Symptom family: Nausea and Vomiting

Sub-symptom(s): Persistent Belching

What is belching?

Belching, often referred to as burping, is the act of expelling air from the stomach through the mouth. It's a natural process that helps to release excess air swallowed during eating or drinking. While it's usually a normal bodily function, excessive belching can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. Belching is often accompanied by a sound and, occasionally, an odor. This common digestive system occurrence can be occasional or persistent, depending on various factors, including dietary habits and the presence of certain gastrointestinal conditions.

How does TCM view belching?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), belching is more than just a physical response to swallowed air; it's viewed as a symptom of an imbalance within the body's energy system, particularly the Qi, or vital energy. TCM interprets belching as an indication of disharmony in the stomach and spleen, organs pivotal in digestion and the movement of Qi throughout the body.

When Qi flows smoothly, digestion proceeds optimally, but any disruption in this flow can lead to symptoms like belching. TCM stresses the importance of identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony causing belching, considering it a sign that the body's natural energy flow has been disturbed.

Root Causes of Belching in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) attributes belching primarily to Qi Stagnation and Qi Rebellion. Qi Stagnation often stems from emotional disturbances like stress, which disrupts the smooth flow of Qi, especially in the Liver, leading to digestive issues such as belching. Qi Rebellion, on the other hand, refers to the abnormal movement of Qi in the opposite direction of its natural flow. This is particularly relevant in the Stomach, where Rebellious Qi can cause symptoms like belching, indicating the body's efforts to realign this errant flow.

These patterns highlight the importance of emotional health in maintaining digestive harmony in TCM's holistic approach, emphasizing the need to address both the physical and emotional aspects to alleviate symptoms effectively.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Stomach
  • Liver
  • Spleen
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Belching

Common Symptoms: Irritability Upper Abdominal Distension Depression Vomit Lack Of Appetite Abdominal Distention Sighing Mood Swings

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Belching, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Stomach Qi Stagnation Belching, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups, Irritability... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Qi Stagnation Belching, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Yue Ju Wan
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux, Vomiting undigested food... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Rebellion

Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more

Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Belching

Common Symptoms: Hiccups Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Sighing Nausea Or Vomiting Irritability Headaches Nausea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi Belching, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Belching, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Rebellious Qi Belching, Hiccups, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Rebellious Stomach Qi Belching, Nausea, Dysphagia, Vomit, Hiccups Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Belching

Common Symptoms: Stomach Dilation Vomit Stifling Sensation In The Chest Head Fog Dizziness Nausea Feeling Of Heaviness Limb Numbness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Belching, Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Yue Ju Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm Unremitting belching, Persistent belching, Hiccups, Vomit, Nausea or vomiting, Upper abdominal focal distention, Chronic gastritis, Stomach prolapse, Stomach dilation, Peptic ulcer, Chronic hepatitis... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
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 Belching

Common Symptoms: Vomit Chronic Hepatitis Stomach Prolapse Dizziness Unsteadiness Blurry Vision Deafness Tinnitus

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency Belching, Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Pale face, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea... see more Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm Unremitting belching, Persistent belching, Hiccups, Vomit, Nausea or vomiting, Upper abdominal focal distention, Chronic gastritis, Stomach prolapse, Stomach dilation, Peptic ulcer, Chronic hepatitis... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Belching

Common Symptoms: Hiccups Vomit Nausea Acid Reflux Lack Of Appetite Upper Abdominal Distension Irritability Abdominal Distention

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Food Stagnation in the Stomach Belching, Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, Nausea, Vomiting of sour fluids, Bad breath, Acid reflux, Insomnia, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Lack of appetite, Abdominal pain due to overeating... see more Bao He Wan | Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan | Gua Di San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Belching, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Rebellious Stomach Qi Belching, Nausea, Dysphagia, Vomit, Hiccups Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Stomach Qi Stagnation Belching, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Nausea, Vomit, Hiccups, Irritability... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux, Vomiting undigested food... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency Belching, Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Pale face, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea... see more Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm Unremitting belching, Persistent belching, Hiccups, Vomit, Nausea or vomiting, Upper abdominal focal distention, Chronic gastritis, Stomach prolapse, Stomach dilation, Peptic ulcer, Chronic hepatitis... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe 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 Belching

