Jaundice in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different jaundice patterns according to TCM theory
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Jaundice, also known as icterus, is a medical condition marked by a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and the whites of the eyes. This symptom arises from elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream, which can result from various underlying causes such as liver diseases, blockages of the bile duct, or hemolysis. Jaundice can manifest in different forms, including damp heat jaundice, newborn jaundice, and acute jaundice, each presenting unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. The condition is not only a sign of compromised liver function but also a clue to broader systemic issues.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinctive perspective on jaundice, viewing it as an external manifestation of internal disharmony. Unlike the Western approach that largely focuses on physiological dysfunction, TCM interprets jaundice through patterns of disharmony such as Dampness, Heat, and Qi Stagnation.
This holistic framework underscores the importance of identifying the specific pattern affecting the individual to effectively address the root cause of jaundice. TCM's approach highlights the interconnectedness of the body's systems and the external environment, aiming to restore balance and health through personalized treatment plans.
TCM Patterns for Jaundice
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause jaundice
Damp-Heat in the Liver
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Wiry (Xian)
Red body with redder sides sticky yellow coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Dampness in the Gallbladder
Diagnostic signs
Slippery (Hua), Wiry (Xian)
Thick sticky white coating, either bilateral in two strips or unilateral
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Wiry (Xian)
Red body with redder sides sticky yellow coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Jaundice
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address jaundice