Acute Nephritisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Kidney and Nephritic Disorders
Parent symptom: Nephritis
What is Acute Nephritis?
Acute nephritis is a rapid-onset inflammation of the kidneys, often arising as a response to infections or autoimmune reactions. This condition disrupts the kidneys' critical functions, such as filtering waste and regulating fluid balance.
Symptoms typically include blood in the urine, swelling, and increased blood pressure. Immediate medical intervention is crucial in acute nephritis to prevent progressive kidney damage and ensure the maintenance of vital bodily functions.
How does TCM view Acute Nephritis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views acute nephritis as a result of systemic imbalances, particularly involving 'Internal Wind' and disharmonies in the Liver and Kidney systems.
This perspective emphasizes restoring balance within the body's energy system, Qi, and addressing the root causes of the condition through a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of various organ systems.
Causes of Acute Nephritis According to TCM
In TCM, the causes of acute nephritis are associated with specific internal disharmonies. A key pattern often linked to this condition is the disturbance of 'Internal Wind,' which can affect the body's stability and lead to symptoms of inflammation in the Kidneys.
This pattern is closely related to imbalances in the Liver and Kidney systems, where an unsettled 'Wind' can disrupt the normal functioning of these organs. Such a disturbance often results from an imbalance in the body's natural energy flow, and TCM aims to address these root causes through its holistic treatment approach.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Acute Nephritis
In addressing acute nephritis, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) advocates for formulas that specifically pacify and extinguish 'Internal Wind'. A prime example is Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, which incorporates Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi).
This formula falls within the category of herbs that invigorate the Blood, crucial for treating conditions affecting the Kidney and Liver. Achyranthes Roots, known for their bitter, sour, and neutral properties, play a key role in this formula, targeting the vital organs to restore balance and alleviate the symptoms associated with acute nephritis. This TCM approach underlines the importance of treating the underlying disharmonies in the body's energy system to effectively manage and heal acute nephritis.
See more details below about Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, a herbal formula used to address acute nephritis.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
Acute nephritis can be treated by these formulas when it is due to internal wind, which is often associated with spasms, tremors, or dizziness.
One such formula is Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, with achyranthes root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Acute Nephritis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address acute nephritis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Acute nephritis 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 Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for acute nephritis, like Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for acute nephritis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi) | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
| Motherwort Herbs (Yi Mu Cao) | Not applicable |
Herbs that stop bleeding
Acute nephritis can be treated by these herbs in cases where it is due to internal or external bleeding, working to stabilize and constrict blood flow.
One such herb is Cogongrass Rhizomes (Bai Mao Gen), which is directly recommended for acute nephritis.
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Acute nephritis can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Ephedra (Ma Huang), which is directly recommended for acute nephritis.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Acute nephritis can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), which is directly recommended for acute nephritis.