Common Symptoms: Upper Abdominal Distension Irritability Hypochondriac Distention Sighing Hiccups Abdominal Distention Depression Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Belching, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Rebellious Liver Qi Belching, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Belching, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach Belching, Abdominal distention, Upper abdominal distension, Depression, Irritability, Dry mouth, Lack of appetite, Craving for sour foods, Dry throat, Acid reflux, Vomiting undigested food... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Zuo Jin Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Belching

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency Belching, Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurry vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Pale face, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea... see more Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Belching

TCM's approach to treating belching involves the use of specific formulas and herbs designed to address the underlying patterns of disharmony. For example, Chai Hu Shu Gan San is recommended for Liver Qi Stagnation to smooth and soothe the Liver Qi, thus reducing symptoms like belching that arise from emotional stress.

Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang is employed to resolve Qi Rebellion, guiding the Qi downward and alleviating belching and other related symptoms. These treatments underscore TCM's holistic approach, focusing on restoring balance and harmony to the body's Qi, thereby alleviating belching and improving overall digestive health.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
  • Formulas that induce vomiting
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear heat
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Belching Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach, Stomach Qi Stagnation
Zuo Jin Wan Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach, Stomach Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Belching Caused by Qi Rebellion

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi
Si Ni San Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang Rebellious Qi
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San Rebellious Stomach Qi

All Formulas Recommended for Belching Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Phlegm
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm
Yue Ju Wan Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Belching Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for belching

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Phlegm, Liver Qi Stagnation invading the Stomach, Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi, Stomach Qi Stagnation... see more
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi
Yue Ju Wan Phlegm, Qi Stagnation
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

All "formulas for a rebellious qi" recommended for belching

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi, Stomach Qi Deficiency with Phelgm... see more
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang Rebellious Qi

All "formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation" recommended for belching

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bao He Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach
Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach

Acupoints for Belching

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

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Spleen Channel
  • Liver Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
Geshu BL-17

Geshu BL-17

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).

Danshu BL-19

Danshu BL-19

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

Weishu BL-21

Weishu BL-21

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12).

Geguan BL-46

Geguan BL-46

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).

Liangqiu ST-34

Liangqiu ST-34

2 cun above the upper-lateral border of the patella, on a line between the upper lateral patellar border and the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS).

Zusanli ST-36

Zusanli ST-36

3 cun below Dubi ST-35, one finger breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, on the tibialis anterior muscle.

Jiexi ST-41

Jiexi ST-41

At the junction of the dorsum of the foot and leg, between the tendons of extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus muscle. Approximately at the level of the tip of the external malleolus.

Xiangu ST-43

Xiangu ST-43

On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones, at the level of the junction of the shafts and the heads of these metatarsal bones.

Lougu SP-7

Lougu SP-7

6 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus, 3 cun above Sanyinjiao SP-6.

Shidou SP-17

Shidou SP-17

6 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 2 cun lateral to the mamillary line, in the 5th intercostal space.

Zhangmen LIV-13

Zhangmen LIV-13

On the lateral side of the abdomen, below the free end of the 11th rib.

Qimen LIV-14

Qimen LIV-14

On the mammillary line, two ribs below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the midline. Please note that there is an alternative location for LIV-14 at the lower edge of the ribcage in line with the nipple or, in women, 4 cun from the midline. In fact, one could look upon these as two separate points. The one in the intercostal space is used more for Channel problems. While the one at the lower edge of the ribcage is used more for Organ problems.

Neiguan P-6

Neiguan P-6

2 cun above Daling P-7 on the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.

Riyue GB-24

Riyue GB-24

On the mamillary line which is 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, in the 7th intercostal space, 1 intercostal space below Qimen LIV-14.