Pale Face in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different pale face patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
A pale face, characterized by a lack of color and vitality in the facial skin, is often a sign of fatigue, lethargy, or underlying health issues. This symptom, manifesting as a visibly pale or white skin tone devoid of its natural flush, can indicate several health conditions or simply a temporary state of exhaustion.
In medical terms, paleness may arise from various causes, ranging from anemia and low blood pressure to more severe conditions. However, it's the underlying factors, rather than the symptom itself, that often demand attention and treatment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on a pale face, viewing it not as a standalone symptom but as an indicator of deeper imbalances within the body's Qi (vital energy) and Blood.
TCM emphasizes the interconnectivity of the body's systems, suggesting that a pale face results from Deficiencies or Stagnations in these vital substances. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on symptom management, TCM seeks to identify and correct the root causes of disharmony, thereby restoring the body's natural balance and health.
TCM Patterns for Pale Face
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Pale face, Pale complexion, Listlessness and shiny white complexion, Bright-pale face
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Dislike of speaking, Loss of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness
Heart Qi Deficiency
Pale face
Along with: Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Spontaneous sweat, Generalized fatigue
Lung Qi Deficiency
Pale face
Along with: Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Spleen Qi Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Dislike of speaking, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste
Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency
Listlessness and shiny white complexion
Along with: Excessive menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Thin menstrual blood, Prolonged menstrual periods, Shortness of breath, Palpitations
Protective Qi Deficiency
Bright-pale face
Along with: Spontaneous sweat, Recurrent colds, Pale tongue
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
Pale face
Along with: Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia, Thin menstrual blood, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Spontaneous sweat
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips, Dizziness
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Belching
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Pale face, Bright-white complexion, Pale complexion, Bright-pale face
Yang Deficiency represents a fundamental weakness of the body's yang qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It manifests as an inability to warm the body, transform substances, and maintain normal physiological activities, resulting in various cold-type symptoms and functional decline.
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
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
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Pale face
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
Lung Yang Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice
Spleen Yang Deficiency
Pale complexion
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
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Pale complexion
Along with: Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs, Cold extremities, Generalized fatigue, Pale face
Heart Yang Deficiency
Bright-pale face
Along with: Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Generalized fatigue, Spontaneous sweat, Slight feeling of stuffiness in the heart, Chills, Cold hands, Dark lips
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
Bright-white complexion
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
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Pale face, Pale complexion
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Qi and Blood Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Dislike of speaking, Loss of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness
Heart Blood Deficiency
Pale face
Along with: Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Blood Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Spleen Blood Deficiency
Pale complexion
Along with: Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
Pale face, Pale complexion
Along with: Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Poor memory, Diarrhea, Scanty menstruation, Pale lips, Dizziness
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Pale face, Pale complexion
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Pale face
Along with: Coughing, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
Pale complexion
Along with: Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face
Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices
Pale complexion
Along with: Coma, Loss of consciousness, Clenching of teeth, Shortness of breath, Pale face, Copious sputum, Drooling
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Pale complexion
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Heart Qi Stagnation
Pale complexion
Along with: Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Pale complexion
Along with: Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Pale face
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Empty-Cold
Pale face
Along with: Chills, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea, Clear urination, Frequent urination
Cold in the Uterus
Pale face
Along with: Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Yin Deficiency
Depletion of cooling, moistening fluids causing dryness, false heat rising, and restless agitation throughout the body
Causes: Pale face
Yin Deficiency represents a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's yin fluids - blood, essence, and body fluids - become depleted, losing their ability to cool, moisten, and anchor the yang energy, resulting in relative hyperactivity of yang and internal heat manifestations.
Kidney-Deficiency
Pale face
Along with: Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities
Qi Sinking
Weakened lifting force causing downward bearing sensations, organ prolapse, and inability to hold things in their proper position
Causes: Pale face
Qi Sinking represents a progression from Spleen Qi deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where the spleen's essential lifting function fails, causing various downward symptoms and organ displacement.
