Bile Reflux Gastritisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Gastritis Variants
Parent symptom: Gastritis
What is Bile Reflux Gastritis?
Bile reflux gastritis emerges when bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, flows into the stomach and esophagus, irritating the stomach lining. Unlike its counterpart, acid reflux, which involves the backwash of stomach acid, bile reflux involves the presence of bile. This condition can lead to discomfort, including heartburn, nausea, and, over time, can contribute to the inflammation of the stomach lining, known as gastritis. Bile reflux gastritis can significantly impact one's quality of life, causing persistent symptoms that often require medical attention to manage effectively.
How does TCM view Bile Reflux Gastritis?
In the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework, bile reflux gastritis is interpreted through the lens of imbalance and disharmony within the body's internal systems. TCM doesn't recognize bile reflux as a distinct condition but sees its symptoms as manifestations of underlying imbalances such as Qi Stagnation, Phlegm-Heat in the Gallbladder, or Liver and Gallbladder disharmony.
These imbalances disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Body Fluids, leading to the symptoms associated with bile reflux. Identifying and correcting these imbalances is crucial in TCM, aiming to restore harmony and alleviate the condition's manifestations.
Causes of Bile Reflux Gastritis According to TCM
In the eyes of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bile reflux gastritis may arise from patterns such as Heat in the chest and Phlegm-Heat, reflecting an imbalance where Qi Stagnation coexists with Heat, or where Heat transforms Body Fluids into Phlegm. The concept of Qi Stagnation with Heat points to an obstruction in the body’s vital energy flow, combined with an Excess Heat accumulation, often manifesting in the Stomach and chest, leading to symptoms like burning sensations, nausea, and discomfort.
On the other hand, Phlegm-Heat denotes an accumulation of thick, sticky Phlegm mixed with Heat, causing symptoms such as a feeling of fullness, nausea, and a bitter taste in the mouth. TCM treatments aim to dissipate the stagnation, cool the Heat, and eliminate Phlegm to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Bile Reflux Gastritis
For treating symptoms associated with bile reflux gastritis, TCM suggests several targeted formulas. Zhi Zi Chi Tang, leveraging the cooling properties of Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi), is often prescribed to clear Qi-level Heat, addressing the heat and irritation in the stomach.
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang, with Snake Gourds (Gua Lou), targets Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs, which can be linked to the symptoms of bile reflux. Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, incorporating Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao), is selected for its effectiveness in clearing Gallbladder Heat and resolving Phlegm and Heat in the Gall Bladder, a common underlying issue in bile reflux gastritis.
Additionally, Ma Zi Ren Wan is recommended for its moistening effect on the Intestines and its ability to address Large Intestine Dryness, ensuring smoother digestion and alleviating discomfort. These formulas exemplify TCM's holistic approach, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying imbalances contributing to the condition.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address bile reflux gastritis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that clear qi-level heat
- Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that moisten intestines and unblock bowels
Formulas that clear Qi-level Heat
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these formulas when it results from an intense heat condition at the qi level, affecting the body's energy flow.
One such formula is Zhi Zi Chi Tang, with cape jasmine fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm if it is linked to heat leading to phlegm accumulation.
One such formula is Xiao Xian Xiong Tang, with snake gourd as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these formulas in cases of imbalances in the lesser Yang (Shao Yang) phase, which often involve alternating hot and cold sensations.
One such formula is Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, with sweet wormwood herb as a key herb.
Formulas that moisten Intestines and unblock bowels
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these formulas if it results from dryness affecting the intestines, leading to constipation or difficulty in bowel movement.
One such formula is Ma Zi Ren Wan, with hemp seeds as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Bile Reflux Gastritis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address bile reflux gastritis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Cool herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Laxative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bile reflux gastritis, like Zhi Zi Chi Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat" recommended for bile reflux gastritis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi) | Zhi Zi Chi Tang |
| Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao) | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang |
Cool herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these herbs when it is related to heat-phlegm accumulation, aiding in dissolving phlegm and soothing the respiratory system.
One such herb is Snake Gourds (Gua Lou), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bile reflux gastritis, like Xiao Xian Xiong Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bile reflux gastritis, like Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang.
Laxative herbs that drain downward
Bile reflux gastritis can be treated by these herbs when there's a need for a milder form of bowel movement to alleviate constipation and regulate digestion.
One such herb is Hemp Seeds (Huo Ma Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for bile reflux gastritis, like Ma Zi Ren Wan.