Anorexia in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different anorexia patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Anorexia, medically referred to as anorexia nervosa, is a serious eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to extreme thinness.
It involves a distorted body image and a relentless pursuit of thinness, often resulting in severe health complications. Anorexia is not just about food; it's a complex condition intertwining psychological, social, and physical aspects, making its treatment multifaceted.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on anorexia, viewing it as a disharmony within the body’s natural energy systems. Unlike Western medicine, which primarily focuses on psychological factors and nutritional rehabilitation, TCM looks at anorexia as a symptom of imbalances in life force, or Qi, as well as disturbances in the functions of organs like the Spleen and Stomach.
TCM emphasizes restoring harmony and balance through a holistic approach, incorporating herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments.
TCM Patterns for Anorexia
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause anorexia
Recommended herbal formulas
Spleen Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu)
Pale or normal tongue with thin white coating. Possible swollen with tooth marks on sides and transverse cracks
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Anorexia
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address anorexia