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Excessive Menstruationaccording to TCM

Causes Icon 6 causes Herbal Formulas Icon 19 herbal formulas Herbs Icon 27 herbs

Symptom family: Excessive or Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Did you mean? Sudden Period Before Schedule Prolonged Menstruation

What is Excessive Menstruation?

Excessive menstruation, medically known as menorrhagia, is a condition characterized by abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. It can involve a significant increase in the amount of blood lost during each period or the extension of the period beyond the typical duration.

Symptoms often include the need to use multiple sanitary products, passing large blood clots, and experiencing fatigue or anemia due to blood loss. Excessive menstruation can disrupt a woman's normal activities and may signal underlying health issues.

How Does TCM View Excessive Menstruation?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views excessive menstruation as a symptom of imbalance within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on the physical aspects of the condition, TCM looks at excessive menstruation as a sign of disharmony in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood.

This perspective emphasizes identifying and correcting the underlying patterns of disharmony, which can vary from person to person. TCM aims to restore balance and harmony within the body, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of excessive menstruation.

Root Causes of Excessive Menstruation in TCM

TCM attributes excessive menstruation to several potential causes. One common cause is Heat in the Blood, which leads to increased blood flow and can manifest as heavy menstrual bleeding. Symptoms of this pattern include a sensation of heat, thirst, and possibly red skin eruptions.

Another cause can be Qi Deficiency, where the body lacks the strength to regulate menstrual flow properly. This Deficiency can lead to symptoms like generalized fatigue, weakness, and spontaneous sweating. These patterns illustrate how TCM interprets physical symptoms as manifestations of deeper imbalances within the body's energy system.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Heat
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dampness
  • View More Causes
View More Causes
View More Organs
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 Excessive Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Thirst Dark Urine Thick Menstrual Blood Restlessness Feeling Hot Dizziness Sudden Period Before Schedule Dark Menstrual Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Uterus Blood excessive menstruation, excessive periods, heavy menstruation, heavy periods, menorrhagia, profuse menstruation, profuse periods, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Huai Jiao Wan
Heat in the Blood flooding and dribbling, flooding and dripping, flooding and trickling, flooding and leaking, Feeling hot, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Hemoptysis, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more Qing Jing San | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liang Di Tang | Di Gu Pi Yin
Damp-Heat metrorrhagia, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling hot, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Ba Zheng San
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
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 Excessive Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Shortness Of Breath Palpitations Prolonged Menstrual Periods Nocturnal Emission Thin Menstrual Blood Pale Menstrual Flow General Weakness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Deficiency excessive menstruation, excessive periods, heavy menstruation, heavy periods, menorrhagia, profuse menstruation, profuse periods, flooding and dribbling, flooding and dripping, flooding and trickling, flooding and leaking, General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Low energy, Reluctance to speak, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | Ju Yuan Jian | Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency Profuse menstrual bleeding, Menstrual blood gushes out, Excessive menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Thin menstrual blood, Prolonged menstrual periods, Shortness of breath, Palpitations... see more Gu Chong Tang
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 Excessive Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Back Pain Dizziness Tinnitus Night Sweats Scanty Menstruation Pale Menstrual Flow Knee Pain Frequent Urination

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney-Deficiency flooding and dribbling, flooding and dripping, flooding and trickling, flooding and leaking, Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities... see more Liang Di Tang | You Gui Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
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 Excessive Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation excessive menstruation, excessive periods, heavy menstruation, heavy periods, menorrhagia, profuse menstruation, profuse periods, flooding and dribbling, flooding and dripping, flooding and trickling, flooding and leaking, metrorrhagia, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more Si Wu Tang | Shi Xiao San | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Excessive Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Excessive Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat metrorrhagia, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling hot, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Ba Zheng San
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 Excessive Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Back Pain Dizziness Tinnitus Pale Menstrual Flow Knee Pain Frequent Urination Chills Thin Menstrual Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency Profuse menstrual bleeding, Menstrual blood gushes out, Excessive menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Thin menstrual blood, Prolonged menstrual periods, Shortness of breath, Palpitations... see more Gu Chong Tang
Kidney-Deficiency flooding and dribbling, flooding and dripping, flooding and trickling, flooding and leaking, Scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities... see more Liang Di Tang | You Gui Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Excessive Menstruation

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Abdominal Pain That Worsens With Cold Urinary Dysfunction Deep Pain And Heaviness In Limbs Dizziness Heavy Sensation In The Head Edema Diarrhea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency Profuse menstrual bleeding, Menstrual blood gushes out, Excessive menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Thin menstrual blood, Prolonged menstrual periods, Shortness of breath, Palpitations... see more Gu Chong Tang
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Excessive Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Uterus Blood excessive menstruation, excessive periods, heavy menstruation, heavy periods, menorrhagia, profuse menstruation, profuse periods, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Huai Jiao Wan
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 Excessive Menstruation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Zuo Gui Wan | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Excessive Menstruation

To treat excessive menstruation, TCM practitioners often use specific formulas and herbs based on the identified pattern of disharmony. For Heat in the Blood, formulas such as Huai Jiao Wan, which includes Pagoda tree pods (Huai jiao), are used to cool the Blood and stop bleeding.

