Incoherent Or Confused Speechaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Cognitive Impairment

Root Causes of Incoherent Or Confused Speech in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Incoherent or confused speech according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Pericardium
  • Heart
  • Triple Burner
Detailed description of the cause

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 Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Common Symptoms: Restlessness Thirst Insomnia Aphasia Irritability Nighttime Fever Anxiety Delirium

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in the Blood Delirious speech, Feeling hot, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Hemoptysis, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
Heat in Nutritive Qi level Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Restlessness, Insomnia, Delirium, Incoherent or confused speech, Aphasia, Macules... see more Qing Ying Tang | Bai He Di Huang Tang
Heat in Pericardium Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Chest pain, Rapid respiration... see more Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin
Heat invading the Pericardium Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more Tao He Cheng Qi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Common Symptoms: Restlessness Noisy Breathing Confusion Talking To Oneself Depression Aphasia Coma Loss Of Consciousness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Chest pain, Rapid respiration... see more Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm Misting the Heart Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin
Heat invading the Pericardium Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan
Detailed description of the cause

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 Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Common Symptoms: Noisy Breathing Confusion Talking To Oneself Depression Aphasia Coma Palpitations Flushed Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Chest pain, Rapid respiration... see more Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm Misting the Heart Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin
Detailed description of the cause

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 Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more Tao He Cheng Qi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Common Symptoms: Restlessness Confusion Aphasia Coma Fever Irritability Feeling Of Uneasiness Loss Of Consciousness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Pericardium Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Chest pain, Rapid respiration... see more Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan
Heat invading the Pericardium Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Common Symptoms: Confusion Aphasia Noisy Breathing Talking To Oneself Depression Coma Loss Of Consciousness Hypersomnia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Misting the Heart Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Triple Burner

In TCM the Triple Burner (or San Jiao) is a unique concept rather than a physical organ. It's seen as a system that oversees the flow and balance of Qi and bodily fluids across three regions of the body: the upper (respiratory and cardiovascular systems), middle (digestive system), and lower (urinary and reproductive systems). The Triple Burner facilitates the interaction between these systems, ensuring harmony in bodily functions. When it malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the affected region, such as respiratory issues, digestive problems, or urinary and reproductive disorders. The malfunction can also manifest as general imbalances in energy flow, temperature regulation, and fluid metabolism, reflecting the Triple Burner's role as a coordinator of the body's various processes and its importance in maintaining overall balance and health.... see more

Triple Burner Patterns That Can Lead to Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more Tao He Cheng Qi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Incoherent Or Confused Speech

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address incoherent or confused speech, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that clear nutritive-level heat
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that warm and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that sedate and calm the mind

All Formulas Recommended for Incoherent Or Confused Speech Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Qing Ying Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in Pericardium
Zhi Bao Dan Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan Heat invading the Pericardium
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood
Bai He Di Huang Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level
Hui Chun Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Sheng Tie Luo Yin Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

All Formulas Recommended for Incoherent Or Confused Speech Caused by Mind Disturbance

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Zhi Bao Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan Heat invading the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Di Tan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Gun Tan Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Su He Xiang Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Sheng Tie Luo Yin Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

All Formulas Recommended for Incoherent Or Confused Speech Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Zhi Bao Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Di Tan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Gun Tan Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Su He Xiang Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Sheng Tie Luo Yin Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

All "formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices" recommended for incoherent or confused speech

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Zhi Bao Dan Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan Heat invading the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium

All "formulas that clear nutritive-level heat" recommended for incoherent or confused speech

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qing Ying Tang Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in Pericardium
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for incoherent or confused speech

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Acupoints for Incoherent Or Confused Speech

See more details below about Zusanli ST-36, an acupoint used to address incoherent or confused speech.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
Zusanli ST-36

Zusanli ST-36

3 cun below Dubi ST-35, one finger breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, on the tibialis anterior muscle.