficiency
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Stomach Deficiency
Mai Men Dong Tang Stomach Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Stomach Deficiency
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Stomach Deficiency
Mai Men Dong Tang Stomach Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
Zuo Jin Wan Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang Phlegm
Xiao Ban Xia Tang Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Morning Sickness Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Stomach Deficiency
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Stomach Deficiency
Mai Men Dong Tang Stomach Deficiency

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for morning sickness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Stomach Deficiency
Wen Dan Tang Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang Not applicable

All "formulas for a rebellious qi" recommended for morning sickness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Ban Xia Tang Phlegm
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Not applicable
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Not applicable
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang Not applicable

Acupoints for Morning Sickness

In addressing morning sickness, TCM emphasizes the use of specific acupoints that harmonize the stomach's energy, clear heat, and stabilize the Qi. Notable among these is Jinjin EX-HN-12 and Yuye EX-HN-13, both situated below the tongue, which are instrumental in clearing heat, reducing swelling, and promoting the generation of body fluids, thereby offering relief from nausea.

Additionally, the Kidney Channel acupoint Youmen KID-21, located 6 cun above the umbilicus and 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, is known for its ability to regulate stomach Qi, subdue rebellious Qi, alleviate liver Qi stagnation, and benefit the breasts. Through the targeted stimulation of these acupoints, acupuncture serves as a vital TCM technique to mitigate the discomfort of morning sickness, offering expectant mothers a natural and holistic form of relief.

Explore below some acupoints used to address morning sickness, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
  • Kidney Channel
Youmen KID-21

Youmen KID-21

6 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun below the sternocostal angle, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.