In cases of Qi Deficiency, Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, containing Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), may be prescribed to tonify Qi and stabilize the menstrual flow. These treatments are tailored to the individual's unique pattern of disharmony, aiming to alleviate the symptoms of excessive menstruation by restoring the natural balance within the body.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Heat
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dampness
  • View More Causes
View More Causes
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that clear blood-Heat
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
View More Types

Top Formula for Heat:
Liang Di Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Heat in the Blood or Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Excessive Menstruation Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liang Di Tang Heat in the Blood, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Huai Jiao Wan Heat in Uterus Blood
Qing Jing San Heat in the Blood
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Heat in the Blood
Di Gu Pi Yin Heat in the Blood
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Ba Zheng San Damp-Heat

Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang

Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Qi Deficiency

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Excessive Menstruation Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang Qi Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi Deficiency
Ju Yuan Jian Qi Deficiency
Gu Chong Tang Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency

Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Liang Di Tang

Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Kidney-Deficiency or Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Excessive Menstruation Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liang Di Tang Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
You Gui Wan Kidney-Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Si Wu Tang

Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Blood Stagnation

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Excessive Menstruation Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Si Wu Tang Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Blood Stagnation
Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang Blood Stagnation

Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang

Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency

Learn more

Top Formula for Dampness:
Ba Zheng San

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause excessive menstruation, such as Damp-Heat

Learn more

Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood or Kidney-Deficiency.

One such formula is Liang Di Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for excessive menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liang Di Tang Heat in the Blood, Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood... see more
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney-Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Di Gu Pi Yin Heat in the Blood
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

Formulas that tonify Qi and Blood

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Qi Deficiency or Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency.

One such formula is Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that tonify qi and blood" recommended for excessive menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang Qi Deficiency, Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi Deficiency

Formulas that tonify Qi

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Qi Deficiency.

One such formula is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for excessive menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency
Ju Yuan Jian Qi Deficiency

Formulas that tonify Blood

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation.

One such formula is Si Wu Tang, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for excessive menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Wu Tang Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Blood Stagnation

Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation.

One such formula is Shi Xiao San, with cattail pollen as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for excessive menstruation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Shi Xiao San Blood Stagnation
Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang Blood Stagnation

Formulas that stop bleeding

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Heat in Uterus Blood.

One such formula is Huai Jiao Wan, with pagoda tree pods as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Blood-Heat

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.

One such formula is Qing Jing San, with goji tree root-bark as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.

One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.

Formulas that warm Yang and tonify

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Kidney-Deficiency.

One such formula is You Gui Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.

One such formula is Ba Zheng San, with chinese pink herb as a key herb.

Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge

These formulas are suitable for some excessive menstruation-causing patterns like Spleen and Kidney Qi Deficiency.

One such formula is Gu Chong Tang, with cornelian cherries as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Excessive Menstruation

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address excessive menstruation, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that invigorate the blood
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Herbs that stop bleeding
  • Herbs that stabilize and bind
  • Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
  • Herbs that cool the blood
  • Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
  • Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
  • Herbs that drain dampness
  • Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
  • Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
View More Categories

Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Excessive menstruation 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 Flying Squirrel Faeces (Wu Ling Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Shi Xiao San.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Flying Squirrel Faeces (Wu Ling Zhi) Shi Xiao San
Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Safflowers (Hong Hua) Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao) Not applicable
Spikemoss (Juan Bai) Not applicable

Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency

Excessive menstruation 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 excessive menstruation, like Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

Herbs that stop bleeding

Excessive menstruation 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 Cattail Pollen (Pu Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Shi Xiao San.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that stop bleeding" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Cattail Pollen (Pu Huang) Shi Xiao San
Pagoda Tree Pods (Huai jiao) Huai Jiao Wan

Herbs that stabilize and bind

Excessive menstruation 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 Cornelian Cherries (Shan Zhu Yu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Gu Chong Tang.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that stabilize and bind" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Cornelian Cherries (Shan Zhu Yu) Gu Chong Tang
Red Halloysite (Chi Shi Zhi) Not applicable

Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency

Excessive menstruation 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 excessive menstruation, like You Gui Wan.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Deer Antler Glue (Lu Jiao Jiao) You Gui Wan
Japanese Teasel Roots (Xu Duan) Not applicable

Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency

Excessive menstruation can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.

One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Si Wu Tang.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) Si Wu Tang | Zuo Gui Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
White Peony Roots (Bai Shao) Si Wu Tang

Herbs that cool the Blood

Excessive menstruation 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 Goji Tree Root Bark (Di Gu Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Qing Jing San.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Goji Tree Root Bark (Di Gu Pi) Qing Jing San | Di Gu Pi Yin
Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang) Liang Di Tang | Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang

Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold

Excessive menstruation 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 excessive menstruation, like You Gui Wan.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) You Gui Wan
Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) You Gui Wan

Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency

Excessive menstruation can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.

One such herb is Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Er Zhi Wan.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi) Er Zhi Wan
Eclipta Herbs (Mo han lian) Er Zhi Wan

Herbs that drain Dampness

Excessive menstruation 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 Chinese Pink Herbs (Qu Mai), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Ba Zheng San.

Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.

"Herbs that drain Dampness" recommended for excessive menstruation

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Chinese Pink Herbs (Qu Mai) Ba Zheng San
Knotgrass (Bian Xu) Ba Zheng San

Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit

Excessive menstruation 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 Fluorite (Zi Shi Ying), which is directly recommended for excessive menstruation.

Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness

Excessive menstruation 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 Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for excessive menstruation, like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.