Ovarian Cystsaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Gynecological Conditions, Lumps, Swellings & Abscesses
Parent symptom: Cysts
Did you mean? Uterine Cysts
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. Women have two ovaries — each about the size and shape of an almond — located on each side of the uterus. Eggs (ova), which develop and mature in the ovaries, are released in monthly cycles during the childbearing years.
Many women will have ovarian cysts at some point during their lives. While most cysts are benign and may resolve on their own without treatment, some may cause symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pain during bowel movements, menstrual irregularities, or pain in the lower back or thighs.
How does TCM view Ovarian Cysts?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches ovarian cysts not as isolated phenomena but as signals of disharmony within the body's system. TCM practitioners believe that cysts form due to imbalances in the body's vital energy (Qi), Blood, Yin, and Yang, leading to conditions such as Dampness, Phlegm, or Blood Stasis.
Understanding and treating these underlying imbalances is key in TCM, aiming to restore harmony and health to the entire body, not just addressing the cysts themselves.
Root Causes of Ovarian Cysts in TCM
In TCM, the development of ovarian cysts is often attributed to the accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm in the Uterus, leading to blockages and stagnation in the reproductive system, manifest as ovarian cysts, accompanied by symptoms like delayed menstruation, abdominal heaviness, and fatigue.
These conditions reflect an imbalance in the body’s ability to metabolize fluids and maintain the smooth flow of Qi and Blood. Addressing these root causes through TCM practices such as herbal medicine and acupuncture is essential for resolving cysts and promoting overall reproductive health.
Explore below more details about what might cause Ovarian cysts according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Uterus
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 Ovarian Cysts
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen 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 Ovarian Cysts
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen 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 Ovarian Cysts
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Ovarian Cysts
To treat ovarian cysts, TCM utilizes herbal formulas that aim to dry Dampness, transform Phlegm, and regulate Qi. Formulas like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan and Wei Ling Tang are commonly prescribed. Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, containing Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), focuses on regulating Qi and drying Dampness, while Wei Ling Tang, with Water plantain (Ze Xie), works to expel Dampness and promote the draining of fluids. These treatments exemplify TCM’s holistic approach, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying imbalances contributing to the formation of ovarian cysts.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address ovarian cysts, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause ovarian cysts, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Ovarian Cysts Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| 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 Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause ovarian cysts, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Ovarian Cysts Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| 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 |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some ovarian cysts-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 ovarian cysts
| 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 expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some ovarian cysts-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 ovarian cysts-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wan Dai Tang, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Ovarian Cysts
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address ovarian cysts, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for ovarian cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Flying Squirrel Faeces (Wu Ling Zhi) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Wan Dai Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for ovarian cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Wan Dai Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Wan Dai Tang |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Wei Ling Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Ovarian cysts 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 ovarian cysts, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.