Obesityaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Body Weight Issues
Sub-symptom(s): Abdominal Fat
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat to the extent that it may have a negative impact on health. It is typically defined using the body mass index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or above is classified as obese.
Obesity is more than just an issue of physical appearance; it is associated with various health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It encompasses various forms of weight gain, including abdominal fat, and is a growing health concern worldwide.
How does TCM view Obesity?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches obesity as a complex condition resulting from imbalances within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on calorie intake and physical activity, TCM considers obesity a manifestation of disharmony in the body's natural energy flow or Qi.
TCM identifies different patterns of disharmony causing obesity and emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment to restore balance. This holistic approach encompasses diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and acupuncture.
Root Causes of Obesity in TCM
In TCM, obesity is commonly associated with the accumulation of Damp-Phlegm and Qi Deficiency. The Damp-Phlegm pattern, often seen in obesity, is characterized by symptoms like profuse white sputum, feeling of chest oppression, nausea, and swollen limbs. This pattern indicates an imbalance where the body improperly metabolizes fluids and fats.
Another significant pattern is Spleen Qi Deficiency, manifesting as poor appetite control, abdominal distension, fatigue, and weakness. Addressing these underlying imbalances is key to TCM treatment, as it goes beyond mere weight loss to improving overall health and vitality.
Explore below more details about what might cause Obesity according to TCM.
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 Obesity
Common Symptoms: Nausea Generalized Fatigue Feeling Of Oppression Of The Chest Feeling Of Heaviness Vertigo Chest Distension Edema Dizziness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm | Obesity, Overweight, Fat belly, Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Swollen limbs, Abdominal fat... see more | Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Shen Qi Wan |
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Overweight, Obesity, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Phlegm | Obesity, Overweight, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Head fog, Dizziness | Er Chen Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Yue Ju Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang | Xing Su San |
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 Obesity
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Pale Face Weak Limbs Diarrhea Weak Voice
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Obesity, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang |
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Obesity, Overweight, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
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 Obesity
Common Symptoms: Nausea Generalized Fatigue Profuse White Sputum Focal Distention Of The Chest Upper Abdominal Focal Distention Sticky Taste In The Mouth Absence Of Thirst Swollen Limbs
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm | Obesity, Overweight, Fat belly, Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Swollen limbs, Abdominal fat... see more | Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Shen Qi Wan |
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Overweight, Obesity, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
Qi Sinking
Qi Sinking is a pattern of disharmony in TCM where the body's energy, or Qi, is thought to "sink" or drop down. Imagine a balloon slowly deflating and falling; that's similar to what happens with Qi Sinking. This can lead to feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and even physical symptoms like prolapse of organs or frequent urination. It's as if the body's energy, which usually supports and holds things in place, isn't able to do its job properly. TCM views this as an imbalance where the uplifting and supporting qualities of Qi are weakened.... see more
Qi Sinking Patterns That Can Lead to Obesity
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Sinking | Obesity, Overweight, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
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 Obesity
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Pale Face Weak Limbs Diarrhea Weak Voice
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Obesity, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang |
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Obesity, Overweight, Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
| Spleen Qi Sinking | Obesity, Overweight, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
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 Obesity
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Overweight, Obesity, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
Lung
In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more
Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Obesity
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Obesity, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Obesity
To treat obesity, TCM prescribes specific formulas and herbs targeting the root causes. For the Damp-Phlegm pattern, formulas like Er Chen Tang and Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang are used. These contain ingredients like Crow-Dipper Rhizomes, which help transform Phlegm and dry Dampness, and Ginseng, which boosts Qi.
