Vomit in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Understanding different vomit patterns according to TCM theory

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Condition Categories

13
TCM Patterns
65
Formulas
Overview
What causes it 13 TCM patterns documented
How to recognize Symptoms specific to each vomit pattern
Classical remedies 65 herbal formulas documented

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), understanding vomiting goes beyond simply addressing the symptom; it involves recognizing the unique 'pattern' of imbalance within the body. A pattern in TCM reflects a comprehensive picture of disharmony that may involve aspects of Qi, Yin, Yang, and bodily fluids. Identifying this pattern is crucial because it directs the treatment strategy, ensuring that both the symptom and its root cause are addressed. This holistic approach allows for more personalized and effective remedies, tailored to each individual's specific imbalance.

TCM Patterns for Vomit

Heat

Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of fluids soon after drinking, Haematemesis, Vomiting of blood, Spitting up bitter or sour fluids, Vomiting of food

9 variations documented
Onset Can be sudden
Location Can be local or systemic
Features Red face/eyes • Thirst for cold drinks • Restlessness • Yellow/dark secretions

Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.

Damp-Heat in the Liver
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Loss of appetite,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Half Exterior Half Interior
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Chest distension, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dry cough, Anxiety, Restlessness, Vomit,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Stomach Heat or Fire
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of fluids soon after drinking

Along with: Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth,

Liver Fire Blazing
How it presents with vomit

Haematemesis

Along with: Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
How it presents with vomit

Haematemesis

Along with: Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache,

Heat in the Blood
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of blood

Along with: Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia,

Heat victorious agitating Blood
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of blood

Along with: Restlessness, High fever, Mania, Macules, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Heat in Gall Bladder
How it presents with vomit

Spitting up bitter or sour fluids

Along with: Mild chills with high fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Stifling sensation in the chest, Vomiting of sour fluids, Thirst, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of food

Along with: Toothache, Headaches, Loose teeth, Bleeding gums, Irritability, Thirst,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Phlegm

Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of watery fluids, Regurgitation

7 variations documented
Onset Gradual
Location Local or systemic
Features Nodules/lumps • Heavy sensation • Mucus/expectoration • Mental confusion (if affecting mind)

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."

Phlegm
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness

Phlegm Misting the Heart
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia,

Phlegm-Fluids
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of watery fluids

Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing,

Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of watery fluids

Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension,

Damp-Cold Phlegm
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm
How it presents with vomit

Regurgitation

Along with: Persistent belching, Hiccups, Vomit, Nausea or vomiting, Upper abdominal focal distention, Chronic gastritis,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Cold

Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of clear fluids

5 variations documented
Onset Sudden
Location Can be local or systemic
Features Aversion to cold • Prefers warmth • Pain relieved by heat • Tight/contracted feeling

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.

Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Greater Yin stage
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Loss of appetite, Vomit, Abdominal fullness, Chills, Diarrhea, Absence of thirst,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Cold invading the Stomach
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of clear fluids

Along with: Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea,

Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of clear fluids

Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Damp-Cold Phlegm
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Qi Stagnation

Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of food

4 variations documented
Onset Gradual (can be sudden)
Location Can be local or systemic
Features Distending/moving pain • Emotional stress worsens • Sighing • Pain relieved by movement/burping

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.

Liver Qi Stagnation
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia,

Stomach Qi Stagnation
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Qi Stagnation
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of food

Along with: Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Dampness

Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness

Causes: Vomiting

4 variations documented
Onset Gradual
Location Systemic, especially digestive
Features Heavy/foggy feeling • Sticky/turbid discharges • Poor appetite • Bloating

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-Heat in the Liver
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Loss of appetite,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Headaches, Abdominal pain, Vomit,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Damp-Cold Phlegm
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Focal distention,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Focal distention, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Yang Deficiency

Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of clear fluids

3 variations documented
Onset Gradual
Location Systemic
Features Always cold • Fatigue • Pale face • Prefers warmth • Cold limbs

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.

Greater Yin stage
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Loss of appetite, Vomit, Abdominal fullness, Chills, Diarrhea, Absence of thirst,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of clear fluids

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,

Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Qi Rebellion

Qi flowing against its natural direction, typically surging upward when it should descend

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of blood

3 variations documented
Onset Sudden
Location Upper body/upward
Features Upward movement • Nausea/vomiting • Hiccups • Cough/asthma • Headache

Qi Rebellion represents a fundamental disruption in the body's energy flow, where qi moves against its proper direction - like water flowing uphill or smoke sinking downward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ has a natural directional flow for its qi, and when this flow reverses, it creates a cascade of symptoms that shoot upward through the body.

Rebellious Lung Qi
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting, Vomiting of blood

Along with: Coughing, Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Rebellious Qi
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma

Rebellious Stomach Qi
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Nausea, Dysphagia, Belching, Vomit, Hiccups

Mind Disturbance

Disruption of consciousness, mental clarity, and emotional equilibrium causing restlessness, confusion, or withdrawal

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of blood

2 variations documented
Onset Varies
Location Heart/Mind
Features Disturbed Shen • Anxiety/insomnia/palpitations • Emotional instability • Scattered thinking

Mind Disturbance represents a broad category of patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine involving disruptions to consciousness, mental clarity, emotional stability, and cognitive function. These patterns affect the Shen (spirit/consciousness), which according to classical texts resides in the Heart and is distributed among the five organs.

Phlegm Misting the Heart
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia,

Heat victorious agitating Blood
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of blood

Along with: Restlessness, High fever, Mania, Macules, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Qi Deficiency

Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems

Causes: Vomiting, Regurgitation

2 variations documented
Onset Gradual
Location Systemic
Features Fatigue • Weak voice • Shortness of breath • Spontaneous sweating • Poor appetite

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.

Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath,

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm
How it presents with vomit

Regurgitation

Along with: Persistent belching, Hiccups, Vomit, Nausea or vomiting, Upper abdominal focal distention, Chronic gastritis,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Blood Stasis

Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels

Causes: Vomiting, Vomiting of blood, Possible vomiting of blood

2 variations documented
Onset Gradual (trauma=sudden)
Location Often local, can be systemic
Features Fixed/stabbing pain • Purple/dark coloration • Masses/tumors • Pain worse at night

Blood Stasis represents blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels, either moving too slowly, pooling in certain areas, or congealing into clots. It's one of the most important pathological conditions in Traditional Chinese Medicine and can be both a result of disease and a cause of further illness.

Stomach Blood Stagnation
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting, Vomiting of blood, Possible vomiting of blood

Along with: Nocturnal epigastric pain, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Nausea or vomiting, Potential vomiting of blood, Hematochezia

Liver Blood Stagnation
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of blood

Along with: Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods,

Wind

Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens

Causes: Vomiting of fluids soon after drinking, Haematemesis

2 variations documented
Onset Sudden
Location Often upper body/exterior
Features Rapid onset • Moving/migrating symptoms • Itching • Symptoms change location

Wind is the predominant pathogenic factor of spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered the leader of the six external pathogens. Wind is described as "the leader of the hundred diseases" (百病之长), serving as the primary factor in external pathogenic invasions. Wind represents a pathogen characterized by constant movement, changeability, and a tendency to affect the upper and outer portions of the body.

Greater Yang Accumulation of Water
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of fluids soon after drinking

Along with: Aversion to cold, Fever, Urinary retention, Slight thirst, Vomiting after eating

Traditional Herbal Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
How it presents with vomit

Haematemesis

Along with: Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache,

Blood Deficiency

Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system

Causes: Vomiting of blood

1 variation documented
Onset Gradual
Location Systemic
Features Pale face/lips/nails • Blurred vision • Dizziness • Scanty menses • Numbness

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.

Loss of Blood
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting of blood

Along with: Nosebleeds, Uterine hemorrhage, Hematuria, Hematochezia, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Summer Heat

Intense summer heat that rapidly depletes both energy and fluids

Causes: Vomiting

1 variation documented
Onset Sudden
Location Systemic
Features Mostly summer season • Profuse sweating • Intense thirst • Possible fever

Summer-Heat (暑 Shǔ) is a unique pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that only occurs during summer. Unlike other disease-causing factors in TCM that can arise internally or externally, Summer-Heat always comes from the environment - specifically from exposure to intense summer heat and humidity.

Summer-Heat
How it presents with vomit

Vomiting

Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort,

Traditional Herbal Formulas

Herbal Formulas for Vomit

Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address vomit

Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Qi Rebellion Qi Stagnation

Chai Hu Shu Gan San

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Qi Stagnation Qi Rebellion Blood Stasis

Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Phlegm

Wen Dan Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Phlegm Mind Disturbance Heat

Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Heat Mind Disturbance Blood Deficiency

Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Qi Rebellion Phlegm Qi Deficiency

Er Chen Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Phlegm Cold Dampness

Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Blood Stasis

Hua Ban Tang

Addresses these vomit patterns:

Heat