What are Lumps?

Lumps refer to any noticeable swelling or bulge under the skin, varying greatly in size and texture. They can appear anywhere on the body and may result from numerous causes, including infections, inflammation, tumors, or cysts. Lumps are common and often benign, but depending on their cause and characteristics, they can sometimes indicate a more serious condition. Their nature—whether soft, hard, painful, or painless—provides essential clues to their underlying causes.

How does TCM view Lumps?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets lumps as manifestations of internal imbalances and blockages within the body's energy pathways, or meridians. According to TCM, the presence of lumps signals disharmony among the body's vital energies, particularly Qi (life force), Blood, Phlegm, and bodily Fluids.

The treatment focuses on restoring balance, enhancing Qi flow, and addressing the specific disharmony causing the lumps, with the understanding that the external symptom (the lump) is a reflection of an internal ailment.

Root Causes of Lumps in TCM

In TCM, lumps are often attributed to the Stagnation of Qi and Blood or the accumulation of Phlegm and Heat. For instance, Phlegm and Blood Stasis can lead to palpable masses that are either movable or fixed and painful. These conditions might arise from emotional stress, dietary imbalances, external pathogenic factors, or a combination of these. TCM treatments aim to invigorate Blood, transform Phlegm, clear Heat, and circulate Qi to dissolve lumps and restore health.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
  • Liver
  • Stomach
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 Lumps

Common Symptoms: Abdominal Masses Menstrual Cramps Dark Menstrual Clots Dark Menstrual Blood Amenorrhea Irregular Periods Restlessness Dark Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation Lumps, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood... see more Tao He Cheng Qi Tang | Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan | Di Dang Tang | Dan Shen Yin | Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan | San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Hai Tong Pi Tang | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang
Qi And Blood Stagnation Breast lumps, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Wen Jing Tang
Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels Breast lumps, Irregular periods, Brown vaginal discharge, Dark menstrual clots, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Lower abdominal pain, Umbilical pain, Breast engorgement, Breast pain... see more Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
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 Lumps

Common Symptoms: Depression Irritability Mood Swings Irregular Periods Breast Engorgement Scanty Menstruation Clots In Blood Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Stagnation Soft palpable lumps, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Mo Tang | Qi Ge San
Liver Qi Stagnation Neck lumps, Breast lumps, Breast nodules, 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 Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Gua Lou San | Xia Ru Yong Quan San
Qi And Blood Stagnation Breast lumps, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Wen Jing Tang
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 Lumps

Common Symptoms: Stifling Sensation In The Chest Dizziness Chest Distension Hepatitis Coughing Shortness Of Breath Wheezing Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Clump, Clumping in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Xiao Xian Xiong Tang
Phlegm Lumps, 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
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 Lumps

Common Symptoms: Thirst Fever Constipation Coughing Shortness Of Breath Wheezing Stifling Sensation In The Chest Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Clump, Clumping in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Xiao Xian Xiong Tang
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat Breast lumps, Breast nodules, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast hardness... see more Gua Lou San
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 Lumps

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Clump, Clumping in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Xiao Xian Xiong 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 Lumps

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Neck lumps, Breast lumps, Breast nodules, 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 Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Gua Lou San | Xia Ru Yong Quan San
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 Lumps

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat Breast lumps, Breast nodules, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast hardness... see more Gua Lou San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Lumps

For lumps resulting from Phlegm and Heat accumulation, formulas like Xiao Xian Xiong Tang, which includes Snake Gourds (Gua Lou) to transform Phlegm and clear Heat, are commonly prescribed. Similarly, for lumps caused by Blood Stasis, Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, featuring Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), helps invigorate Blood and dispel Stasis.

These formulas, among others, are tailored to address the specific pattern of disharmony identified through TCM diagnostic methods, ensuring a holistic approach to treatment that targets both the symptoms and their root causes.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity

All Formulas Recommended for Lumps Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Blood Stagnation, Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels, Qi And Blood Stagnation... see more
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang Blood Stagnation
Di Dang Tang Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan Blood Stagnation
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang Blood Stagnation
Hai Tong Pi Tang Blood Stagnation
Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang Blood Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wen Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Lumps Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Qi And Blood Stagnation
Gua Lou San Liver Qi Stagnation
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation
Xia Ru Yong Quan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wen Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Lumps Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
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 Recommended for Lumps Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gua Lou San Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for lumps

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Blood Stagnation, Blood Stagnation in the Directing and Penetrating Vessels, Qi And Blood Stagnation... see more
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Blood Stagnation
Di Dang Tang Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan Blood Stagnation
Xia Ru Yong Quan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wen Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation

All "formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores" recommended for lumps

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tuo Li Xiao Du San Jealous Breast (Du Ru), Blow Breast (Chui Ru)
Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang Blood Stagnation

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for lumps

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for lumps

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Yao San Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for lumps

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

Acupoints for Lumps

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

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Kidney Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Spleen Channel
  • Small Intestine Channel
Jianjing GB-21

Jianjing GB-21

Midway between Dazhui DU-14 and the lateral extremity of the acromion, at the highest point of the shoulder.

Zulingqi GB-41

Zulingqi GB-41

In the depression distal to the junction of the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the foot.

Diwuhui GB-42

Diwuhui GB-42

Between the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the medial side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the little toe.

Xiaxi GB-43

Xiaxi GB-43

Between the 4th and 5th toes, proximal to the margin of the interdigital web.

Bulang KID-22

Bulang KID-22

In the 5th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shenfeng KID-23

Shenfeng KID-23

In the 4th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yuzhong KID-26

Yuzhong KID-26

In the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Wuyi ST-15

Wuyi ST-15

In the 2nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yingchuang ST-16

Yingchuang ST-16

In the 3nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Rugen ST-18

Rugen ST-18

In the 5nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Dushu BL-16

Dushu BL-16

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 6th thoracic vertebra (T6).

Huangmen BL-51

Huangmen BL-51

3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra (L1).

Shanzhong REN-17

Shanzhong REN-17

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 4th intercostal space or nipples.

Tianxi SP-18

Tianxi SP-18

2 cun lateral to the nipple, in the 4th intercostal space.

Tianzong SI-11

Tianzong SI-11

In the intrascapular fossa, at the junction of the upper and middle third of the distance between the lower border of the scapular spine and the inferior angle of the scapula.