Premenstrual Syndromeaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Reproductive Hormonal Disorders, Other Symptoms Associated with Menstruation
Sub-symptom(s): Pre Menstrual Tension Pre Menstrual Breast Distension Perimenstrual Common Cold
What is Premenstrual Syndrome?
Premenstrual Syndrome, widely known as PMS, describes a group of symptoms that occur in women one to two weeks before their menstrual period. These symptoms can range widely in both type and severity, including emotional stress, irritability, breast tenderness, bloating, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
Synonyms like symptoms before menstruation encapsulate the essence of PMS, highlighting its timing in relation to the menstrual cycle. Sub-symptoms such as pre-menstrual tension, breast distension, and the perimenstrual common cold further detail the myriad ways PMS can manifest, affecting each woman uniquely.
How Does TCM View Premenstrual Syndrome?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches Premenstrual Syndrome as a signal of imbalance within the body’s energy systems, particularly involving the Liver and Spleen. TCM posits that PMS results from disruptions in the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, emphasizing the interconnectivity of emotional well-being and physical health.
This holistic perspective underscores the need to identify specific patterns of disharmony, enabling tailored treatments that address both the root cause and its manifestations, diverging from the symptom-focused approach of Western medicine.
Root Causes of Premenstrual Syndrome in TCM
In the Traditional Chinese Medicine framework, premenstrual syndrome is often traced back to disturbances in Liver Qi and its impact on the Spleen. Two prominent patterns recognized for their role in PMS are Rebellious Liver Qi and its intrusion into Spleen territory, coupled with the Spleen’s obstruction by Dampness concurrent with Liver Qi Stagnation.
These conditions illustrate a disharmony where the Liver's smooth flow of Qi is interrupted, leading to emotional volatility and physical discomfort, while Dampness in the Spleen manifests as bloating, fatigue, and digestive issues. Recognizing these patterns is essential in TCM, as it guides the holistic treatment approach aiming not just at symptoms but at the underlying imbalance.
Explore below more details about what might cause Premenstrual syndrome according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Stagnation
- Heat
- Blood Stasis
- Liver
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 Premenstrual Syndrome
Common Symptoms: Depression Mood Swings Irregular Periods Irritability Abdominal Pain Breast Engorgement Globus Sensation Pre Menstrual Breast Distension
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Qi Stagnation | Pre-menstrual tension, Premenstrual tension, Premenstrual breast distension, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Xiao Yao San | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian |
| Qi And Blood Stagnation | Pre-menstrual tension, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more | Xiao Yao San | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang |
| Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Premenstrual tension, Premenstrual breast distension, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling hot, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
| Qi Stagnation | Premenstrual breast distension, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing | Xiao Yao San | Wu Yao Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San |
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 Premenstrual Syndrome
Common Symptoms: Irritability Feeling Hot Flushed Face Thirst Pre Menstrual Breast Distension Excessive Menstruation Constipation Dry Stools
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Premenstrual tension, Premenstrual breast distension, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling hot, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
| Heat in the Blood | Pre-menstrual breast distention, Feeling hot, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Hemoptysis, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Qing Jing San | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liang Di Tang | Di Gu Pi Yin |
Blood Stasis
Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more
Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Premenstrual Syndrome
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Qi And Blood Stagnation | Pre-menstrual tension, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more | Xiao Yao San | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Ge Xia Zhu Yu 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 Premenstrual Syndrome
Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Melancholia Depression Mood Swings Irregular Periods Globus Sensation Pre Menstrual Breast Distension
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Qi Stagnation | Pre-menstrual tension, Premenstrual tension, Premenstrual breast distension, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Xiao Yao San | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian |
| Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Premenstrual tension, Premenstrual breast distension, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling hot, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Premenstrual Syndrome
Addressing PMS from a TCM perspective involves specific formulas designed to smooth the Liver Qi, enhance Spleen function, and resolve Dampness. For the treatment of Rebellious Liver Qi and its invasion into the Spleen, formulas like Si Ni San and Xiao Yao San are foundational. Si Ni San effectively calms the Liver, promoting the proper movement of Qi, while Xiao Yao San further eases Liver Qi Stagnation and supports Spleen health.
When dealing with the obstruction of the Spleen by Dampness, in the context of Liver Qi Stagnation, Ping Wei San emerges as a critical formula. It specifically targets Cold-Dampness in the Spleen, restoring balance and mitigating symptoms such as bloating and digestive discomfort. These targeted treatments reflect TCM’s nuanced understanding of PMS, offering a path to harmony and well-being through the meticulous rebalancing of internal energies.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address premenstrual syndrome, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Stagnation
- Heat
- Blood Stasis
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that tonify blood
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
- Formulas that clear liver-Heat
- Formulas that clear blood-Heat
- Formulas that clear heat from the organs
- Formulas that clear exterior disorders with interior deficiency
Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Xiao Yao San
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause premenstrual syndrome, such as Liver Qi Stagnation or Qi And Blood Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Premenstrual Syndrome Caused by Qi Stagnation
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Wu Yao Tang | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Yue Ju Wan | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Yi Guan Jian | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire |
Top Formula for Heat:
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause premenstrual syndrome, such as Heat in the Blood
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Premenstrual Syndrome Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Heat in the Blood |
| Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire |
| Qing Jing San | Heat in the Blood |
| Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Liang Di Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Di Gu Pi Yin | Heat in the Blood |
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Xiao Yao San
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause premenstrual syndrome, such as Qi And Blood Stagnation
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Premenstrual Syndrome Caused by Blood Stasis
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
| Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Qi And Blood Stagnation |
Formulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation or Qi And Blood Stagnation.
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 premenstrual syndrome
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Heat in the Blood |
| Si Ni San | Not applicable |
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation or Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Wu Yao Tang, with lindera root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for premenstrual syndrome
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wu Yao Tang | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation |
| Yue Ju Wan | Liver Qi Stagnation |
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Yi Guan Jian
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for premenstrual syndrome
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Yi Guan Jian | Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Liang Di Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Di Gu Pi Yin | Heat in the Blood |
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Tao Hong Si Wu Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Qi And Blood Stagnation.
One such formula is Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang, with szechuan lovage root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Liver-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire.
One such formula is Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San, with mudan peony bark as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Blood-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Qing Jing San, with goji tree root-bark as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs
These formulas are suitable for some premenstrual syndrome-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
Formulas that transform Dampness and harmonize Stomach
Premenstrual syndrome can be treated by these formulas when it is due to dampness affecting the stomach, leading to digestive disturbances.
One such formula is Ping Wei San, with black atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
Premenstrual syndrome 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 nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
Premenstrual syndrome can be treated by these formulas when it stems from a disharmony between the heart and the mind, often manifesting as emotional disturbances or sleep issues.
One such formula is Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, with light wheat as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Exterior disorders with Interior deficiency
Premenstrual syndrome can be treated by formulas that clear Exterior disorders with Interior deficiency if it arises from an external pathogen attacking a body with underlying weakness.
One such formula is Cong Bai Qi Wei Yin, with scallions as a key herb.
Acupoints for Premenstrual Syndrome
See more details below about Rugen ST-18, an acupoint used to address premenstrual syndrome.
- By Meridian
- Stomach Channel
Rugen ST-18
In the 5nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.