Bloated Abdomenaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Abdominal Distension and Fullness
Did you mean? Abdominal Distention Abdominal Fullness
What is Bloated Abdomen?
A bloated abdomen, commonly known as bloating, is a condition characterized by a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdominal area. This sensation often results from an accumulation of gas in the digestive tract, leading to discomfort and sometimes abdominal pain.
Bloating can be associated with various factors, including dietary habits, digestive disorders, and stress. It's a symptom experienced by many and can range from mild discomfort to severe abdominal distension, significantly impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.
How does TCM view Bloated Abdomen?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches bloated abdomen with a unique perspective, diverging from conventional Western medical explanations. In TCM, bloating is viewed as a symptom of underlying imbalances within the body's energy system, particularly involving the Qi (vital energy) and the digestive organs.
TCM emphasizes the need to identify specific patterns of disharmony that are causing the bloating, as each case may stem from different imbalances. Treatment in TCM is thus tailored to address these unique underlying causes, aiming for holistic healing and balance.
Root Causes of Bloated Abdomen in TCM
In TCM, a bloated abdomen is primarily linked to two patterns of imbalance: Qi Deficiency and Yang Deficiency. Spleen Qi Deficiency is characterized by symptoms such as bloating, slight abdominal distension after eating, general weakness, and excessive gas. This pattern reflects a weakened state of the body's vital energy, particularly in the digestive system.
On the other hand, Spleen Yang Deficiency presents similar bloating and distension, coupled with additional symptoms like cold extremities, chills, and a pale complexion. This pattern indicates a deeper level of energy depletion, where the body's warming and metabolic functions are impaired. These TCM patterns highlight the importance of understanding the specific internal imbalances leading to bloating.
Explore below more details about what might cause Bloated abdomen according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Deficiency
- Yang Deficiency
- Spleen
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 Bloated Abdomen
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Bloating, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
Yang Deficiency
Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more
Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Bloated Abdomen
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Yang Deficiency | Bloating, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie in fetal position, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face... see more | Zhen Wu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Yi Huang Tang | Huang Tu Tang | Wen Pi Tang |
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 Bloated Abdomen
Common Symptoms: Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating General Weakness Excessive Gas And Flatulence Lack Of Appetite Generalized Fatigue Diarrhea Pale Face Weak Limbs
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Bloating, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
| Spleen Yang Deficiency | Bloating, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie in fetal position, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face... see more | Zhen Wu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Yi Huang Tang | Huang Tu Tang | Wen Pi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Bloated Abdomen
To address bloating from a TCM perspective, specific formulas and herbs are recommended based on the identified pattern. For Spleen Qi Deficiency, formulas such as Liu Jun Zi Tang and Si Jun Zi Tang, both containing Ginseng (Ren Shen), are commonly used. These formulas work to tonify the Qi, strengthening the body's energy and improving digestive function.
In cases of Spleen Yang Deficiency, formulas like Zhen Wu Tang, with Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, containing Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), are recommended. These help to warm the interior, transform dampness, and restore the body's yang energy. The choice of formula and herbs in TCM is highly personalized, aiming to address the specific pattern of disharmony in each individual.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address bloated abdomen, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Deficiency
- Yang Deficiency
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
- Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
- Formulas that stop bleeding
- Formulas that warm and purge
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause bloated abdomen, such as Spleen Qi Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Bloated Abdomen Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Fei Er Wan | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Zhen Wu Tang
Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause bloated abdomen, such as Spleen Yang Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Bloated Abdomen Caused by Yang Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Zhen Wu Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Yi Huang Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Huang Tu Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Wen Pi Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
Formulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Qi Deficiency.
One such formula is Liu Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan | Not applicable |
Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Qi Deficiency.
One such formula is Fei Er Wan, with quisqualis fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Zhen Wu Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Yi Huang Tang, with yam as a key herb.
Formulas that stop bleeding
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Huang Tu Tang, with stove earth as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and purge
These formulas are suitable for some bloated abdomen-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Wen Pi Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Bloated Abdomen
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address bloated abdomen, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that relieve food stagnation
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that expel parasites
- Laxative herbs that drain downward
- Cathartic herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
- Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that regulate Qi
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Agarwood (Chen Xiang), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that regulate Qi" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Agarwood (Chen Xiang) | Not applicable |
| Areca Peel (Da Fu Pi) | Not applicable |
| Citron (Xiang Yuan) | Not applicable |
| Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) | Not applicable |
| Costus Roots (Mu Xiang) | Not applicable |
| Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi) | Not applicable |
| Immature Bitter Oranges (Zhi Shi) | Not applicable |
| Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Liu Jun Zi Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Yi Huang Tang |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Not applicable |
Herbs that relieve Food Stagnation
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs in cases of digestive disturbances due to overeating or consuming hard-to-digest foods, assisting in breaking down and moving food through the digestive system.
One such herb is Hawthorn Berries (Shan Zha), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that relieve Food Stagnation" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Hawthorn Berries (Shan Zha) | Not applicable |
| Malt (Mai Ya) | Not applicable |
| Medicated Leaven (Shen Qu) | Not applicable |
| Radish Seeds (Lai Fu Zi) | Not applicable |
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Eupatorium Herbs (Pei Lan), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Eupatorium Herbs (Pei Lan) | Not applicable |
| Houpu Magnolia Bark (Hou Pu) | Not applicable |
| Korean Mint (Huo Xiang) | Not applicable |
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Zhen Wu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) | Zhen Wu Tang | Wen Pi Tang |
| Fennel Seeds (Xiao Hui Xiang) | Not applicable |
| Sword Beans (Dao Dou) | Not applicable |
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Foxnut Seeds (Qian Shi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Yi Huang Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that stabilize and bind" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Foxnut Seeds (Qian Shi) | Yi Huang Tang |
| Nutmeg (Rou Dou Kou) | Not applicable |
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Turmeric (Jiang Huang), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Turmeric (Jiang Huang) | Not applicable |
| Zedoary Rhizomes (E zhu) | Not applicable |
Herbs that expel parasites
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it arises from parasitic infections, utilizing their properties to eliminate parasites from the body.
One such herb is Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Fei Er Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for bloated abdomen
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi) | Fei Er Wan |
| Areca Nuts (Bing Lang) | Fei Er Wan |
Laxative herbs that drain downward
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when there's a need for a milder form of bowel movement to alleviate constipation and regulate digestion.
One such herb is Bush Cherry Pits (Yu Li Ren), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Cathartic herbs that drain downward
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when due to excess accumulation in the intestines and stomach, aiding in eliminating waste and toxins through purgation.
One such herb is Croton Fruits (Ba Dou), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Emblic (Yu Gan Zi), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Fenugreek Seeds (Hu Lu Ba), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Ginger Peel (Sheng Jiang Pi), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it stems from disturbances in the Shen (spirit), often due to instability in the heart and kidney energies.
One such herb is Oyster Shells (Mu Li ke), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs if it arises from internal heat and toxic accumulations, aiding in detoxification and cooling the body.
One such herb is Pu'er Tea (Pu er Cha), which is directly recommended for bloated abdomen.
Herbs that stop bleeding
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs in cases where it is due to internal or external bleeding, working to stabilize and constrict blood flow.
One such herb is Stove Earth (Zao Xin Tu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Huang Tu Tang.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Bloated abdomen can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bloated abdomen, like Wen Pi Tang.