Abdominal Heaviness in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different abdominal heaviness patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Abdominal heaviness, a term encapsulating various nuances of discomfort, refers to a sensation of weight and pressure in the abdominal region. It's more than just a temporary inconvenience;
it's a persistent feeling that can affect one's quality of life. This symptom, known within TCM to reflect underlying imbalances, is often accompanied by other digestive complaints or menstrual irregularities, highlighting its significance in diagnosing and treating internal disharmonies.
In the lens of TCM, abdominal heaviness is not merely a symptom but a clue to underlying disharmonies within the body's energetic system. TCM practitioners view this condition as indicative of Damp accumulation, or a manifestation of Phlegm.
It underscores the holistic approach of TCM, where symptoms are interconnected, pointing towards a pattern of imbalance rather than isolated issues. The diagnosis and treatment, therefore, aim at restoring harmony and balance, addressing not just the symptom but its root cause.
TCM Patterns for Abdominal Heaviness
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause abdominal heaviness
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua)
Swollen tongue with sticky coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Damp-Cold in the Bladder
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua), Slow (Chi)
White sticky coating on root
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua)
Swollen tongue with sticky coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua), Slow (Chi)
White sticky coating on root
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Abdominal Heaviness
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address abdominal heaviness