Spleen Qi Sinking
Pale face
Along with: Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Yang Collapse
Sudden, catastrophic loss of yang energy causing systemic shutdown with cold sweating, frozen extremities, and consciousness fading
Causes: Bright-white complexion
Yang Collapse represents the most critical yang deficiency pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine - a life-threatening condition where the body's yang energy suddenly and massively depletes, leading to systemic functional failure.
Collapse of Yang
Bright-white complexion
Along with: Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst, Urinary or fecal incontinence, Frequent urination, Diarrhea
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Pale face
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Pale face
Along with: Coughing, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Dryness
Depletes body fluids and primarily damages the lungs
Causes: Pale complexion
Dryness is the predominant pathogenic factor of autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It represents environmental dryness that damages the body's fluids and particularly affects the respiratory system.
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
Pale complexion
Along with: Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face
Herbal Formulas for Pale Face
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address pale face
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi of the Spleen and Stomach (Middle Burner)
- Raises the Yang
- Detoxifies
- Lifts what has sunken
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia...
Spleen Qi Sinking
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Gui Pi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies and nourish Qi and Blood
- Tonifies Heart and Spleen
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia...
Heart and Spleen Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Insomnia, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Anxiety, Poor memory...
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Spleen Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea...
Si Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu...
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Warms Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen and Lungs
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath...
Si Wu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
You Gui Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Kidney Yang
- Replenishes the Essence
- Tonifies the Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yang
- Warms the Kidneys and lower extremities
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Pale face
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:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Heart Qi
- Calms the Mind and clear anxiety
- Nourish the Heart Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Spontaneous sweat, Generalized fatigue
Ban Liu Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Fortifies the Fire at the Gate of Vitality
- Expels Cold
- Unblocks the Yang
- Drains Turbidity
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea...
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth...
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates the flow of Qi,
- Clears Phlegm
- Treats esophageal spasm
- Descends Rebellious Qi
- Dissipates clumps
- Relieves Stagnation
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations...
Bao Yuan Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi and warms the Yang
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Spontaneous sweat, Generalized fatigue
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Dislike of speaking, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu...
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Middle Burner (Spleen and Stomach)
- Tonifies Qi
- Relieves spasmodic pain
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea...
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
- Clears Phlegm and mucus
- Promotes appetite
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Drains Dampness
- Stops diarrhea
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Shen Qi Si Wu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and nourishes Blood
- Stimulates Blood circulation
- Tonifies Qi
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens and harmonizes the Spleen and Stomach
- Resolves Dampness
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Nourishes Yin
- Nourishes the Blood
- Restores the pulse
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Invigorates the Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Moistens the Lungs
- Clears Heat
- Regulates Qi
- Resolve Phlegm
- Stop coughing
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness...
Bu Fei Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Stabilizes the Exterior
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Da Bu Yuan Jian
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Yin and Blood
- Nourishes Qi and Yang
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Da Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Middle Burner Deficiency
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Relieves pain
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Empty-Cold
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Chills, Cold extremities, Absence of thirst, Apathy, Excessive sweating, Diarrhea...
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Damp and dispels Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and harmonizes the Middle Burner (Stomach and Spleen)
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing...
Er Xian Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and tonifies Yang of the Kidneys
- Clears Empty Heat
- Regulates the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Er Zhi Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver Yin
- Nourishes Kidney Yin
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Fei Er Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Kills parasites
- Reduces accumulation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen...
Fu Tu Dan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Stabilizes the Kidney Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Stops leakage
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Listlessness and shiny white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Excessive menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Thin menstrual blood, Prolonged menstrual periods, Shortness of breath, Palpitations
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Lungs
- Strengthens the Stomach
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Heart
- Calms the Mind
- Harmonizes the middle burner
- Relaxes tension
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Rectifies relationship between Yin and Yang
- Harmonizes Heart and Kidney
- Stabilizes and secures Essence
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Bright-pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Generalized fatigue, Spontaneous sweat, Slight feeling of stuffiness in the heart, Chills...
