Anal Burningaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Anal and Rectal Disorders and Symptoms

Did you mean? Anus Pain

What is Anal Burning?

Anal burning is a discomforting sensation experienced in the anus, often described as a burning pain. This symptom can be associated with a variety of conditions, ranging from digestive issues like hemorrhoids or anal fissures to infections and skin diseases. The intensity of the pain can vary, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, swelling, or bleeding. Understanding the underlying cause of anal burning is crucial for effective treatment and relief.

How Does TCM View Anal Burning?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), anal burning is seen as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's systems. TCM approaches this symptom by identifying the unique patterns of disharmony that could be contributing to it.

Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on the symptom itself, TCM seeks to understand the root causes based on individual diagnostic methods. This perspective emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach in addressing not only the symptom but also the underlying factors.

Root Causes of Anal Burning in TCM

TCM attributes anal burning primarily to internal Heat conditions. One such condition is Bright Yang Fire in the Stomach and Intestines, where excess Heat leads to symptoms like burning sensations, constipation, and dry stools.

Another common TCM pattern associated with anal burning is Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine, characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea with blood or mucus, and a burning sensation in the anus. These patterns reveal how TCM correlates specific symptoms with broader systemic imbalances, guiding a tailored treatment approach.

Explore below more details about what might cause Anal burning according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
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 Anal Burning

Common Symptoms: Scanty And Dark Urine Excessive Sweating Abdominal Fullness Abdominal Pain Constipation Dry Stools Thirst Feeling Of Heat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Burning sensation in the anus, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine Burning sensation in the anus, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao Tang
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen Burning sensation in the anus, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull headache, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more Lian Po Yin
Heat in the Large Intestine Burning sensation in the anus, Constipation, Mouth burning sensation, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry tongue... see more Ma Zi Ren Wan
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 Anal Burning

Common Symptoms: Scanty And Dark Urine Feeling Of Heat Feeling Of Heaviness Abdominal Pain Abdominal Fullness Diarrhea Hematochezia Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine Burning sensation in the anus, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao Tang
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen Burning sensation in the anus, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull headache, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more Lian Po Yin
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 Anal Burning

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Burning sensation in the anus, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
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 Anal Burning

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Burning sensation in the anus, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Large Intestine

In TCM the Large Intestine is primarily seen as responsible for the absorption of fluids and the excretion of waste. It is closely related to the Lung in terms of energy flow and function, reflecting the interconnectedness of organ systems in TCM. When the Large Intestine malfunctions, it can lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, and an inability to let go of emotional waste, like holding onto grief or stress. This is in line with the TCM view that the physical and emotional aspects of health are deeply connected. An imbalanced Large Intestine can also manifest as skin problems, signifying the organ’s role in eliminating toxins and maintaining balance in the body’s internal environment.... see more

Large Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Anal Burning

Common Symptoms: Scanty And Dark Urine Abdominal Pain Abdominal Fullness Diarrhea Hematochezia Mucous In Feces Smelly Stools Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine Burning sensation in the anus, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao Tang
Heat in the Large Intestine Burning sensation in the anus, Constipation, Mouth burning sensation, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry tongue... see more Ma Zi Ren Wan
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 Anal Burning

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Burning sensation in the anus, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi 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 Anal Burning

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines Burning sensation in the anus, Afternoon fever, Excessive sweating, Sweating on limbs, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Dry stools, Thirst, Dark urine, Anal burning, Irritability, Delirium... see more Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Xiao Cheng Qi 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 Anal Burning

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen Burning sensation in the anus, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull headache, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more Lian Po Yin

TCM Herbal Formulas for Anal Burning

In treating anal burning, TCM utilizes various formulas and herbs based on the identified patterns. For Bright Yang Fire, formulas like Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang, which includes Rhubarb, are used to purge Heat accumulation.

In cases of Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine, remedies like Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang, featuring Kudzu Roots, are prescribed to release the Exterior and clear the Interior. These formulas are chosen carefully to address the specific type of Heat or Damp-Heat causing the anal burning, illustrating TCM’s nuanced approach to symptom management.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that purge heat accumulation
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that moisten intestines and unblock bowels

All Formulas Recommended for Anal Burning Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Shao Yao Tang Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Lian Po Yin Damp-Heat invading the Spleen
Ma Zi Ren Wan Heat in the Large Intestine

All Formulas Recommended for Anal Burning Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Shao Yao Tang Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Lian Po Yin Damp-Heat invading the Spleen

All Formulas Recommended for Anal Burning Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

All Formulas Recommended for Anal Burning Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

All "formulas that purge heat accumulation" recommended for anal burning

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang Bright Yang Fire in Stomach and Intestines

TCM Herbs for Anal Burning

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address anal burning, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
  • Purgative herbs that drain downward
  • Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
  • Laxative herbs that drain downward

"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for anal burning

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian) Shao Yao Tang | Lian Po Yin
Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin) Shao Yao Tang