Breast Pain in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different breast pain patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Breast pain, also referred to medically as mastalgia, involves discomfort or pain in one or both breasts. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe and can vary in its frequency and duration. The condition is not uncommon and can be influenced by various factors including hormonal changes, which often relate to menstrual cycles, or it might be associated with certain medical conditions or medications. Breast pain alone is generally not a sign of breast cancer; however, persistent pain warrants medical evaluation.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches breast pain as a symptom indicative of underlying imbalances within the body’s energetic system. Unlike Western medicine that often focuses on localized treatment, TCM considers breast pain a reflection of systemic issues, particularly involving Qi (vital energy) and Blood flow.
The philosophy of TCM holds that effective treatment requires a thorough understanding of the root cause of the pain, identified through a detailed assessment of the body’s patterns of disharmony. This holistic approach aims to restore balance and ensure the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.
TCM Patterns for Breast Pain
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause breast pain
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Deep (Chen), Fine (Xi)
Purple tongue with dark spots
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Normal or slightly red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Deep (Chen), Fine (Xi)
Purple tongue with dark spots
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Wiry (Xian)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Floating (Fu), Slippery (Hua)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Breast Pain
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address breast pain