Pancreatitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different pancreatitis patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, is a condition presenting in two primary forms: acute and chronic. The pancreas, essential for digestion and blood sugar regulation, becomes inflamed, leading to symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, and digestive disturbances.
Acute pancreatitis often results from gallstones or alcohol use, while chronic pancreatitis develops over time, impairing pancreatic function. Both types require careful management due to potential serious health complications.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches pancreatitis differently from Western medicine, focusing on energy balance and flow within the body. TCM sees pancreatitis as a symptom of underlying imbalances in Qi (energy), Yin and Yang, and organ harmony.
It emphasizes identifying specific disharmony patterns, as similar symptoms can emerge from various imbalances, necessitating tailored treatment strategies.
Herbal Formulas for Pancreatitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address pancreatitis
Chai Hu Gui Zhi Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the Lessor Yang and Greater Yang Stage
- Releases the Exterior and muscle layer
- Harmonizes the Liver, Spleen and Intestines
- Dispels Water Accumulation
Dan Shen Yin
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Invigorates the Blood and removes Blood Stagnation
- Promote Qi movement
- Relieves pain
Bao He Wan
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Reduces food stagnation
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Da Chai Hu Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Harmonizes and releases the Lesser Yang
- Drains internal clumping due to Heat
Da Cheng Qi Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Purges Heat from the Stomach and Intestines
- Relieves constipation
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies the Middle Burner (Spleen and Stomach)
- Tonifies Qi
- Relieves spasmodic pain
Si Ni San
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Regulates Liver and Spleen
- Eliminates Internal Heat
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Treats the Lesser Yang Channels (Gallbladder and Triple Warmer)
- Regulates the Liver and Spleen functions
- Addresses combined Yin-Yang symptoms of External and Internal, Excess and Deficiency, and Hot and Cold
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Transforms Phlegm
- Expands the chest
- Dissipates clumps
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Moderately purges Heat accumulation
- Circulates Qi in the Middle
Zeng Ye Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Nourishes Yin and Essence
- Lubricates Dryness
Da Jian Zhong Tang
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Warms and tonifies Middle Burner Deficiency
- Directs rebellious Qi downward
- Relieves pain
Yue Ju Wan
Traditional formula for pancreatitis
Main Actions
- Promotes the movement of Qi
- Releases all types of Stagnation (Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Fire, Food and Dampness)