Guo Qi Yin
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the menses
- Dispels blood Stagnation
- Nourishes the blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
He Che Da Zao Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys
- Strengthens the Directing and Penetrating Vessels
- Regulates the periods
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia...
Huan Shao Dan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Spleen, Heart and Kidneys
- Nourishes Yin and Blood
- Augments Qi
- Tonifies Yang
- Promotes Longevity
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Huang Tu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Nourishes the Blood
- Stops bleeding
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Hui Yang Jiu Ji Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores and revives the Yang
- Augments the Qi
- Revives the pulse
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Ji Chuan Jian
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Nourishes the Blood
- Strengthens the Essence
- Moistens the Intestines
- Unblocks bowels
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Jiu Xian San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Secures the Lungs
- Stops coughing
- Augments Qi
- Nourishes Yin
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Li Zhong Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face...
Liang Di Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin
- Cools Blood
- Stop bleeding
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Enriches the yin and nourishes the Kidneys
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi
- Augments the Kidneys
- Stops coughing
- Arrests wheezing
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Daytime sweating, Dislike of speaking
Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Expels Cold and warm the menstruation Blood
- Stops pain
- Invigorates Blood
- Dispels Blood stagnation
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Shen Fu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Restores Yang
- Strongly tonifies the source Qi
- Saves Qi from collapsing due to devastated Yang
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Collapse of Yang
How it manifests:
Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Apathy, Chills, Cold extremities, Bright pale face, Sweating on forehead, Absence of thirst...
Sheng Mai San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments Qi
- Supplies the Yin
- Stops excessive sweating
- Generates Body Fluids
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Lung Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue...
Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Augments the Qi
- Raises the Yang
- Releases Dampness
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Loss of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs...
Sheng Yu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Blood
- Preserves the Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Qi
- Warms and tonifies Blood
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Suan Zao Ren Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Blood
- Calms the Mind and eliminates irritability
- Clears Heat
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Tong Guan San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Unblocks the jaw
- Opens the sensory orifices
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Turbid Phlegm Blocks Orifices
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Coma, Loss of consciousness, Clenching of teeth, Shortness of breath, Pale face, Copious sputum...
Tong Ru Dan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Qi and Blood
- Removes Stagnation from the breast connecting Meridians
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Qi and Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness...
Tu Si Zi Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Kidneys
- Prevents abnormal leakage such as urinary incontinence or seminal emissions
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Wen Jing Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms the Uterus and vessels
- Nourishes Blood
- Dispels Cold
- Dispels Blood Stagnation
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wen Pi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Spleen Yang
- Clears Cold Evil
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Supports Kidney Yang
- Supplies Spleen Qi
- Expels Cold and Dampness from the Uterus
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Cold in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge
Wu Ling San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes urination,
- Warms the Yang
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Qi transformation function
- Drains Dampness
- Clears edema
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Pale face, Facial edema, Oedema of limbs, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath...
Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Liver and Stomach
- Directs Rebellious Qi downward
- Stops vomiting
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang
- Strengthens the Essence
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Middle Burner (Spleen and Stomach)
- Tonifies Qi
- Relieves spasmodic pain
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Loss of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs...
Yi Huang Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Dries Dampness
- Clears Heat
- Stops vaginal discharge
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Yu Lin Zhu
Addresses these pale face 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 Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face, Bright-white complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills...
Yu Ping Feng San
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Augments the Qi
- Stabilizes the Exterior
- Stops sweating
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Protective Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Bright-pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Spontaneous sweat, Recurrent colds, Pale tongue
Zhen Wu Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Yang and Qi of the Spleen and Kidneys
- Eliminates Dampness
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Spleen Yang Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale complexion
Accompanying symptoms:
Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills...
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Anchors the Heart and calms the Mind
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Heart Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Easily startled, Vivid dreaming, Hysteria, Neurasthenia
Zuo Gui Wan
Addresses these pale face patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes the Yin
- Strengthens the Kidneys
- Fills the Essence
- Augments the marrow
Addresses These Pale Face Pattern Variations
Kidney-Deficiency
How it manifests:
Pale face
Accompanying symptoms:
Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus...