Melancholia in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different melancholia patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Melancholia, a term with ancient roots, describes a profound state of persistent sadness, often accompanied by a lack of interest in activities that once brought joy. This condition, characterized by deeper and more severe feelings than typical sadness or depression, can significantly impact an individual's daily life and overall well-being.
Historically, melancholia was considered to encompass a wide range of psychological disturbances, including what modern psychiatry might classify under depressive disorders.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), melancholia is seen as a manifestation of disharmony in the body's Qi, or vital energy. The concept of a 'pattern' is crucial as it encapsulates the unique constellation of symptoms and imbalances within a person. Identifying this pattern is critical for TCM practitioners because it determines the personalized treatment approach, ensuring that the root cause of melancholia is addressed for effective and holistic healing.
TCM Patterns for Melancholia
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause melancholia
Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Normal or slightly red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Red on the sides
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Melancholia
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address melancholia