Symptom family: Body Weight Issues

Sub-symptom(s): Emaciation With No Loss Of Appetite

Did you mean? Emaciation

What is Emaciation?

Emaciation refers to an extreme degree of weight loss that results in a very thin and frail physique. This condition goes beyond mere slimness or slenderness, representing a significant reduction in body mass. It's often associated with inadequate nutritional intake or absorption, but can also result from various medical conditions. Emaciation may occur even without a loss of appetite, highlighting its complexity beyond simple dietary factors.

How does TCM view Emaciation?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), emaciation is viewed through the lens of holistic balance and Qi (vital energy) flow. Unlike Western medicine, which often attributes emaciation to caloric imbalance or specific medical conditions, TCM interprets it as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies in the body's energy system.

These could stem from Deficiencies or imbalances in vital substances like Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang. TCM seeks to identify and correct these imbalances, believing that restoring harmony will address the symptom of emaciation.

Root Causes of Emaciation in TCM

From a TCM perspective, emaciation can result from several patterns of disharmony. Yin Deficiency, for example, may present with a thin body, night dry coughing, and exertional dyspnea, suggesting an imbalance in nurturing and cooling aspects of the body.

Blood Deficiency, another potential cause, might manifest as dizziness, scanty menstruation, and a pale complexion, indicating a lack of the vital substance that sustains life and health. These patterns underscore TCM's belief that emaciation stems from deeper imbalances rather than surface-level dietary issues alone.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Heat
  • Yin Collapse
  • Blood Stasis
  • Dryness
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Common Symptoms: Night Sweats Nighttime Fever Irritability Insomnia Dizziness Chronic Pyelonephritis Pulmonary Tuberculosis Renal Tuberculosis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency Thin body, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan
Yin Deficiency Thin body, Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry mouth and throat at night, Nocturnal emission, Pain relieved by pressure and cold, Preference for sipping... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Mu Li San | Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang
Full Heat Yin Deficiency Emaciation with no loss of appetite, Nighttime fever, Lack of sweating Qin Jiao Bie Jia San
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency Emaciation, Nighttime fever, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue, Irritability... see more Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Common Symptoms: Scanty Menstruation Amenorrhea Insomnia Depression Pale Face Dizziness Dull Shallow Face Pale Lips

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency Thin body, Dizziness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia... see more Si Wu Tang | Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang
Spleen Blood Deficiency Thin body, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more Gui Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Common Symptoms: Nighttime Fever Chronic Pyelonephritis Pulmonary Tuberculosis Renal Tuberculosis Tidal Fever Hot Palms And Soles Red Skin Eruptions Night Sweats

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Full Heat Yin Deficiency Emaciation with no loss of appetite, Nighttime fever, Lack of sweating Qin Jiao Bie Jia San
Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency Emaciation, Nighttime fever, Chronic pyelonephritis, Pulmonary tuberculosis, Renal tuberculosis, Tidal fever, Hot palms and soles, Red skin eruptions, Night sweats, Generalized fatigue, Irritability... see more Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Collapse

Yin Collapse in TCM represents an extreme form of Yin deficiency and is considered a serious and critical state of imbalance. It occurs when the body's nourishing and cooling Yin energy is so depleted that it can no longer counterbalance the active and warm Yang energy. This leads to a surge of uncontrolled Yang, manifesting as severe heat signs. The symptoms of Yin Collapse are more intense than those of a simple Yin deficiency. They include profuse sweating (especially at night), a severe sensation of heat and burning, often in the palms, soles, and chest, a very red tongue with little or no coating, a rapid and thin pulse, and potentially severe restlessness or agitation. There might also be symptoms of severe dryness, like dry throat, thirst, and dry skin. Yin Collapse is considered an emergency in TCM and requires immediate intervention. Treatment aims to rapidly nourish and replenish Yin while simultaneously subduing the excessive Yang.... see more

Yin Collapse Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Collapse of Yin Emaciation, Low grade fever, Night sweats, Restlessness, Dry mouth with desire to sip liquids, Heat sensation in palms, Flushed cheekbones, Urinary retention, Constipation... see more Da Bu Yin Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Thin body, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Large Intestine Dryness Thin body, Dry stools, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Emaciation, Dizziness, Bad breath Zeng Ye Tang | Ma Zi Ren Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Exertional Dyspnea Lower Back Pain Night Dry Coughing Dry Throat Dry Mouth Night Sweats

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency Thin body, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan
Kidneys failing to receive Qi Thin body, Exertional dyspnea, Rapid breath, Weak respiratory, Difficulty breathing in, Chronic coughing, Asthma, Spontaneous sweat, Cold extremities, Facial edema, Emaciation, Low energy, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Clear urination... see more You Gui Wan | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San
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 Emaciation

Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Weak Limbs Diarrhea Scanty Menstruation Amenorrhea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Thin body, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Spleen Blood Deficiency Thin body, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more Gui Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency Thin body, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Large Intestine

In TCM the Large Intestine is primarily seen as responsible for the absorption of fluids and the excretion of waste. It is closely related to the Lung in terms of energy flow and function, reflecting the interconnectedness of organ systems in TCM. When the Large Intestine malfunctions, it can lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, and an inability to let go of emotional waste, like holding onto grief or stress. This is in line with the TCM view that the physical and emotional aspects of health are deeply connected. An imbalanced Large Intestine can also manifest as skin problems, signifying the organ’s role in eliminating toxins and maintaining balance in the body’s internal environment.... see more

Large Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Large Intestine Dryness Thin body, Dry stools, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Emaciation, Dizziness, Bad breath Zeng Ye Tang | Ma Zi Ren Wan
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 Emaciation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Thin body, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Emaciation

To address emaciation, TCM recommends specific formulas and herbs tailored to the underlying pattern. For Yin Deficiency, Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan, enriched with Prepared rehmannia, nourishes Yin and tonifies the body.

In cases of Blood Deficiency, Si Wu Tang is used to enrich blood and address the root of emaciation. TCM treatments aim to nourish and balance the body’s internal systems, thereby naturally resolving the symptom of emaciation.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Heat
  • Yin Collapse
  • Blood Stasis
  • Dryness
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that enrich yin and moisten dryness
  • Formulas that moisten intestines and unblock bowels
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that stabilize exterior and stop sweating
  • Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify

All Formulas Recommended for Emaciation Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Yin Deficiency
Mu Li San Yin Deficiency
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang Yin Deficiency
Qin Jiao Bie Jia San Full Heat Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Emaciation Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Spleen Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Emaciation Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Qin Jiao Bie Jia San Full Heat Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Emaciation Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Emaciation Caused by Dryness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Zeng Ye Tang Large Intestine Dryness
Ma Zi Ren Wan Large Intestine Dryness

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for emaciation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Da Bu Yin Wan Collapse of Yin
Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for emaciation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Wu Tang Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that clear heat from deficiency" recommended for emaciation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang Empty-Heat caused by Yin Deficiency
Qin Jiao Bie Jia San Full Heat Yin Deficiency

Acupoints for Emaciation

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as a treatment modality for emaciation. One crucial acupoint is Weishu BL-21, located near the 12th thoracic vertebra. This point is known for its ability to tonify Stomach Qi and resolve dampness, addressing digestive issues that might contribute to emaciation. By stimulating such acupoints, TCM aims to enhance the body's natural healing processes and restore balance, thereby alleviating emaciation.

See more details below about Weishu BL-21, an acupoint used to address emaciation.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
Weishu BL-21

Weishu BL-21

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