Symptom family: Cognitive Impairment

Did you mean? Confusion

Root Causes of Head Fog in TCM

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

  • By Syndrome
  • Phlegm
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 Head Fog

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Muzziness of the head, Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Er Chen Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang | Xing Su San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Head Fog

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Phlegm
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten

All Formulas Recommended for Head Fog Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Phlegm
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang Phlegm
Xing Su San Phlegm

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for head fog

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm

Acupoints for Head Fog

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

  • By Meridian
  • Spleen Channel
  • Stomach Channel
Taibai SP-3

Taibai SP-3

Proximal and inferior to the head of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Touwei ST-8

Touwei ST-8

At the temporal corner of the forehead, on the border of the temporalis muscle. 0.5 cun within the anterior hairline at the corner of the forehead and 4.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.