Alternating Diarrhea And Constipationaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Stool and Bowel Irregularities, Diarrhea and Dysentery
Did you mean? Irregular Defecation
What is Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation?
Alternating diarrhea and constipation is a fluctuating bowel pattern experienced by individuals, where they oscillate between loose stools and hard, difficult-to-pass stools. This condition reflects an imbalance in digestive function and can significantly affect one's quality of life.
It may be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation. Understanding this condition's underlying causes is essential for effective management and relief.
How does TCM view Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches alternating diarrhea and constipation as a sign of disharmony within the body's energy systems, particularly involving the Spleen, Liver, and Gallbladder. TCM posits that a balanced flow of Qi (vital energy) and proper Yin and Yang balance are crucial for healthy digestive functions.
Factors such as emotional stress, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices can disrupt this balance, leading to symptoms like alternating bowel habits. TCM treatments aim to restore harmony and balance, focusing on the underlying patterns of disharmony rather than just the symptoms.
Root Causes of Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation in TCM
In TCM, alternating diarrhea and constipation is often attributed to several disharmony patterns such as Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder and Liver Qi Stagnation. Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder can manifest as loose stools or constipation, accompanied by symptoms like hypochondriac pain, nausea, and a feeling of heat.
On the other hand, Liver Qi Stagnation is characterized by emotional stress affecting the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as hypochondriac distention and mood swings. These patterns highlight the intricate relationship between emotional well-being and physical health in TCM, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to treatment.
Explore below more details about what might cause Alternating diarrhea and constipation according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Stagnation
- Qi Rebellion
- Dampness
- Heat
- View More Causes
- Liver
- Pericardium
- Gallbladder
- Stomach
- View More Organs
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Qi Stagnation | Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian |
Qi Rebellion
Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more
Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen | Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more | Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang |
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder | Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder | Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
Common Symptoms: Abdominal Distention Irritability Abdominal Pain Hypochondriac Distention Chest Distension Upper Abdominal Distension Sighing Melancholia
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Qi Stagnation | Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian |
| Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen | Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more | Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang |
Pericardium
In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more
Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen | Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more | Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang |
Gallbladder
In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more
Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder | Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Stomach
In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more
Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Food Stagnation in the Stomach | Loose stools or constipation, Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, Nausea, Vomiting of sour fluids, Bad breath, Acid reflux, Belching, Insomnia, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Lack of appetite, Abdominal pain due to overeating... see more | Bao He Wan | Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan | Gua Di San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
For treating alternating diarrhea and constipation, TCM relies on herbal formulas to target the specific patterns of disharmony. For Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder, Yin Chen Hao Tang is often prescribed to clear Heat and expel Dampness, using herbs like Virgate wormwood.
For Liver Qi Stagnation, Xiao Yao San and its variation Jia Wei Xiao Yao San are commonly used to harmonize the Liver and Spleen, alleviating stress and restoring digestive balance.
When Rebellious Liver Qi affects the Spleen, formulas such as Tong Xie Yao Fang are utilized to soothe the Liver and strengthen the Spleen, addressing the root cause of the symptoms. These formulas exemplify TCM's nuanced approach to treating digestive irregularities by focusing on restoring balance and harmony within the body's systems.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address alternating diarrhea and constipation, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Stagnation
- Qi Rebellion
- Dampness
- Heat
- View More Causes
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
- Formulas that induce vomiting
Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Xiao Yao San
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, such as Liver Qi Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation Caused by Qi Stagnation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Yue Ju Wan | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Yi Guan Jian | Liver Qi Stagnation |
Top Formula for Qi Rebellion:
Xiao Yao San
Suitable for Qi Rebellion patterns that may cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, such as Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation Caused by Qi Rebellion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen |
| Tong Xie Yao Fang | Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Yin Chen Hao Tang
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, such as Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Learn more
Top Formula for Heat:
Yin Chen Hao Tang
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, such as Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Learn moreFormulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation or Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen.
One such formula is Xiao Yao San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Tong Xie Yao Fang | Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen |
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Yue Ju Wan, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Yue Ju Wan | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Food Stagnation in the Stomach.
One such formula is Bao He Wan, with hawthorn berry as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Bao He Wan | Food Stagnation in the Stomach |
| Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan | Food Stagnation in the Stomach |
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Yi Guan Jian
Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder.
One such formula is Yin Chen Hao Tang, with virgate wormwood as a key herb.
Formulas that induce vomiting
These formulas are suitable for some alternating diarrhea and constipation-causing patterns like Food Stagnation in the Stomach.
One such formula is Gua Di San, with melon stalk as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address alternating diarrhea and constipation, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that relieve food stagnation
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Xiao Yao San.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Yue Ju Wan.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Yue Ju Wan.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Tong Xie Yao Fang.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 Virgate Wormwood (Yin Chen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Yin Chen Hao Tang.
Herbs that relieve Food Stagnation
Alternating diarrhea and constipation can be treated by these herbs in cases of digestive disturbances due to overeating or consuming hard-to-digest foods, assisting in breaking down and moving food through the digestive system.
One such herb is Hawthorn Berries (Shan Zha), a key herb in some formulas recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Bao He Wan.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 Immature Bitter Oranges (Zhi Shi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Alternating diarrhea and constipation 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 alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Alternating diarrhea and constipation can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Melon Stalks (Gua Di ), a key herb in some formulas recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation, like Gua Di San.