Edema in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different edema patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Edema, known in layman's terms as fluid retention, swelling, or puffiness, manifests as an accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to noticeable swelling in various body parts. This condition can present in specific areas, such as the ankles (Ankle Edema), or affect the body more generally, as seen in conditions like anasarca (generalized body swelling). Other forms include Peripheral Edema, Lip Edema, and Facial Edema, each with its unique characteristics and underlying causes, ranging from systemic diseases to localized injuries or infections.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on edema, attributing its cause to imbalances within the body's energy systems, particularly concerning the Spleen, Kidney, and the harmony between Qi and Blood. Unlike the Western medical approach, which often focuses on the symptom, TCM seeks to identify and treat the root cause of edema, emphasizing the importance of diagnosing the specific pattern of disharmony leading to fluid accumulation.
TCM Patterns for Edema
Dampness
Causes: Edema, Oedema, Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet, Swollen limbs, Oedema especially of the legs and ankles, Swelling of the feet
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Edema
Along with: Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Edema, Oedema
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
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Damp-Phlegm
Swollen limbs
Along with: Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Obesity, Abdominal fat
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
Oedema especially of the legs and ankles
Along with: Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Coughing, Asthma
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Oedema of face
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Swelling of the feet
Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera
Wind-Damp
Edema
Along with: Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Ascites, Rheumatic heart disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Acute glomerulonephritis, Lumbar disc disease
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Edema
Along with: Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia
Phlegm
Causes: Edema, Oedema, Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet, Superficial edema in the extremities, Swollen limbs
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Edema, Oedema
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
Phlegm
Oedema
Along with: Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Phlegm-Fluids
Oedema
Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Edema, Chest distension
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Oedema
Along with: Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Oedema
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Along with: Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Superficial edema in the extremities, Swollen limbs
Along with: Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Urinary dysfunction
Damp-Phlegm
Swollen limbs
Along with: Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Obesity, Abdominal fat
Yang Deficiency
Causes: Edema, Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities, Oedema especially of the legs and ankles, Oedema of limbs, Oedema of face
Spleen Yang Deficiency
Edema
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
Edema
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
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
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
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
Oedema of legs
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, Diarrhea, Depression, Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
Oedema especially of the legs and ankles
Along with: Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Coughing, Asthma
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
Edema
Along with: Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit, Congestive heart failure
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
Oedema of limbs, Oedema of face
Along with: Pale face, Facial edema, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus
Qi Deficiency
Causes: Edema
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Edema
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 Deficiency
Edema
Along with: Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge, Loss of appetite, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Weak limbs
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Edema
Along with: Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia
Cold
Causes: Edema, Oedema of face
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Edema
Along with: Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Oedema of face
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Wind
Causes: Oedema of face, Edema
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
Oedema of face
Along with: Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Aversion to cold, Facial edema
Wind-Damp
Edema
Along with: Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Ascites, Rheumatic heart disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Acute glomerulonephritis, Lumbar disc disease
Heat
Causes: Swellings, Swelling of the feet
Toxic-Heat
Swellings
Along with: Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule, Red skin eruptions, Sore throat, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Swelling of the feet
Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera
Blood Deficiency
Causes: Edema
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Edema
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
Yin Excess
Causes: Edema
Yin Excess
Edema
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
Qi Stagnation
Causes: Swelling of the feet
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Swelling of the feet
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Blood Stasis
Causes: Swelling of the feet
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Swelling of the feet
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Herbal Formulas for Edema
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address edema
Wu Ling San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination,
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Qi transformation function
- Drains Dampness
- Clears edema
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome...
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of limbs, Oedema of face
Accompanying symptoms:
Pale face, Facial edema, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea...
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
How it manifests:
Oedema especially of the legs and ankles
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination...
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Edema, Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Xiao Qing Long Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior
- Transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Warms the Lungs
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
How it manifests:
Superficial edema in the extremities, Swollen limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Urinary dysfunction
Wind-Cold-Water invading the Lungs
How it manifests:
Oedema of face
Accompanying symptoms:
Ocular swelling, Shiny complexion, Scanty clear urination, Fever, Coughing, Shortness of breath...
Ping Wei San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness
- Improves the Spleen's transportive function
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Yang and Qi of the Spleen and Kidneys
- Eliminates Dampness
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
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:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Diarrhea...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Wu Pi Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Reduces edema, diuretic
- Regulates and strengthens Spleen Qi
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Yin Excess
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Diuretic, clears Excess fluid and removes edema
- Tonifies the Spleen Qi
- Calms External Wind
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Wind-Damp
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Urinary dysfunction, Ascites, Rheumatic heart disease, Rheumatoid arthritis...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and warms Kidney Yang
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Damp-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Swollen limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yi Huang Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Dries Dampness
- Clears Heat
- Stops vaginal discharge
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Warms Yang
- Promotes water transformation
- Reduces water retention
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing
How it manifests:
Oedema especially of the legs and ankles
Accompanying symptoms:
Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination...
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Damp and dispels Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner (Stomach and Spleen)
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Damp-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Swollen limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Spreads the Liver Qi
- Unblocks the channels
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Invigorates the Blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Resolves Damp-Phlegm
- Nourishes Blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Edema, Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and transforms Phlegm-Fluids
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Unblocks painful obstruction
- Relieves pain
- Invigorate Qi
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
- Unblock Channels
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Sheng Yu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Preserves the Blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations...
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Spleen and Stomach Qi
- Removes Dampness
- Moves Qi
- Alleviates pain
- Strengthens the Spleen and Harmonizes the Stomach,
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Edema, Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Damp-Phlegm
How it manifests:
Swollen limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Cold and warm the menstruation Blood
- Stops pain
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood stagnation
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Resolves Dampness and Phlegm
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Edema, Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Eliminates Blood Stagnation below the diaphragm
- Stops pain
- Promotes Qi movement
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Yu Gong San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels water and
- Reduces edema
- Unblocks the bowels
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Stagnant Liver Qi and Blood
- Alleviates pain
- Harmonizes Blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Zhou Che Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Qi movement
- Harshly drives out Water and Heat Stagnation
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Oedema
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Oedema of face, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema...
Shi Xiao San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
- Eases pain
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Yin Chen Hao Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears heat
- Resolves dampness
- Reduces jaundice
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine...
Qi Li San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the blood and removes Blood Stagnation
- Invigorates Qi
- Reduces swelling and pain
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Dan Shen Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood and removes Blood Stagnation
- Promote Qi movement
- Relieves pain
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Guo Qi Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the menses
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Nourishes the blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Blood and regulates the Liver
- Moves Qi and Blood in the lower abdomen
- Stops pain
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Swelling of the feet
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Wan Dai Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle Burner
- Removes Dampness
- Stops vaginal discharge
- Strengthens the Spleen
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Sticky vaginal discharge, Generalized fatigue, Depression, Cold extremities, Diarrhea, White vaginal discharge...
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yang
- Warms the Kidneys and lower extremities
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yue Ju Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Releases all types of Stagnation (Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Fire, Food and Dampness)
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Yin Qiao San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind Heat
- Clears Heat
- Resolves Toxicity
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Huan Shao Dan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Spleen, Heart and Kidneys
- Nourishes Yin and Blood
- Augments Qi
- Tonifies Yang
- Promotes Longevity
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of legs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder
- Regulates Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Sang Ju Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind
- Stops coughing by invigorating Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Huang Tu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Nourishes the Blood
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the flow of Qi,
- Clears Phlegm
- Treats esophageal spasm
- Descends Rebellious Qi
- Dissipates clumps
- Relieves Stagnation
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Bai Hu Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Qi-level Heat
- Drains Stomach Fire
- Generates fluids
- Alleviates thirst
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wen Pi Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Spleen Yang
- Clears Cold Evil
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs
- Transforms congested Fluids
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
How it manifests:
Oedema
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and Fire from the Liver and Gallbladder
- Clears and drains Damp-Heat from the Lower Burner
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
You Gui Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Kidney Yang
- Replenishes the Essence
- Tonifies the Blood
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Da Qing Long Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes sweating
- Releases the Exterior
- Clears Interior Heat
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
How it manifests:
Superficial edema in the extremities, Swollen limbs
Accompanying symptoms:
Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Urinary dysfunction
Qing Ying Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears the Nutritive level Heat
- Relieves Fire Toxin
- Removes Heat
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Ban Liu Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Fortifies the Fire at the Gate of Vitality
- Expels Cold
- Unblocks the Yang
- Drains Turbidity
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Edema
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Treats severe fevers and Heat in the Blood system
- Removes Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Li Zhong Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of legs
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Drains Fire
- Resolves Toxin
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and tonifies Yang of the Kidneys
- Clears Empty Heat
- Regulates the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Xin Yi Qing Fei Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Spreads Lung Qi
- Clears Heat
- Unblocks the orifices (specifically the nose)
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Strengthens the Essence
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Resolves Dampness and transforms turbidity
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Tu Si Zi Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Prevents abnormal leakage such as urinary incontinence or seminal emissions
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Shi Wei Bai Du San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Dispels Wind and transforms Dampness
- Clears Toxic Heat
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Ji Chuan Jian
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Nourishes the Blood
- Strengthens the Essence
- Moistens the Intestines
- Unblocks bowels
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and resolves Toxicity
- Reduces swelling
- Induces ulceration
- Moves the Blood and dispels stasis
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Yu Lin Zhu
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Consolidates the Penetrating and Directing Vessel (Chong Mai, Ren Mai)
- Facilitating pregnancy
- Promotes Blood circulation and regulates menstruation
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Oedema of ankles, Oedema of legs, Edema of the lower extremities
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Zi Dang Gao
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and cools the Blood
- Resolves toxicity
- Moistens Dryness
- Relieves pain and itching
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Er Qing Gao
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Disperses swelling
- Relieves pain
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Bing Peng San
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Dispels putrescence
- Reduces swellings and relieves pain
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Toxic-Heat
- Clears Wind-Heat
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Yin Qiao Jie Du Wan
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clear Heat by releasing the Exterior
- Clears the Toxic-Heat
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...
Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin
Addresses these edema patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Resolves Toxicity
- Cools the Blood
- Reduces swelling
Addresses These Edema Pattern Variations
Toxic-Heat
How it manifests:
Swellings
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule...