Scanty Menstruationaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Abnormal Menstrual Flow, Texture or Color
Parent symptom: Scanty Menstruation
Sub-symptom(s): Scanty Menstruation Decreased Menstrual Flow
What is Scanty Menstruation?
Scanty menstruation, often referred to as oligomenorrhea, is a condition characterized by menstrual periods that are unusually light or brief. This symptom encompasses various forms, including light menstrual flow and decreased menstrual flow, reflecting different degrees of menstrual insufficiency.
The deviation from normal menstrual patterns indicates an underlying irregularity that can be influenced by various factors.
How does TCM view Scanty Menstruation?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches scanty menstruation through a holistic lens, viewing it as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's Qi (vital energy) and blood. TCM doesn't isolate menstrual issues but rather sees them as part of a larger systemic imbalance.
This perspective differs from Western medicine by focusing on restoring overall harmony and addressing root causes like Blood Deficiency, Yin Deficiency, and Blood Stagnation.
Root Causes of Scanty Menstruation in TCM
In TCM, multiple patterns are recognized as potential causes of scanty menstruation. Blood Deficiency, for instance, is often identified by symptoms such as dizziness, pale lips, and insomnia alongside reduced menstrual flow, indicating a lack of nourishing blood in the body. Similarly, Yin Deficiency might present as back pain, knee pain, dizziness, and a pale menstrual flow, suggesting a depletion of the body's cooling and moistening energy.
Blood Stagnation, another common pattern in TCM, could manifest through symptoms like menstrual cramps, dark menstrual blood, and a dark complexion, pointing to impaired blood circulation. Additionally, Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus is characterized by symptoms like abdominal heaviness, feeling of chest oppression, and generalized fatigue, indicating an accumulation of dampness affecting menstrual regularity.
Explore below more details about what might cause Scanty menstruation according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Blood Deficiency
- Blood Stasis
- Yin Deficiency
- Phlegm
- Qi Deficiency
- Qi Stagnation
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Kidney
- Uterus
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 Scanty Menstruation
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Amenorrhea Pale Lips Poor Memory Insomnia Tingling Blurry Vision Depression
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Deficiency | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Dizziness, Amenorrhea, Dull shallow face, Pale lips, Poor memory, Insomnia | Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Si Wu Tang |
| Qi and Blood Deficiency | Menstruation decreases gratually, 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 | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang |
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 Scanty Menstruation
Common Symptoms: Dark Face Purple Lips Stabbing Fixed Pain Abdominal Masses Purple Nails Menstrual Cramps Dark Menstrual Clots Dark Menstrual Blood
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Stagnation | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang |
| Qi And Blood Stagnation | Menstruation decreases gratually, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang |
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 Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney-Deficiency | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face... see more | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan |
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Menstruation decreases gratually, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
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 Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Qi and Blood Deficiency | Menstruation decreases gratually, 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 | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang |
Qi Stagnation
Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more
Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Qi And Blood Stagnation | Menstruation decreases gratually, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang |
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 Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Menstruation decreases gratually, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
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 Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney-Deficiency | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Back pain, Knee pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Frequent urination, Late menstruation, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale face... see more | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan |
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 Scanty Menstruation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Scanty periods, hypomenorrhea, hypomenorrhoea, scanty menstruation, Menstruation decreases gratually, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Scanty Menstruation
In treating scanty menstruation, TCM practitioners often prescribe specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient's unique pattern. For Blood Deficiency, formulas such as Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang and Si Wu Tang, containing Ginseng and Prepared Rehmannia, are utilized to enhance blood nourishment. Addressing Yin Deficiency might involve the use of Dang Gui Di Huang Yin and Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, with key herbs like Dong quai and Milkvetch Roots, aimed at replenishing the body's Yin energy.
To combat Blood Stagnation, Tao Hong Si Wu Tang and Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang are often recommended, leveraging the blood-invigorating properties of Peach Kernels and Szechuan Lovage Roots.
For conditions like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, formulas like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan and Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang, incorporating Coco-Grass Rhizomes and Dong quai, are prescribed to address phlegm and dampness within the body. These treatments are carefully selected based on individual diagnostic patterns, focusing on restoring the body's natural balance and alleviating symptoms associated with scanty menstruation.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address scanty menstruation, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Blood Deficiency
- Blood Stasis
- Yin Deficiency
- Phlegm
- Qi Deficiency
- Qi Stagnation
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Formulas that tonify blood
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that tonify
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that tonify qi and blood
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
- Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
- Formulas that dispel phlegm
Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Qi and Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Blood Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Si Wu Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Gui Pi Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Blood Stagnation or Qi And Blood Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Blood Stasis
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Wu Yao Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Wei Jing Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Kidney-Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Kidney-Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney-Deficiency |
| He Che Da Zao Wan | Kidney-Deficiency |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Qi and Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Gui Pi Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Qi And Blood Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Qi Stagnation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Wu Yao Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Wei Jing Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause scanty menstruation, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Scanty Menstruation Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation or Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Tao Hong Si Wu Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Si Wu Tang | Blood Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney-Deficiency |
| Bu Gan Tang | Not applicable |
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Kidney-Deficiency or Qi and Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Kidney-Deficiency, Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| He Che Da Zao Wan | Kidney-Deficiency |
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation or Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang, with szechuan lovage root 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 scanty menstruation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Blood Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation |
Formulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus or Qi and Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that tonify
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Qi and Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Qi and Blood
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Qi and Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Gui Pi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Wu Yao Tang, with lindera root as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Jia Wei Xiao Yao San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Wei Jing Tang, with common reed rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that dispel Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some scanty menstruation-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Scanty Menstruation
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address scanty menstruation, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Scanty 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 Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scanty menstruation, like Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang |
| Safflowers (Hong Hua) | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang |
| Sweetgum Fruits (Lu Lu Tong) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Scanty 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 Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scanty menstruation, like Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ren Shen Zi Xie Tang | Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang | Gui Pi Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Shi Quan Da Bu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Gui Pi Tang |
| Liquorice (Gan Cao) | Gui Pi Tang |
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Scanty 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 scanty menstruation, like Si Wu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) | Si Wu Tang | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Bu Gan Tang |
| White Peony Roots (Bai Shao) | Si Wu Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang |
| Dong Quai (Dang Gui) | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Scanty menstruation 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 scanty menstruation, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that regulate Qi" recommended for scanty menstruation
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan |
| Lindera Roots (Wu Yao) | Wu Yao Tang |
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Scanty 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 Human Placentas (Zi He Che), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scanty menstruation, like He Che Da Zao Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Scanty menstruation 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 Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scanty menstruation, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Scanty menstruation 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 scanty menstruation, like Jia Wei Xiao Yao San.
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Scanty menstruation can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Common Reed Rhizomes (Lu Gen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for scanty menstruation, like Wei Jing Tang.