Symptom family: Eye Disorders and Symptoms

What is Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes, a common ocular condition, occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, such as a stinging or burning sensation, redness, and blurred vision.

Often a symptom of various environmental, lifestyle, or physiological factors, dry eyes can affect anyone, particularly those who spend a significant amount of time in front of screens or in dry, windy environments. Managing dry eyes is crucial for maintaining eye health and comfort.

How does TCM view Dry Eyes?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches dry eyes from a holistic and integrative perspective, contrasting with the symptom-focused view of Western medicine. In TCM, dry eyes are not just an isolated ocular issue but are considered a manifestation of systemic imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Yin, and Yang.

TCM emphasizes identifying the underlying patterns of disharmony causing dry eyes, as each pattern necessitates a unique treatment approach. This perspective reflects TCM’s commitment to addressing the root causes of symptoms for holistic healing.

Root Causes of Dry Eyes in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to dry eyes. Commonly, dry eyes are associated with Yin Deficiency, particularly of the Liver and Kidney. This Deficiency implies an imbalance where there is insufficient nourishing and moisturizing elements in the body, leading to symptoms like Dryness. Liver Yin Deficiency may manifest with additional symptoms like dizziness and blurry vision, while Kidney Yin Deficiency can present with lower back pain and tinnitus. Understanding these patterns is essential in TCM for providing an effective and tailored treatment.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Wind
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Yang Excess
  • Liver
  • Kidney
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Eyes

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Limb Numbness Tingling Of Limbs Blurry Vision Dry Hair Skin Dryness Withered And Brittle Nails

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry eyes, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan
Liver Yin Deficiency Dry eyes, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Yi Guan Jian | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Eyes

Common Symptoms: Convulsions Dizziness Coma Tremors Headaches Limb Numbness Poor Memory Insomnia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Interior Wind Dry eyes, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness... see more Si Wu Tang | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Bu Gan Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Dry eyes, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Dry Eyes

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency Dry eyes, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Eyes

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency Dry eyes, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Excess

Yang Excess in TCM refers to a state where there is an overabundance of Yang energy, leading to symptoms of heat and hyperactivity in the body. This pattern of disharmony often arises from factors like stress, excessive physical activity, overconsumption of spicy or heating foods, or an internal imbalance that causes Yang to flare up. Symptoms of Yang Excess include a feeling of heat, red face, irritability, restlessness, thirst, constipation, and a rapid, forceful pulse. Treatment in TCM for Yang Excess aims to cool down and subdue the excessive Yang while nurturing Yin energy to restore balance.... see more

Yang Excess Patterns That Can Lead to Dry Eyes

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Dry eyes, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin 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 Dry Eyes

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Limb Numbness Tingling Of Limbs Blurry Vision Night Sweats Headaches Tinnitus

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry eyes, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Dry eyes, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Yin Deficiency Dry eyes, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Yi Guan Jian | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Dry Eyes

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Dry eyes, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Tiao Gan Tang | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan | Zuo Gui Yin | Si Wu Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Ming Mu Di Huang Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Dry Eyes

To address dry eyes, TCM uses specific formulas and herbs that correlate with the identified disharmonies. For Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency, formulas like Tiao Gan Tang and Qi Ju Di Huang Wan are recommended. These formulations typically contain herbs like Dong quai (Dang Gui) and Prepared rehmannia (Shu Di huang), known for their nourishing properties.

These herbs work to replenish Yin and moisturize the eyes, addressing the root cause of dryness. The choice of herbs is based on a thorough TCM diagnosis, ensuring the treatment aligns with the individual's specific pattern of imbalance.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Wind
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Yang Excess
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Eyes Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Tiao Gan Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
He Che Da Zao Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qing Gu San Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Eyes Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Eyes Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Eyes Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Dry Eyes Caused by Yang Excess

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for dry eyes

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yin Deficiency... see more
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising... see more
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Tiao Gan Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Yin Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for dry eyes

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Wu Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Interior Wind
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind, Liver Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for dry eyes

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind

All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for dry eyes

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
He Che Da Zao Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

Acupoints for Dry Eyes

In TCM, acupuncture is an effective modality for treating dry eyes. Specific acupoints like Dahe KID-12, Zhaohai KID-6, Jingming BL-1, Shenshu BL-23, and Zulingqi GB-41 are targeted to harmonize the underlying imbalances.

These points are selected for their actions in tonifying Kidney Yin, expelling Wind, clearing Heat, and benefiting the eyes. Stimulating these acupoints can help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes and restore balance to the affected channels. The use of acupuncture in TCM reflects a deep understanding of the body's energy pathways and their role in overall health.

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

  • By Meridian
  • Kidney Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
Zhaohai KID-6

Zhaohai KID-6

Approximately 1 cun below the medial malleolus tip, over the joint space between the talus and the calcaneus.

Dahe KID-12

Dahe KID-12

4 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Jingming BL-1

Jingming BL-1

0.1 cun superior and medial to the inner canthus.

Shenshu BL-23

Shenshu BL-23

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).

Yemen TB-2

Yemen TB-2

Proximal to the margin of the web between the ring and small fingers.

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.