Pterygiumaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Eye Disorders and Symptoms
What is Pterygium?
Pterygium, commonly known as "surfer's eye," is a medical condition where a conjunctival growth extends onto the cornea. This growth often starts from the inner corner of the eye and can advance towards the pupil, potentially affecting vision.
The condition is typically characterized by a noticeable, raised, pinkish tissue on the white part of the eye, and it's often associated with excessive exposure to sunlight or wind. It can cause discomfort, irritation, and in advanced cases, vision impairment.
How does TCM view Pterygium?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on pterygium, distinct from the anatomical and environmental focus of Western medicine. In TCM, this condition is often interpreted as a manifestation of internal disharmony, particularly related to the Liver and Kidney Channels.
The emphasis is on understanding the underlying imbalances in Qi (vital energy), Blood, and Yin and Yang that contribute to the development of pterygium. Treatment strategies in TCM aim to restore harmony and balance within the body's systems, addressing both the symptoms and the root cause.
Causes of Pterygium according to TCM
In TCM, pterygium is seen as a result of specific patterns of imbalance. One common cause is the Stagnation of Liver Qi, which can lead to an accumulation of Heat and Wind in the Liver Channel. This imbalance can manifest physically as pterygium.
Additionally, a Deficiency in Liver and Kidney Yin can also contribute to the condition. This deficiency can cause a lack of nourishment and moistening of the eyes, leading to the growth associated with pterygium. TCM treatments focus on addressing these root causes through a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Pterygium
For the treatment of pterygium, TCM recommends specific formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation. A key formula in this category is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, which includes Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) as a primary herb. This formula is particularly effective in patterns such as Greater Yang Accumulation of Blood and Blood Stagnation, which are often associated with pterygium.
The use of this formula, along with other supportive treatments, aims to promote blood circulation, clear stagnation, and nourish the affected tissues. It's essential that treatment is tailored to the individual's specific TCM pattern for optimal results.
See more details below about Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, a herbal formula used to address pterygium.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Pterygium can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Pterygium
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address pterygium, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Pterygium 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 Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pterygium, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for pterygium
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
| Motherwort Fruits (Chong Wei Zi) | Not applicable |
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Pterygium 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 Pipewort Flowers (Gu Jing Cao), which is directly recommended for pterygium.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Pterygium 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 Rough Horsetail (Mu Zei), which is directly recommended for pterygium.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Pterygium 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 pterygium, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.