Polycystic Kidney Diseaseaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Kidney and Nephritic Disorders
Did you mean? Kidney Stones
What is Polycystic Kidney Disease?
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts, filled with fluid, can enlarge the kidneys and impair their function over time.
PKD can lead to complications such as high blood pressure, kidney stones, and kidney failure. It typically manifests in two forms: autosomal dominant PKD, which is more common and appears in adulthood, and autosomal recessive PKD, which is rarer and more severe, often detected in infancy or childhood.
How does TCM view Polycystic Kidney Disease?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches polycystic kidney disease from a holistic perspective, distinct from Western medicine. In TCM, PKD is viewed as a manifestation of underlying imbalances and disharmonies within the body's energy system.
It emphasizes that symptoms of PKD arise from various patterns of disharmony, and identifying these is crucial for effective treatment. TCM's approach is not just about addressing the kidney cysts, but more about restoring overall balance and harmony in the body's systems.
Causes of Polycystic Kidney Disease According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the primary cause of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is seen through the lens of an imbalance in Yin and Yang energies within the body, particularly relating to the Kidney and Liver systems. TCM theory suggests that a Deficiency in Yin and Yang energies can lead to a disruption in the body's natural processes, contributing to the formation of cysts in the kidneys.
The focus in TCM is on correcting this fundamental imbalance, which is considered the root cause of the disease, rather than just addressing the symptoms or the cysts themselves. This perspective highlights the holistic approach of TCM, where the body is seen as an interconnected system, and treatment aims to restore its overall balance and harmony.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Polycystic Kidney Disease
In treating polycystic kidney disease, TCM utilizes a range of formulas and herbs that correspond to the identified patterns of disharmony. Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang, such as Er Xian Tang, are often recommended. This particular formula includes herbs like Curculigo Rhizomes (Xian Mao), known for their properties in addressing Yang deficiency and targeting the Spleen, Kidney, and Liver.
Such treatments in TCM aim to not just alleviate the symptoms but to address the deeper imbalances contributing to PKD, promoting overall kidney health and restoring the body's natural balance.
See more details below about Er Xian Tang, a herbal formula used to address polycystic kidney disease.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
Polycystic kidney disease can be treated by these formulas if it stems from a deficiency in both Yin and Yang energies, necessitating a balanced approach to tonification.
One such formula is Er Xian Tang, with curculigo rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Polycystic Kidney Disease
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address polycystic kidney disease, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Polycystic kidney disease 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 Curculigo Rhizomes (Xian Mao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for polycystic kidney disease, like Er Xian Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for polycystic kidney disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Curculigo Rhizomes (Xian Mao) | Er Xian Tang |
| Epimedium Herbs (Yin Yang Huo) | Er Xian Tang |