Anxiety in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different anxiety patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Anxiety is a complex emotional and physiological response characterized by persistent feelings of worry, unease, or dread. It often involves anticipation of future threats or negative outcomes, even in the absence of immediate danger. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, persistent or excessive anxiety can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. Symptoms may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and physical manifestations such as increased heart rate or sweating. Anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), represent more severe and chronic forms of anxiety that may require professional intervention.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views anxiety as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's energy systems, particularly involving the Heart, Liver, and Kidney. Unlike Western medicine's focus on neurotransmitters and brain function, TCM considers anxiety a result of disrupted Qi flow and disharmony among various organs.
In TCM, anxiety can stem from multiple patterns of disharmony, each requiring a unique treatment approach. This individualized perspective emphasizes the importance of identifying the specific underlying pattern before initiating treatment, as addressing the root cause is crucial for restoring balance and alleviating symptoms.
TCM Patterns for Anxiety
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Anxiety
Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.
Heat in the Blood
Anxiety
Along with: Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones
Half Exterior Half Interior
Anxiety
Along with: Chest distension, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dry cough, Restlessness, Vomit, Loss of appetite, Dizziness, Blurry vision
Heart Fire blazing
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat, Insomnia, Flushed face, Hematuria, Dark urine, Bitter taste in the mouth
Heat in Uterus Blood
Anxiety
Along with: Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Dark urine, Constipation
Heat invading the Channels joints and muscles
Anxiety
Along with: Arthralgia, Joints red and hot, Fever, Thirst, Wind phobia, Swollen joints, Joint stiffness
Pericardium Fire
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Anxiety
Along with: Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
Anxiety
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain, Knee pain, Night sweats, Constipation, Menopausal hot flashes
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat
Anxiety
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum, Hypertension
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Anxiety, Slightly anxiety
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Dislike of speaking, Loss of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness
Heart Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Irritability, Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Dizziness
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Spleen and Heart Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Generalized fatigue, Muscle weakness, Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Scanty menstruation
Blood Deficiency
Slightly anxiety
Along with: Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Pale face, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips, Dizziness
Yin Deficiency
Depletion of cooling, moistening fluids causing dryness, false heat rising, and restless agitation throughout the body
Causes: Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Yin Deficiency represents a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's yin fluids - blood, essence, and body fluids - become depleted, losing their ability to cool, moisten, and anchor the yang energy, resulting in relative hyperactivity of yang and internal heat manifestations.
Heart Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones
Kidney Yin Deficiency
Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Along with: Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Irritability, Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Dizziness
Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry mouth and throat at night, Nocturnal emission, Pain relieved by pressure and cold, Preference for sipping
Heart and Kidney Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory, Night sweats, Tinnitus, Dizziness, Vivid dreaming, Restlessness, Nocturnal emission
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
Anxiety
Along with: Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain, Knee pain, Night sweats, Constipation, Menopausal hot flashes
Mind Disturbance
Disruption of consciousness, mental clarity, and emotional equilibrium causing restlessness, confusion, or withdrawal
Causes: Anxiety
Mind Disturbance represents a broad category of patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine involving disruptions to consciousness, mental clarity, emotional stability, and cognitive function. These patterns affect the Shen (spirit/consciousness), which according to classical texts resides in the Heart and is distributed among the five organs.
Heart Fire blazing
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat, Insomnia, Flushed face, Hematuria, Dark urine, Bitter taste in the mouth
Pericardium Fire
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Anxiety
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Anxiety
Along with: Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat
Anxiety
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum, Hypertension
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Anxiety
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Large Intestine Qi Stagnation
Anxiety
Along with: Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Bitty stools
Liver Qi Stagnation
Anxiety
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anger, Melasma
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat
Anxiety
Along with: Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Slight thirst, Copious thick yellow sputum, Hypertension
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Anxiety
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Dislike of speaking, Loss of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Pale face, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips, Dizziness
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Anxiety
Blood Stasis represents blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels, either moving too slowly, pooling in certain areas, or congealing into clots. It's one of the most important pathological conditions in Traditional Chinese Medicine and can be both a result of disease and a cause of further illness.
Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
Anxiety
Along with: Irregular periods, Brown vaginal discharge, Dark menstrual clots, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Lower abdominal pain, Umbilical pain, Breast engorgement, Breast pain
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Anxiety
Yang Deficiency represents a fundamental weakness of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as an inability to warm the body, transform substances, and maintain normal physiological activities, resulting in various cold-type symptoms and functional decline.
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys caused by Kidney Yang Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Irritability, Restlessness, Severe heart palpitations, Cold sensation in lower limbs, Insomnia, Mental exhaustion, Dysautonomia, Hypertension
Yang Excess
Excessive yang energy that generates heat, agitation, and hyperactivity throughout the body systems
Causes: Anxiety
Yang Excess represents pathological hyperactivity of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as excessive heat, inflammation, and overstimulation that disrupts the normal balance between yin and yang, causing various acute and intense symptoms.
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
Anxiety
Along with: Irritability, Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Dizziness
Summer Heat
Intense summer heat that rapidly depletes both energy and fluids
Causes: Anxiety
Summer-Heat (暑 Shǔ) is a unique pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that only occurs during summer. Unlike other disease-causing factors in TCM that can arise internally or externally, Summer-Heat always comes from the environment - specifically from exposure to intense summer heat and humidity.
Summer Heat with Dampness
Anxiety
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Anxiety
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Summer Heat with Dampness
Anxiety
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Herbal Formulas for Anxiety
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address anxiety
Gui Pi Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and nourish Qi and Blood
- Tonifies Heart and Spleen
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Pale face, Poor memory...
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled...
Spleen and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled...
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Nourishes the Blood
- Clears Heat
- Calms the Mind
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation...
Heart and Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory, Night sweats, Tinnitus, Dizziness...
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain...
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Qi Stagnation in Gallbladder and Stomach with Phlegm Heat
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea or vomiting, Vertigo, Vivid dreaming, Palpitations, Excessive hunger, Focal distention of the chest...
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the yin and nourishes the Kidneys
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Tinnitus, Insomnia, Palpitations, Poor memory, Lower back pain...
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine...
Suan Zao Ren Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Blood
- Calms the Mind and eliminates irritability
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation...
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Stagnant Liver Qi and Blood
- Alleviates pain
- Harmonizes Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Large Intestine Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Bitty stools
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Harmonizes the middle burner
- Relaxes tension
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Heart Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Night sweats, Feeling of uneasiness, Feeling of heat, Heat sensation in palms, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Gu Jing Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Clears Heat
- Stops bleeding
- Stabilizes the menses
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Heat in Uterus Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face...
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Hot Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder Heat
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Liver and Spleen Qi Stagnation
- Tonifies Spleen
- Clears Deficient Heat
- Nourishes the blood
- Clears Liver Fire from Stagnant Liver Qi
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Jiao Tai Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores the functional communication between the Heart and the Kidneys
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart and Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory, Night sweats, Tinnitus, Dizziness...
Disharmony between Heart and Kidneys caused by Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Irritability, Restlessness, Severe heart palpitations, Cold sensation in lower limbs, Insomnia, Mental exhaustion...
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Empty Heat
- Tonifies the Kidney Yin
- Stops bleeding
- Supplies Body Fluids
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Heat in Uterus Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face...
Shen Qi Si Wu Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
- Tonifies Qi
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Si Wu Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Slightly anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Xie Xin Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Fire
- Resolves Toxicity
- Dries Dampness
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Fire blazing
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat...
Pericardium Fire
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers...
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin and Blood
- Sedates the Heart and calms the Mind
- Calms the Liver
- Anchors the yang
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled...
Liver Yang Rising with Blood and Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Irritability, Insomnia, Occasional palpitations, Dizziness
Zi Xue Dan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Controls spasms and convulsions
- Extinguishes Wind
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Fire blazing
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat...
Pericardium Fire
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers...
Zuo Gui Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Strengthens the Kidneys
- Fills the Essence
- Augments the marrow
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine...
Bai He Di Huang Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Moistens the Lungs
- Enriches the Body Fluids
- Clears Heat and cools the Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Heart Qi
- Calms the Mind and clear anxiety
- Nourish the Heart Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Ci Zhu Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Heavily sedates and calms the Mind
- Pacifies Rising Yang
- Improves the vision and hearing
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart and Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory, Night sweats, Tinnitus, Dizziness...
