Myelitisaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Neurological Disorders

What is Myelitis?

Myelitis refers to the inflammation of the spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system that connects the brain to the body. This condition can disrupt the normal functioning of the spinal cord, leading to symptoms ranging from mild back pain to severe paralysis.

The causes of myelitis are varied and can include viral infections, autoimmune reactions, or exposure to toxins. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms and preventing long-term damage.

How does TCM view Myelitis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches myelitis from a holistic perspective, viewing it as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's energetic system. TCM does not isolate the spinal cord as a separate entity but sees it in relation to the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood through the body's meridians.

According to TCM, myelitis symptoms may arise from external pathogenic factors such as Wind, Damp, or Cold invading the body, or from internal disharmonies such as Qi And Blood Stagnation. Identifying and addressing these underlying imbalances is crucial for treatment and recovery in TCM.

Causes of Myelitis According to TCM

In TCM, the causes of myelitis are often attributed to the invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind-Damp, which can lead to blockages in the flow of Qi and Blood within the body. This disruption can result in inflammation and the subsequent symptoms associated with myelitis.

Wind invading the Channels, joints, and muscles is seen as a common cause, often leading to conditions like Painful Obstruction, where Qi and Blood flow are severely hindered. TCM emphasizes the importance of expelling these pathogenic factors and restoring the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood to treat myelitis effectively.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Myelitis

To combat the symptoms of myelitis and address its underlying causes, TCM recommends the use of specific formulas that dispel Wind-Damp and restore the flow of Qi and Blood. One such formula is Da Fang Feng Tang, which contains Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) as a key ingredient.

This formula is tailored to treat patterns like Wind invading the Channels, joints, and muscles, offering relief from Painful Obstruction by expelling pathogenic Wind and Dampness and warming the Channels. Through the application of these targeted treatments, TCM aims to alleviate the symptoms of myelitis by correcting the internal imbalances that contribute to the condition.

See more details below about Da Fang Feng Tang, a herbal formula used to address myelitis.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that dispel wind-Damp

TCM Herbs for Myelitis

See more details below about Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng), a herb used to address myelitis.

  • By Herb Category
  • Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior