Leg Edema in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different leg edema patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Leg edema is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the lower extremities, leading to noticeable swelling and discomfort. This condition can be a symptom of various underlying health issues, ranging from chronic venous insufficiency to heart failure.
The terms such as "Oedema of legs" and "swelling in the legs" are often used interchangeably to describe this condition, underscoring the body's inability to properly manage fluid balance.
Traditional Chinese Medicine interprets leg edema as an imbalance in the body’s vital energies, specifically concerning the Kidney, Spleen, and Bladder meridians, which are believed to govern fluid metabolism. TCM practitioners view this condition as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies such as Yang Deficiency, or Phlegm accumulation.
Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on symptom management, TCM aims to identify and correct the root cause of the edema, restoring balance and promoting the body's natural healing processes.
TCM Patterns for Leg Edema
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause leg edema
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Deep (Chen), Weak (Ruo)
Pale and wet.
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Deep (Chen), Slow (Chi)
Pale tongue
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Oedema
Diagnostic signs
Hidden (Fu), Slowed-down (Huan)
Pale tongue with white sticky coating or white slippery coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Oedema
Diagnostic signs
Hidden (Fu), Slowed-down (Huan)
Pale tongue with white sticky coating or white slippery coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Leg Edema
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address leg edema