Diarrhea in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different diarrhea patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Diarrhea is characterized by frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements, often an indication of digestive distress. This common condition can range from a mild, temporary state to a potentially life-threatening one if associated with severe dehydration.
Synonyms like loose stools underscore the nature of this ailment, with sub-symptoms including malodorous diarrhea and chronic diarrhea, highlighting the variety in presentation and underlying causes. Understanding diarrhea's implications is vital for addressing the discomfort it brings and preventing further health complications.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets diarrhea as a symptom of imbalance within the body's internal systems, particularly concerning the Spleen and Stomach's functions. Unlike Western perspectives that often target the symptom directly, TCM seeks to understand the root cause, attributing diarrhea to factors such as Qi Deficiency, Dampness invasion, or Yang Deficiency.
This holistic approach emphasizes restoring harmony and balance through natural remedies, diet adjustments, and acupuncture, offering a nuanced understanding of health that transcends mere symptom management.
TCM Patterns for Diarrhea
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools, Loose stools with foul smell
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.
Damp-Cold
Diarrhea
Along with: Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Feeling of heaviness
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Diarrhea
Along with: Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
Diarrhea
Along with: Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea
Damp-Heat
Loose stools
Along with: Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Edema, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
Loose stools
Along with: Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Loose stools
Along with: Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Loose stools
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Oedema
Loose stools
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Summer Heat with Dampness
Loose stools
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen
Loose stools with foul smell
Along with: Loss of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull headache, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Along with: Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Cold in the Uterus
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Cold invading the Large Intestine
Diarrhea
Along with: Abdominal pain, Chills, Abdominal cold sensation
Damp-Cold
Diarrhea
Along with: Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Feeling of heaviness
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
Diarrhea
Along with: Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea
Greater Yin stage
Diarrhea
Along with: Loss of appetite, Vomit, Abdominal fullness, Chills, Absence of thirst, Generalized fatigue
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
Diarrhea
Along with: Chills, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Frequent pale urination
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
Diarrhea
Along with: Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Edema, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness
Empty-Cold
Loose stools
Along with: Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea, Clear urination, Frequent urination
Exterior-Cold
Loose stools
Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Body pain, Stiff neck, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Chills
Large Intestine Cold
Loose stools
Along with: Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Loose stools, Diarrhea
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 Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath
Spleen Qi Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Loose stools
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
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Dislike of speaking, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste
Stomach Qi Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Morning fatigue
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Along with: Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Along with: Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Pale face, Loss of appetite, Belching
Spleen Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge, Loss of appetite, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Weak limbs
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Pale face, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
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.
Greater Yin stage
Diarrhea
Along with: Loss of appetite, Vomit, Abdominal fullness, Chills, Absence of thirst, Generalized fatigue
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
Loose stools, Diarrhea
Along with: Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Clear urination, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Depression, Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
Diarrhea
Along with: Chills, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Frequent pale urination
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Along with: Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation
Spleen Yang Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Loose stools
Along with: Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Frequent urination, Polyuria, Nocturia, White vaginal discharge
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools with foul smell, Loose stools
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.
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Diarrhea
Along with: Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness
Heat in Lessor Yang
Diarrhea, Loose stools with foul smell
Along with: Fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Abdominal pain, Sticky taste in the mouth, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal irritation, Upper abdominal burning pain, Tenesmus
Damp-Heat
Loose stools
Along with: Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
Loose stools
Along with: Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Loose stools
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen
Loose stools with foul smell
Along with: Loss of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull headache, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Loose stools
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
Loose stools
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
Spleen and Heart Blood Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Generalized fatigue, Muscle weakness, Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Scanty menstruation
Spleen Blood Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Pale face, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Loose stools
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."
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Loose stools
Along with: Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness
Oedema
Loose stools
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Loose stools
Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss
Qi Sinking
Weakened lifting force causing downward bearing sensations, organ prolapse, and inability to hold things in their proper position
Causes: Loose stools, Chronic diarrhoea
Qi Sinking represents a progression from Spleen Qi deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where the spleen's essential lifting function fails, causing various downward symptoms and organ displacement.
Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking
Loose stools, Chronic diarrhoea
Along with: Uterine prolapse, Prolapsed bladder, Stomach prolapse, Nephroptosis, Anus prolapse, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Hemorrhoids, Chronic diarrhea, Frequent and urgent urination, Urinary incontinence, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Intestines prolapse, Vaginal prolapse
Spleen Qi Sinking
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Large Intestine collapse
Chronic diarrhoea
Along with: Chronic diarrhea, Anus prolapse, Hemorrhoids, Generalized fatigue, Cold extremities, Loss of appetite, Mental exhaustion, Craving for hot beverages
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools
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.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Diarrhea
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, Anxiety, Anger, Melasma
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Loose stools
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain
Summer Heat
Intense summer heat that rapidly depletes both energy and fluids
Causes: Diarrhea, Loose stools
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
Diarrhea
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort, Irritability, Thirst
Summer Heat with Dampness
Loose stools
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Qi Rebellion
Qi flowing against its natural direction, typically surging upward when it should descend
Causes: Diarrhea
Qi Rebellion represents a fundamental disruption in the body's energy flow, where qi moves against its proper direction - like water flowing uphill or smoke sinking downward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ has a natural directional flow for its qi, and when this flow reverses, it creates a cascade of symptoms that shoot upward through the body.
Rebellious Qi
Diarrhea
Along with: Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Yang Collapse
Sudden, catastrophic loss of yang energy causing systemic shutdown with cold sweating, frozen extremities, and consciousness fading
Causes: Loose stools
Yang Collapse represents the most critical yang deficiency pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine - a life-threatening condition where the body's yang energy suddenly and massively depletes, leading to systemic functional failure.
Collapse of Yang
Loose stools
Along with: Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst, Urinary or fecal incontinence, Frequent urination, Diarrhea
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Loose stools
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.
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Loose stools
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction
Yin Excess
Pathological accumulation of cold, heavy substances causing stagnation, obstruction, and suppression of yang energy with internal cold manifestations
Causes: Loose stools
Yin Excess represents patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine where yin-natured pathological substances - cold, phlegm, dampness, and fluids - accumulate excessively in the body, overwhelming yang energy and causing obstruction, stagnation, and cold manifestations throughout the system.
Yin Excess
Loose stools
Along with: Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea, Excessive vaginal discharge, Loss of appetite, Pain relieved by heat, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale urine
Herbal Formulas for Diarrhea
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address diarrhea
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
- Raises sunken Yang
- Lifts Sunken Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat from deficiency (sweet-warm method)
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath...
Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Chronic diarrhoea
Accompanying symptoms:
Uterine prolapse, Prolapsed bladder, Stomach prolapse, Nephroptosis, Anus prolapse, Bearing down sensation in abdomen...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Spleen Qi Sinking
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Large Intestine collapse
How it manifests:
Chronic diarrhoea
Accompanying symptoms:
Chronic diarrhea, Anus prolapse, Hemorrhoids, Generalized fatigue, Cold extremities, Loss of appetite...
Gui Pi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Tonifies Heart Qi
- Calms the Spirit
- Restores the Spleen's Governance of Blood
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Pale face...
Spleen and Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety...
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs...
Spleen Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea...
Si Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Promotes transportation and transformation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Morning fatigue
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Dries Dampness
- Resolves Phlegm
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome...
Wu Ling San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
- Releases the Exterior
- Supplements Earth to Control Water
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome...
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Ping Wei San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Moves Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness
- Transforms Dampness and Resolves Turbidity
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea...
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Stops Diarrhea
- Tonifies Lung Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Yi Huang Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Secures the Kidneys and Stops Vaginal Discharge
- Clears Heat and Drains Dampness
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Secures the Lower Burner
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Damp-Heat
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms Yang and Disperses Cold
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Transforms Water-Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema...
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Promotes Qi transformation
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Promotes Urination
- Supplements Yin and Benefits Yang
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ban Liu Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys and expels Cold
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Purges Cold Accumulation
- Descends Qi
- Transforms Turbidity
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood and Softens the Liver
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Promotes Urination
- Relieves Abdominal Pain
- Calms the Fetus
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink...
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs...
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Warms the Channels and Stops Bleeding
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Apathy, Dislike of speaking, Spontaneous sweat...
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema...
Li Zhong Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Disperses Cold
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Dries Dampness
- Restores the ascending and descending functions of the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Greater Yin stage
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Vomit, Abdominal fullness, Chills, Absence of thirst, Generalized fatigue
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Lian Po Yin
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and Drains Dampness
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Dries Dampness
- Stops Vomiting
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen
How it manifests:
Loose stools with foul smell
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning...
Liang Fu Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold invading the Large Intestine
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain, Chills, Abdominal cold sensation
Large Intestine Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms Yang and Transforms Fluid Retention
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Subdues Rushing Qi (Ben Tun)
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Strengthens the Spleen
- Raises sunken Yang
- Clears Heat and Drains Dampness
- Dispels Wind-Dampness
- Regulates the Qi Dynamic
- Protects the Stomach
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Tao Hua Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Astringes the Intestines and Stops Diarrhea
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Stops Dysentery
- Stops Bleeding
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold invading the Large Intestine
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain, Chills, Abdominal cold sensation
Large Intestine Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Clear urination, Cold extremities
Wan Dai Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Astringes to Stop Vaginal Discharge
- Raises Clear Yang
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Wei Ling Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
- Transforms Water-Dampness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Cold
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain...
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Wu Pi Yin
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema
- Transforms Dampness and Moves Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Descends Lung Qi to open the water pathways
- Moves Qi and Relieves Distension
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Xiang Ru San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior and Resolves Summerheat
- Disperses Cold
- Transforms Dampness
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit...
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Descends Qi
- Resolves Phlegm
- Tonifies Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Eliminates Focal Distention
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
You Gui Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Warms the Ming Men Fire
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Sinews and Bones
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Regulates menstruation
- Nourishes the Heart and Liver
- Strengthens the Spleen
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Disperses clumping and eliminates focal distention
- Harmonizes Cold and Heat
- Opens with acrid and descends with bitter
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Drains Dampness
- Separates the Clear from the Turbid
- Transforms Turbidity
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome...
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Da Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Tonifies Qi
- Descends Qi
- Disperses Cold
- Alleviates Pain
- Stops Vomiting
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Du Shen Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Greatly Tonifies the Source Qi
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Stabilizes the Exterior and Rescues Collapse
- Generates Fluids
- Calms the Spirit
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Chronic diarrhoea
Accompanying symptoms:
Uterine prolapse, Prolapsed bladder, Stomach prolapse, Nephroptosis, Anus prolapse, Bearing down sensation in abdomen...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies Kidney Essence
- Drains Ministerial Fire
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Nourishes Blood
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and consolidates the Exterior
- Dispels Wind-Dampness
- Promotes Urination and Reduces Edema
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Fei Er Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Parasites
- Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Stomach Heat
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Ge Hua Jie Cheng San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Separates and reduces alcohol-Dampness
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Relieves Alcohol Toxicity
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Summer-Heat
- Clears Heat
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Transforms Qi and facilitates the resolution of Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Gui Zhi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Muscle Layer
- Harmonizes the Nutritive and Defensive Qi
- Disperses Wind-Cold
- Warms the Middle and harmonizes the Spleen and Stomach
- Harmonizes Yin and Yang
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Exterior-Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Body pain, Stiff neck, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst...
Huan Shao Dan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Nourishes the Heart and Calms the Spirit
- Nourishes Yin and Blood
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Tonifies Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
- Relaxes Spasms and Relieves Urgency
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Warms Yang and Disperses Cold
- Harmonizes the Nutritive and Defensive Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating...
Huang Qin Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Stops Diarrhea
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Relieves Abdominal Pain
- Nourishes Yin and Blood
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Heat in Lessor Yang
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools with foul smell
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Abdominal pain, Sticky taste in the mouth, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal irritation...
Huang Tu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Nourishes Blood and stops bleeding
- Restores the Spleen's Governance of Blood
- Stops Bleeding
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Hui Yang Jiu Ji Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Tonifies Qi and revives the pulse
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Opens the Orifices and Revives Consciousness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Aromatically Transforms Dampness
- Disperses Wind-Cold from the Exterior
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stops Diarrhea
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Ji Chuan Jian
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys and Secures Essence
- Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels
- Supplements Blood and lubricates dryness
- Raises Clear Yang and Descends Turbid Yin
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Clears Heat from the Liver and Blood
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Hiccup
- Clears Stomach Heat
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Tonifies Qi
- Stops Vomiting
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Liu Yi San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Summer-Heat
- Drains Dampness
- Promotes Urination
- Clears Heat from the Three Burners
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Summer-Heat
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort...
