Schistosomiasis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different schistosomiasis patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by blood flukes, a type of flatworm known as Schistosoma. The disease is contracted through contact with freshwater contaminated with the parasites, typically in regions with poor sanitation. The parasites penetrate the skin and travel through the bloodstream, where they mature and reproduce in the blood vessels. Schistosomiasis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the urine or stool. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic health problems, such as liver damage, kidney failure, and bladder cancer.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), schistosomiasis is viewed as a result of external pathogenic factors invading the body, disrupting the balance of Qi, Blood, and vital organs. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on the parasitic infection itself, TCM looks at the underlying patterns of disharmony that allow the disease to take hold.
These patterns can vary widely, making it essential to identify the correct pattern before treatment can begin. TCM emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of the imbalance.
Herbal Formulas for Schistosomiasis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address schistosomiasis