Clear Urinationaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Urine Color & Composition Abnormalities
What is Clear Urination?
Clear urination, referred to medically as light-colored or transparent urine, is a common urinary condition. Typically, it indicates a high water content in the urine, which can occur due to various factors such as increased fluid intake or certain dietary habits.
While clear urine is often considered a sign of good hydration, it can sometimes signal specific health issues, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.
How does TCM view Clear Urination?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), clear urination is viewed through a holistic lens, considering the body's overall balance and energy flow. TCM practitioners see symptoms like clear urination as indicators of underlying imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy) and the harmony between Yin and Yang.
They often link it to patterns of Cold, Yang Deficiency, or Heat in the body, affecting organs such as the kidneys, spleen, and bladder. Treatment in TCM focuses on restoring balance and addressing the root cause of the symptom.
Root Causes of Clear Urination in TCM
TCM attributes clear urination to various internal conditions. For example, Exterior-Cold pattern can lead to clear urination, often accompanied by symptoms like aversion to cold, fever, and body pain.
Similarly, Large Intestine Cold may cause clear urination with additional symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Another cause could be Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency, characterized by lower back pain, weak knees, and a pale face. These patterns reflect an underlying disharmony in the body's Qi and its ability to warm and energize the system.
Explore below more details about what might cause Clear urination according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Cold
- Yang Deficiency
- Kidney
- Spleen
- Large Intestine
Cold
In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more
Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Clear Urination
Common Symptoms: Diarrhea Chills Cold Extremities Absence Of Thirst Aversion To Cold Pale Face Low Energy Perspiration
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Empty-Cold | Clear urination, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face, Absence of thirst, Low energy, Perspiration, Diarrhea, Frequent urination... see more | Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang | Da Jian Zhong Tang | Ban Liu Wan |
| Exterior-Cold | Clear urination, Aversion to cold, Fever, Body pain, Stiff neck, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Feeling hot, Chills... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Gui Zhi Tang |
| Large Intestine Cold | Clear urination, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Cold extremities | Liang Fu Wan | Tao Hua Tang |
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 Clear Urination
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency | Clear urination, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more | Li Zhong Wan |
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 Clear Urination
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Weak And Cold Knees Back Cold Sensation Chills Weak Legs Bright Pale Face Erectile Dysfunction Premature Ejaculation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency | Clear urination, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more | Li Zhong Wan |
| Kidneys failing to receive Qi | Clear urination, Exertional dyspnea, Rapid respiration, Weak respiratory, Difficulty breathing in, Chronic coughing, Asthma, Spontaneous sweat, Cold extremities, Facial edema, Emaciation, Low energy, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus... see more | You Gui Wan | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
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 Clear Urination
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency | Clear urination, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more | Li Zhong Wan |
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 Clear Urination
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Large Intestine Cold | Clear urination, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Borborygmi, Cold extremities | Liang Fu Wan | Tao Hua Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Clear Urination
TCM recommends specific herbal formulas based on the underlying pattern. For Exterior-Cold, Ma Huang Tang and Gui Zhi Tang, containing Ephedra and Cinnamon twigs respectively, can be effective. They help clear Wind-Cold and restore balance.
For Large Intestine Cold, Liang Fu Wan and Tao Hua Tang, with herbs like Lesser Galangal Rhizomes and Red Halloysite, can warm the interior and expel cold. In cases of Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency, Li Zhong Wan, with Dried ginger, is beneficial. These formulas are tailored to the individual's specific TCM diagnosis and contribute to a holistic treatment approach.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address clear urination, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Cold
- Yang Deficiency
- Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
- Formulas that clear wind-Cold
- Formulas that warm and purge
- Formulas that warm yang and tonify
- Formulas for a rebellious qi
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that bind up intestines and secure abandoned conditions
Top Formula for Cold:
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause clear urination, such as Empty-Cold
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Clear Urination Caused by Cold
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang | Empty-Cold |
| Da Jian Zhong Tang | Empty-Cold |
| Ban Liu Wan | Empty-Cold |
| Ma Huang Tang | Exterior-Cold |
| Gui Zhi Tang | Exterior-Cold |
| Liang Fu Wan | Large Intestine Cold |
| Tao Hua Tang | Large Intestine Cold |
Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Li Zhong Wan
Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause clear urination, such as Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency
Learn moreFormulas that warm the middle and dispel Cold
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Empty-Cold.
One such formula is Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold" recommended for clear urination
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang | Empty-Cold |
| Da Jian Zhong Tang | Empty-Cold |
| Li Zhong Wan | Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency |
Formulas that clear Wind-Cold
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Exterior-Cold.
One such formula is Ma Huang Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for clear urination
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ma Huang Tang | Exterior-Cold |
| Gui Zhi Tang | Exterior-Cold |
Formulas that warm and purge
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Empty-Cold.
One such formula is Ban Liu Wan, with sulfur as a key herb.
Formulas that warm Yang and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is You Gui Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas for a rebellious Qi
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang, with perilla seeds as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is Ren Shen Ge Jie San, with tokay geckos as a key herb.
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Large Intestine Cold.
One such formula is Liang Fu Wan, with lesser galangal rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that bind up Intestines and secure abandoned conditions
These formulas are suitable for some clear urination-causing patterns like Large Intestine Cold.
One such formula is Tao Hua Tang, with red halloysite as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Clear Urination
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address clear urination, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Herbs for external application
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Clear urination 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 Sichuan Pepper (Hua Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Da Jian Zhong Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold" recommended for clear urination
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Sichuan Pepper (Hua Jiao) | Da Jian Zhong Tang |
| Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang) | Li Zhong Wan |
| Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) | You Gui Wan |
| Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) | You Gui Wan |
| Lesser Galangal Rhizomes (Gao Liang jiang) | Liang Fu Wan |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Clear urination 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 Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for clear urination
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang |
| Maltose (Yi Tang) | Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang |
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Clear urination can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Ephedra (Ma Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Ma Huang Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for clear urination
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Ma Huang Tang |
| Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi) | Gui Zhi Tang |
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Clear urination 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 Deer Antler Glue (Lu Jiao Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like You Gui Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for clear urination
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Deer Antler Glue (Lu Jiao Jiao) | You Gui Wan |
| Tokay Geckos (Ge Jie) | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
Herbs for external application
Clear urination can be treated by these herbs when the condition is external or superficial, requiring topical treatment to alleviate symptoms or heal the affected area.
One such herb is Sulfur (Liu Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Ban Liu Wan.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Clear urination can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Perilla Seeds (Zi Su Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Clear urination 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 Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Liang Fu Wan.
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Clear urination 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 Red Halloysite (Chi Shi Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for clear urination, like Tao Hua Tang.