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains excess Fire from the Liver and Gallbladder
- Clears Damp-Heat from the Lower Burner
- Clears Heat from the Liver channel
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Nourishes Blood and Yin to prevent damage from bitter cold
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Ma Huang Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Induces Sweating and Releases the Exterior
- Descends Lung Qi and Calms Wheezing
- Disperses Wind-Cold
- Warms and Unblocks Yang
- Unblocks the Channels and Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Exterior-Cold
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Aversion to cold, Fever, Body pain, Stiff neck, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Relaxes Spasms and Relieves Urgency
- Nourishes Yin and Generates Fluids
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Nourishes Blood and moistens the sinews
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs...
Shao Yao Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and dries Dampness
- Invigorates Blood and Moves Qi
- Resolves Toxicity
- Relieves Abdominal Pain
- Stops Dysentery
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning...
Shen Fu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Greatly Tonifies the Source Qi
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Sheng Yu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Blood
- Restores the Spleen's Governance of Blood
- Nourishes Yin
- Generates Fluids
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Si Ni San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Transmits Yang and unblocks counterflow
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Si Ni Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse
- Warms the Interior and Dispels Cold
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies Heart and Kidney Yang
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Lesser Yin Cold Transformation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Absence of thirst, Desire to lie down curled up, Apathy, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities...
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Descends Qi and calms wheezing
- Resolves Phlegm and Stops Cough
- Disperses Cold and Transforms Phlegm
- Aids the Kidneys in Grasping Qi
- Guides Fire Back to Its Source
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Rebellious Qi
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma
Tu Si Zi Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Strengthens the Lower Back and Knees
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Secures Essence and Stops Enuresis
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Wen Jing Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Nourishes Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Regulates menstruation
- Tonifies Qi
- Nourishes Yin and Clears Deficiency Heat
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wen Pi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Purges Cold Accumulation
- Tonifies Qi
- Disperses Cold
- Promotes Bowel Movement
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
- Drains Dampness
- Tonifies Spleen Qi
- Assists Yang
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Benefits Essence and Fills the Marrow
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Regulates and facilitates Kidney Qi
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Warms the Middle Burner
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Diarrhea, Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath...
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Drains Dampness
- Moves Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the Shaoyang
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Supports the Upright and Dispels Pathogens
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Relaxes Spasms and Relieves Urgency
- Harmonizes Yin and Yang
- Nourishes the Spleen and Stomach
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Small Intestine Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Borborygmi, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure or eating, Craving for hot beverages, Pale and abudant urination, Cold extremities
Xiao Yao San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Nourishes Blood and Softens the Liver
- Strengthens the Spleen and Harmonizes the Middle
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Nourishes and invigorates Blood
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Promotes Menstruation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Yi Guan Jian
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Nourishes Blood and Softens the Liver
- Generates Fluids
- Courses the Liver and Drains Heat
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Yu Gong San
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Water and Reduces Edema
- Moves Qi and Dissipates Nodules
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Yu Lin Zhu
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Tonifies the Liver
- Secures the Chong and Ren Vessels
- Regulates menstruation
- Warms the Uterus and Promotes Fertility
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Loose stools, Persistent diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yue Ju Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Resolves the Six Stagnations (Liu Yu)
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Clears Heat and Drains Fire
- Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Diarrhea
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia...
Zhou Che Wan
Addresses these diarrhea patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Water and Reduces Edema
- Moves Qi
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Promotes Bowel and Urinary Movement
Addresses These Diarrhea Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Loose stools
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Wu Mei Wan
Traditional formula for diarrhea
Main Actions
- Warms the organs and calms roundworms
- Harmonizes Cold and Heat
- Soothes the Liver and regulates the middle
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Astringes the Intestines and Stops Diarrhea
Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
Traditional formula for diarrhea
Main Actions
- Harmonizes Yin and Yang
- Calms the Spirit and Relieves Restlessness
- Secures Essence and Stops Leakage
- Tonifies Heart and Kidney Yang
- Harmonizes the Nutritive and Defensive Qi
- Subdues Floating Yang