Intercostal Neuralgiaaccording to TCM

Formulas that promote Qi movement

Intercostal neuralgia can be treated by these formulas if it stems from stagnation or imbalance in the flow of Qi, the vital life energy, within the body.

One such formula is Chai Hu Shu Gan San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.

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

Formulas that tonify Blood

Intercostal neuralgia can be treated by these formulas when it is due to blood deficiency, requiring blood-nourishing and enriching actions.

One such formula is Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang, with white peony root as a key herb.

Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders

Intercostal neuralgia can be treated by these formulas in cases of imbalances in the lesser Yang (Shao Yang) phase, which often involve alternating hot and cold sensations.

One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.

Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation

Intercostal neuralgia 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 Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.

Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Intercostal neuralgia 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 intercostal neuralgia, like Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang.

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

Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency

Intercostal neuralgia 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 Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for intercostal neuralgia, like Yue Ju Wan.

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

Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior

Intercostal neuralgia 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 intercostal neuralgia, like Chai Hu Shu Gan San.

Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency

Intercostal neuralgia 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 intercostal neuralgia, like Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang.