Abdominal Edema in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different abdominal edema patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Abdominal edema is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, leading to swelling and distension in the belly area. This symptom can be a sign of various underlying health issues, ranging from liver disease to heart failure.
The edema results from fluid imbalance in the body, often linked to compromised organ function or circulatory issues. It can cause discomfort, heaviness, and may affect mobility. Recognizing and addressing the root cause of abdominal edema is crucial for effective treatment and relief.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches abdominal edema with a distinct perspective compared to Western medicine. In TCM, this symptom is seen as an indication of imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy) and Body Fluids.
It emphasizes identifying specific patterns of disharmony that lead to fluid accumulation. TCM views abdominal edema as a manifestation of deeper systemic issues rather than an isolated condition, focusing on restoring balance and harmony to the body's energy systems for treatment.
TCM Patterns for Abdominal Edema
Phlegm
Causes: Oedema of abdomen
Oedema
Oedema of abdomen
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Dampness
Causes: Oedema of abdomen
Oedema
Oedema of abdomen
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Herbal Formulas for Abdominal Edema
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address abdominal edema
Wu Ling San
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination,
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Qi transformation function
- Drains Dampness
- Clears edema
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Diuretic, clears Excess fluid and removes edema
- Tonifies the Spleen Qi
- Calms External Wind
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Ping Wei San
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Improves the Spleen's transportive function
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Wu Pi Yin
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Reduces edema, diuretic
- Regulates and strengthens Spleen Qi
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Yang and Qi of the Spleen and Kidneys
- Eliminates Dampness
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and warms Kidney Yang
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yu Gong San
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels water and
- Reduces edema
- Unblocks the bowels
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Zhou Che Wan
Addresses these abdominal edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Qi movement
- Harshly drives out Water and Heat Stagnation
Addresses These Abdominal Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of abdomen
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...