Bipolar Disorderaccording to TCM

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness or manic depression, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings. These include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

During a manic phase, individuals may feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable, while depressive episodes can leave them feeling sad, indifferent, or hopeless. Bipolar disorder affects daily functioning, relationships, and job performance. It's a lifelong condition that requires careful management and is often associated with episodes of psychosis.

How does TCM view Bipolar Disorder?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on bipolar disorder, diverging from Western medical interpretations. TCM sees this condition as a reflection of imbalances in the body's vital energy, or Qi.

It emphasizes that bipolar disorder symptoms stem from various patterns of disharmony, each necessitating specific identification for effective treatment. TCM underscores the holistic approach to health, viewing the body and mind as interconnected and dependent on the balance of Yin and Yang energies.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder According to TCM

In TCM, bipolar disorder is believed to arise from specific internal imbalances. One such pattern is Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart, where an excess of emotional stress or internal conflict causes an imbalance of Qi and leads to symptoms of mania or depression.

Another pattern is Phlegm Misting the Heart, where a disruption in the body's fluid metabolism contributes to mood disturbances. These TCM patterns illustrate the intricate relationship between physical health and mental well-being, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to treatment.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Bipolar Disorder

TCM addresses bipolar disorder with various formulas and herbs, chosen based on the individual's pattern of disharmony. For patterns like Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart, formulas such as Sheng Tie Luo Yin, which includes Oxidized Iron Filings (Sheng Tie Luo), are used for their cooling and calming properties.

To treat patterns such as Phlegm Misting the Heart and Phlegm-Heat, Gun Tan Wan, containing Chlorite Schist (Meng Shi), is recommended. These formulas are part of the broader TCM categories of "Formulas that sedate and calm the Mind" and "Formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm," highlighting TCM’s nuanced approach to treating complex mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address bipolar disorder, organized by formula type.

TCM Herbs for Bipolar Disorder

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address bipolar disorder, organized by herb category.