Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different pulmonary tuberculosis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Pulmonary tuberculosis, commonly referred to as lung TB, is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other organs of the body. Characterized by symptoms such as a persistent cough, weight loss, fever, and night sweats, pulmonary TB is a condition with significant global health implications. Despite advancements in treatment, it remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches pulmonary tuberculosis through a lens vastly different from Western medicine, focusing on the balance of Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang within the body. TCM identifies pulmonary TB as a symptom of underlying imbalances and disharmony, often categorizing it under traditional syndromes such as Lung Dryness, Yin Deficiency, and Qi Deficiency. By assessing the specific patterns of disharmony in each individual, TCM aims to restore balance and health through a holistic treatment approach, emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition.
TCM Patterns for Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause pulmonary tuberculosis
Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire
Diagnostic signs
Fine (Xi), Rapid (Shu)
Recommended herbal formulas
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Recommended herbal formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal-coloured without coating or with rootless coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address pulmonary tuberculosis