Skin Swelling in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different skin swelling patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Skin swelling is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the tissues beneath the skin, leading to noticeable puffiness or enlargement of the affected area. This can result from a wide range of causes, including injury, infection, allergic reactions, and chronic health conditions. The swelling can vary in severity, from mild and barely noticeable to severe and disabling, impacting the individual's comfort and mobility. Understanding the underlying cause of skin swelling is crucial for effective treatment and management.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches skin swelling as a symptom of imbalance within the body's vital energies and organ systems. TCM suggests that skin swelling arises from disruptions in the flow of Qi and Blood, often caused by the accumulation of pathogenic factors such as Phlegm, Dampness, and Heat.
Unlike Western medicine, which tends to focus on the immediate physical cause, TCM seeks to identify and treat the underlying pattern of disharmony contributing to the condition, emphasizing a holistic approach to healing.
TCM Patterns for Skin Swelling
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause skin swelling
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Wiry (Xian)
Purple tongue with black dots and white sticky coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Skin Swelling
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address skin swelling