For Spleen Qi Deficiency, Liu Jun Zi Tang and Si Jun Zi Tang are recommended to strengthen the spleen and enhance digestive efficiency. These formulas not only aim at reducing weight but also at restoring the body's natural balance and function.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address obesity, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Qi Deficiency
- Dampness
- Qi Sinking
- View More Causes
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that dispel phlegm
- Formulas that warm yang and tonify
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
- Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
- Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that disperse dryness and moisten
- Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
- Formulas that purge heat accumulation
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Er Chen Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause obesity, such as Damp-Phlegm or Phlegm
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Obesity Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm, Phlegm |
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, Phlegm |
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Phlegm |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Shen Qi Wan | Damp-Phlegm |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Yue Ju Wan | Phlegm |
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm |
| Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Phlegm |
| Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Phlegm |
| Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang | Phlegm |
| Xing Su San | Phlegm |
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause obesity, such as Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency or Spleen Qi Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Obesity Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Fei Er Wan | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause obesity, such as Damp-Phlegm or Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Obesity Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm |
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Shen Qi Wan | Damp-Phlegm |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Qi Sinking:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Suitable for Qi Sinking patterns that may cause obesity, such as Spleen Qi Sinking
Learn moreFormulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Phlegm or Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency.
One such formula is Liu Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for obesity
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Phlegm, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen Qi Sinking, Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm or Phlegm.
One such formula is Er Chen Tang, with crow-dipper 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 obesity
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm, Phlegm |
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, Phlegm |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm |
Formulas that dispel Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm or Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Phlegm.
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 obesity
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Yue Ju Wan | Phlegm |
| Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Phlegm |
Formulas that warm Yang and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm.
One such formula is Shen Qi Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas that expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wei Ling Tang, with water plantain as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wan Dai Tang, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Phlegm.
One such formula is Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Phlegm.
One such formula is Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, with sweet wormwood herb as a key herb.
Formulas that disperse Dryness and moisten
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Phlegm.
One such formula is Xing Su San, with apricot seed as a key herb.
Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some obesity-causing patterns like Spleen Qi Deficiency.
One such formula is Fei Er Wan, with quisqualis fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that release the Exterior and purge the Interior
Obesity can be treated by these formulas if it is due to external pathogens combined with internal accumulation, needing actions that address both aspects.
One such formula is Da Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior" recommended for obesity
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Da Chai Hu Tang | Not applicable |
| Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Not applicable |
Formulas that warm the Meridians and disperse Cold
Obesity can be treated by these formulas if it results from cold obstructing the meridians, leading to pain or stiffness, requiring warming and dispersing actions.
One such formula is Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Formulas that purge Heat accumulation
Obesity can be treated by these formulas if it arises from an excess of internal heat, needing actions that clear heat and reduce its intensity.
One such formula is Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
TCM Herbs for Obesity
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address obesity, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that expel parasites
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that pacify internal liver wind and stop tremors
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Obesity 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 obesity, like Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Wan Dai Tang | Yue Ju Wan |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Wan Dai Tang |
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Obesity 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 obesity, like Shen Qi Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi) | Shen Qi Wan | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang |
| Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
| Perilla Leaves (Zi Su Ye) | Xing Su San |
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Obesity 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 obesity, like Da Chai Hu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Purgative herbs that drain downward" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Rhubarb (Da Huang) | Da Chai Hu Tang | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
| Mirabilites (Mang Xiao) | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Obesity 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 Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Er Chen Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that regulate Qi" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi) | Er Chen Tang |
| Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan |
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Obesity 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 obesity, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu) | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang |
| Houpu Magnolia Bark (Hou Pu) | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang |
Herbs that expel parasites
Obesity can be treated by these herbs if it arises from parasitic infections, utilizing their properties to eliminate parasites from the body.
One such herb is Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Fei Er Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for obesity
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi) | Fei Er Wan |
| Areca Nuts (Bing Lang) | Fei Er Wan |
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Obesity 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 obesity, like Da Chai Hu Tang.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Obesity 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 Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Obesity 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 obesity, like Shen Qi Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Obesity 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 Water Plantain (Ze Xie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Wei Ling Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Obesity 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 Dong Quai (Dang Gui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Obesity 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 obesity, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors
Obesity can be treated by these herbs when caused by internal wind from Liver disharmony, often manifesting in symptoms like spasms or tremors.
One such herb is Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Obesity 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 Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Obesity 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 Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang.
Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Obesity can be treated by these herbs when it originates from obstructions in the lung pathways, helping to ease respiratory discomfort and restore normal breathing.
One such herb is Apricot Seeds (Xing Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for obesity, like Xing Su San.