Delusions in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different delusions patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Delusions are false beliefs or misinterpretations of reality that are firmly held despite clear evidence to the contrary. These beliefs can be bizarre or entirely possible, yet they remain disconnected from the person’s actual experiences or the general consensus of reality.
Delusions are often a symptom of psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. In these cases, they can lead to significant distress and impair an individual's ability to function normally in daily life. Understanding and addressing delusions is crucial in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches to mental health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, delusions are seen as manifestations of imbalances within the body’s internal energies, often related to the Heart and the Mind (Shen). Unlike the Western medical perspective, which often focuses on neurological or psychological causes, TCM attributes delusions to patterns of disharmony that affect the flow of Qi and Blood, particularly in the Heart. Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is essential for effective treatment, as it guides the selection of appropriate therapies to restore balance and clear the mind.
TCM Patterns for Delusions
Blood Stasis
Causes: Delusions
Herbal Formulas for Delusions
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address delusions