Symptom family: Body Weight Issues

What is Weight Loss?

Weight loss refers to the reduction of total body mass, which can occur intentionally through dieting and exercise or unintentionally due to underlying health issues. It encompasses various forms including involuntary or unexpected weight reduction, unexplained weight loss, and unintentional weight loss without active efforts.

While often seen as a positive change for overweight individuals, sudden or unexplained weight loss can be a concern, signaling potential health problems.

How does TCM view Weight Loss?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets weight loss differently from Western medicine. TCM practitioners see it as an imbalance in the body's energy system or Qi. Rather than focusing solely on calorie intake and physical activity, TCM considers weight loss a symptom of underlying disharmonies within the body, such as Qi deficiency, Phlegm accumulation, or the presence of internal Wind.

Treatment in TCM is tailored to rebalance these disharmonies, primarily through herbal formulas, acupuncture, and dietary modifications.

Root Causes of Weight Loss in TCM

In TCM, common patterns leading to weight loss include Wind disturbances and Qi Deficiency. The pattern of Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior is marked by symptoms like low-grade fever, hand tremor, and limb twitching, indicative of a deep-seated imbalance.

Another pattern, Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency, manifests through palpitations, poor memory, and lack of appetite. These patterns highlight the holistic approach of TCM, where weight loss is seen as a part of a broader spectrum of bodily disharmonies rather than an isolated symptom.

Explore below more details about what might cause Weight loss according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Wind
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Phlegm
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Cold
  • Dampness
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Common Symptoms: Low Grade Fever Hand Tremor Flushed Cheekbones Low Energy Limb Twitching Swollen And Painful Joints Worsening At Night Joint Stiffness Chills Without Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior Weight loss, Low grade fever, Hand tremor, Flushed cheekbones, Low energy, Limb twitching Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp Weight loss, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Headaches, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior Weight loss, Low grade fever, Hand tremor, Flushed cheekbones, Low energy, Limb twitching Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
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 Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Weight loss, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea... see more Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency Weight loss, Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Skin dryness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency Weight loss, Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Skin dryness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp Weight loss, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Headaches, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp Weight loss, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Headaches, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior Weight loss, Low grade fever, Hand tremor, Flushed cheekbones, Low energy, Limb twitching Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior Weight loss, Low grade fever, Hand tremor, Flushed cheekbones, Low energy, Limb twitching Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Small Intestine

In TCM the Small Intestine plays a critical role in receiving partially digested food from the Stomach and further separating the clear from the turbid, essentially distinguishing nutrients from waste. This process is vital for proper absorption and assimilation of food. The Small Intestine is also associated with clarity of judgment and decision-making. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, poor appetite, or irregular bowel movements. Additionally, a malfunctioning Small Intestine may manifest as mental confusion or difficulty in making decisions, reflecting its role in discernment and clarity in both physical and mental realms. ... see more

Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Weight loss, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea... see more Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Weight loss, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea... see more Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
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 Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency Weight loss, Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Skin dryness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency Weight loss, Palpitations, Poor memory, Restless sleeplessness, Fever, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Exertional dyspnea, Skin dryness... see more Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Weight Loss

For weight loss associated with Empty-Wind, TCM recommends Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, which pacifies internal Wind and invigorates the Blood. In cases of Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal distention and vomiting clear liquid, Xiao Chai Hu Tang is suggested to harmonize the lesser Yang-warp disorders.

For Heart and Spleen Qi and Blood Deficiency, Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang is used to tonify Qi and nourish the blood. These formulas address the root causes of weight loss in TCM by restoring balance and strengthening the body's vital energy.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address weight loss, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Wind
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Phlegm
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Cold
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that dispel wind-Damp
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that harmonize stomach-Intestines
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • Formulas that tonify

All Formulas Recommended for Weight Loss Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Empty-Wind agitating in the Interior
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp

All Formulas Recommended for Weight Loss Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Chai Hu Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine

Acupoints for Weight Loss

TCM also recommends specific acupoints for managing weight loss. Gaohuangshu BL-43 is a significant point, located laterally to the fourth thoracic vertebra. It is known for its efficacy in nourishing Lung Yin, tonifying Qi, and enriching the Heart and Essence. This point is integral in TCM for addressing weight loss as it helps in revitalizing the body's core energy and restoring internal balance.

See more details below about Gaohuangshu BL-43, an acupoint used to address weight loss.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
Gaohuangshu BL-43

Gaohuangshu BL-43

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4).