Uterine Fibroidsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Gynecological Conditions
Did you mean? Ovarian Fibroids
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also known as fibromyomas, leiomyomas, or myomas, these fibroids can range in size from undetectable by the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You might have a single fibroid or multiple ones.
In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage and can add weight. Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they often cause no symptoms. However, fibroids can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, and frequent urination.
How does TCM view Uterine Fibroids?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uterine fibroids are viewed as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's natural systems. TCM does not isolate the fibroids as merely a physical issue but sees them as indicators of underlying disharmonies such as Qi Stagnation, Blood stasis, Dampness accumulation, or an imbalance of Yin and Yang.
Treatment in TCM focuses on correcting these imbalances through a holistic approach that includes herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary modifications, aiming to dissolve the fibroids and restore reproductive health.
Causes of Uterine Fibroids According to TCM
TCM attributes the formation of uterine fibroids to several key patterns, primarily Blood Stagnation and Qi Stagnation, which can lead to the accumulation of Dampness and the formation of masses. Blood Stagnation, often caused by emotional stress, physical trauma, or cold exposure, results in the improper flow of Blood, contributing to the development of fibroids.
Qi Stagnation, associated with emotional upset, can also contribute to the formation of fibroids by disrupting the smooth flow of energy and Blood within the body. Addressing these root causes is essential for the effective treatment and prevention of uterine fibroids in TCM.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Uterine Fibroids
To address the complex issue of uterine fibroids, TCM relies on a variety of herbal formulas designed to invigorate Blood, dispel Blood Stagnation, harmonize the Liver and Spleen, and dissolve Phlegm. Formulas such as Di Dang Tang, Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, Wen Jing Tang, Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan, and Dang Gui Shao Yao San are commonly prescribed based on the specific pattern of disharmony.
These formulas contain potent herbs like Leeches (Shui Zhi), Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), and Rhubarb (Da Huang), known for their effectiveness in promoting Blood circulation, dissolving masses, and alleviating pain.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address uterine fibroids, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Uterine fibroids can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Di Dang Tang, with leech 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 uterine fibroids
Formulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
Uterine fibroids can be treated by these formulas when there's an imbalance between the Liver and Spleen systems, often manifesting as digestive disturbances and emotional fluctuations.
One such formula is Xiao Yao San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Acupoints for Uterine Fibroids
Alongside herbal therapy, acupuncture plays a vital role in the TCM treatment of uterine fibroids. Specific acupoints, such as Fenglong ST-40, are targeted to resolve Dampness and Phlegm, calm the Mind, and subdue Rebellious Qi.
By stimulating these points, TCM practitioners aim to restore the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body, addressing the root causes of fibroids and promoting overall reproductive health. This integrated approach underscores TCM's comprehensive strategy in managing and treating uterine fibroids.
See more details below about Fenglong ST-40, an acupoint used to address uterine fibroids.
- By Meridian
- Stomach Channel
Fenglong ST-40
Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.
TCM Herbs for Uterine Fibroids
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address uterine fibroids, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Uterine fibroids 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 Leeches (Shui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for uterine fibroids, like Di Dang Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for uterine fibroids
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Leeches (Shui Zhi) | Di Dang Tang |
| Tabanus Horseflies (Meng Chong) | Di Dang Tang |
| Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
| Ground Beetles (Tu Bie Chong) | Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan |
| Flying Squirrel Faeces (Wu Ling Zhi) | Not applicable |
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Uterine fibroids 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 uterine fibroids, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Purgative herbs that drain downward" recommended for uterine fibroids
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Rhubarb (Da Huang) | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang | Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan |
| Niter (Xiao Shi) | Not applicable |
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Uterine fibroids 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 Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for uterine fibroids, like Wen Jing Tang.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Uterine fibroids 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 Evodia Fruits (Wu Zhu Yu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for uterine fibroids, like Wen Jing Tang.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Uterine fibroids can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for uterine fibroids, like Xiao Yao San.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Uterine fibroids 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 White Peony Roots (Bai Shao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for uterine fibroids, like Dang Gui Shao Yao San.