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi
- Generates Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Slightly anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Drains Fire
- Stabilizes the Exterior
- Stops sweating
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation...
Di Gu Pi Yin
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Damp and dispels Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner (Stomach and Spleen)
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Summerheat
- Clears Heat
- Transforms Qi
- Removes Dampness
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood
- Transforms Blood Stasis
- Softens lumps
- Reduces fixed abdominal pain
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Irregular periods, Brown vaginal discharge, Dark menstrual clots, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia...
Hua Ban Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Cools the Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Huai Jiao Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears heat from the Intestines
- Stops bleeding
- Disperses wind
- Regulates Qi
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in Uterus Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face...
Huang Lian E Jiao Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Causes Fire to descend
- Eliminates irritability
- Calms the spirit
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation...
Hui Chun Dan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Arrests spasms and convulsions
- Clears Heat and transforms Phlegm
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Transforms Dampness
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Liang Di Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Cools Blood
- Stop bleeding
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Liang Ge San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Fire
- Unblocks the bowels by clearing the Upper Burner
- Draining the Middle Burner
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Fire blazing
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat...
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
- Calms wheezing by directing rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Mu Li San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Inhibits sweating
- Stabilizes the exterior
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine...
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Clears Dampness
- Invigorates the Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Kidney Yin and Essence
- Nourishes the Liver Blood
- Beautifies hair
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation...
Qing Jing San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Blood-Heat
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Transforms Phlegm
- Directs Rebellious Qi downwards
- Stops coughing
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Unblocks the stool
- Benefits the throat
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Heart
- Augments the Qi and Yin
- Stops turbid painful urinary dribbling
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Fire blazing
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Restlessness, Feeling of heat...
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi
- Augments the Kidneys
- Stops coughing
- Arrests wheezing
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Warms Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen and Lungs
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Sheng Tie Luo Yin
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Sedates the Heart
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Fire
- Calms the Mind
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Sheng Yu Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Preserves the Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Easily startled...
Shi Hui San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Cools the Blood and
- Stops bleeding
- Clears Heat and drains Fire
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Qi
- Warms and tonifies Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats severe fevers and Heat in the Blood system
- Removes Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat in the Blood
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia...
Xiang Ru San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Scatters Cold
- Transforms Dampness
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats the Lesser Yang Channels (Gallbladder and Triple Warmer)
- Regulates the Liver and Spleen functions
- Addresses combined Yin-Yang symptoms of External and Internal, Excess and Deficiency, and Hot and Cold
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Half Exterior Half Interior
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dry cough, Restlessness, Vomit, Loss of appetite...
Xiao Yao San
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the function of Liver and Spleen
- Relieves Liver Qi stagnation
- Nourishes the Blood
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Xuan Bi Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears and resolves Damp-Heat
- Unblocks the meridians
- Disbands painful obstruction
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heat invading the Channels joints and muscles
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Arthralgia, Joints red and hot, Fever, Thirst, Wind phobia, Swollen joints...
Yi Guan Jian
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the Yin
- Spreads the Liver Qi
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Yue Ju Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Releases all types of Stagnation (Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Fire, Food and Dampness)
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Generates Body Fluids
- Nourishes the Yin
- Unblocks the bowels
- Drains Heat
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine...
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Anchors the Heart and calms the Mind
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Zhi Bao Dan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Resolves toxicity
- Transforms Phlegm
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
How it manifests:
Anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia...
Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan
Addresses these anxiety patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yin
- Drains Fire
Addresses These Anxiety Pattern Variations
Kidney Yin Deficiency
How it manifests:
Anxiety, Evening anxiety
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation...
Ding Zhi Wan
Traditional formula for anxiety
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Heart Qi
- Pacifies timidity
- Calms the Mind
Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
Traditional formula for anxiety
Main Actions
- Unblocks the three Yang warps
- Sedates and calms the Spirit
Gun Tan Wan
Traditional formula for anxiety
Main Actions
- Drains Fire and Phlegm