Malnutrition in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different malnutrition patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Malnutrition refers to the condition that occurs when a person's diet does not provide adequate nutrients for growth and maintenance or when the body cannot properly absorb the nutrients consumed. It can manifest in various ways, including undernourishment, where there's a lack of calories, protein, or micronutrients necessary for health. Common sub-symptoms include malnutrition due to parasites, infant malnutrition, and malnutrition in children. These conditions can lead to stunted growth, weakened immune systems, and a higher susceptibility to diseases.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views malnutrition not just as a lack of nutrients but as an imbalance or disharmony within the body's systems. According to TCM, malnutrition can be caused by various patterns of disharmony, including Seficiencies in Qi, Blood, or Yin, or the presence of parasites. Identifying the correct underlying pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as TCM aims to restore balance and harmony within the body, rather than simply addressing the symptoms.
Herbal Formulas for Malnutrition
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address malnutrition