Symptom family: Fear and Anxiety

Root Causes of Timidity in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Timidity according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Gallbladder
  • Liver
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Timidity

Common Symptoms: Easily Startled Lack Of Bravery Indecision Sighing Dizziness Blurry Vision Eye Floaters Nervousness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Liver Qi Deficiency Timidity, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Si Wu Tang | Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Gallbladder

In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Timidity

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Timidity

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Deficiency Timidity, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Si Wu Tang | Xiao Yao San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Timidity

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address timidity, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen

All Formulas Recommended for Timidity Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Gallbladder Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Deficiency

Acupoints for Timidity

Explore below some acupoints used to address timidity, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Spleen Channel
  • Governing Vessel
  • Heart Channel
Danshu BL-19

Danshu BL-19

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10).

Sanyinjiao SP-6

Sanyinjiao SP-6

3 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the tibia, on the line drawn from the medial malleolus to Yinlingquan SP-9.

Shendao DU-11

Shendao DU-11

On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 5th thoracic vertebra (T5).

Shenmen HE-7

Shenmen HE-7

On the transverse crease of the wrist, in the articular region between the pisiform bone and the ulna, in the depression on the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle.