Bile Reflux Gastritis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different bile reflux gastritis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Bile reflux gastritis emerges when bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, flows into the stomach and esophagus, irritating the stomach lining. Unlike its counterpart, acid reflux, which involves the backwash of stomach acid, bile reflux involves the presence of bile. This condition can lead to discomfort, including heartburn, nausea, and, over time, can contribute to the inflammation of the stomach lining, known as gastritis. Bile reflux gastritis can significantly impact one's quality of life, causing persistent symptoms that often require medical attention to manage effectively.
In the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework, bile reflux gastritis is interpreted through the lens of imbalance and disharmony within the body's internal systems. TCM doesn't recognize bile reflux as a distinct condition but sees its symptoms as manifestations of underlying imbalances such as Qi Stagnation, Phlegm-Heat in the Gallbladder, or Liver and Gallbladder disharmony.
These imbalances disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Body Fluids, leading to the symptoms associated with bile reflux. Identifying and correcting these imbalances is crucial in TCM, aiming to restore harmony and alleviate the condition's manifestations.
TCM Patterns for Bile Reflux Gastritis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause bile reflux gastritis
Heat in Gall Bladder
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Wiry (Xian)
Recommended herbal formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Red swollen tongue with a sticky yellow coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Bile Reflux Gastritis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address bile reflux gastritis