Abdominal Cold Sensationaccording to TCM

What is Abdominal Cold Sensation?

Abdominal cold sensation is described as a chilling feeling within the stomach or abdominal area, often indicating an underlying imbalance within the body. This condition can manifest as a coldness perceived internally, sometimes accompanied by pain, discomfort, or digestive issues. It's a symptom noted for its specificity—directly pointing toward a coldness inside rather than a general feeling of being cold. Recognizing this sensation is crucial for diagnosing and addressing the root causes effectively in both modern and traditional medical practices.

How Does TCM View Abdominal Cold Sensation?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets the abdominal cold sensation as a sign of an imbalance in the body's natural energy flow or Qi. It suggests the presence of internal Cold, which can stagnate the flow of Qi and blood within the abdomen, leading to discomfort.

TCM emphasizes understanding the underlying patterns of disharmony causing this sensation to tailor a treatment plan that not only alleviates the symptom but also restores the body's harmony and balance.

Root Causes of Abdominal Cold Sensation in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that could lead to an abdominal cold sensation, with Cold invading the Large Intestine and Interior Cold being among the primary causes. These conditions reflect an intrusion of Cold into the body, disrupting the normal function of the intestines and abdominal region.

Symptoms might include diarrhea, chills, and pain that improves with warmth, indicating a deep-seated coldness requiring warming and Qi-moving treatments to restore internal warmth and energy flow.

Explore below more details about what might cause Abdominal cold sensation according to TCM.

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 Abdominal Cold Sensation

Common Symptoms: Postpartum Abdominal Pain Abdominal Pain Diarrhea Chills Hernia-Related Pain Flank Pain Abdominal Pain Relieved By Pressure And Warmth Menstrual Cramps

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Large Intestine	Cold sensation in abdomen, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Chills, Abdominal cold sensation	Liang Fu Wan | Tao Hua Tang
Interior Cold	Cold abdominal, Postpartum abdominal pain, Abdominal cold sensation, Hernia-Related pain, Flank pain, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth... see more	Dang Gui Sheng Jiang Yang Rou Tang | Wu Ji San | Chai Hu Gui Jiang Tang
Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels	Cold in the lower abdomen, Menstrual cramps, Cold sensation in lower abdomen, Infertility, Late menstruation, Dark menstrual clots, Postpartum abdominal pain, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Uterine hypoplasia, Endometrial hyperplasia, Endometriosis... see more	Wen Jing Tang

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 Abdominal Cold Sensation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Large Intestine	Cold sensation in abdomen, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Chills, Abdominal cold sensation	Liang Fu Wan | Tao Hua Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Abdominal Cold Sensation

To counteract the coldness and revitalize the abdomen's warmth, TCM recommends specific formulas such as Liang Fu Wan and Dang Gui Sheng Jiang Yang Rou Tang. These formulas are designed to expel Cold and warm the Interior, utilizing ingredients like Lesser Galangal Rhizomes and Mutton, known for their warming properties. The choice of formula depends on the individual's specific pattern of disharmony, ensuring a personalized approach to treatment that addresses both the symptom and its root cause.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address abdominal cold sensation, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Cold:
Wen Jing Tang

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause abdominal cold sensation, such as Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels

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All Formulas Recommended for Abdominal Cold Sensation Caused by Cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Wen Jing Tang	Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels
Liang Fu Wan	Cold invading the Large Intestine
Tao Hua Tang	Cold invading the Large Intestine
Dang Gui Sheng Jiang Yang Rou Tang	Interior Cold
Wu Ji San	Interior Cold
Chai Hu Gui Jiang Tang	Interior Cold

Acupoints for Abdominal Cold Sensation

Acupuncture points like Fuai SP-16, Sanyinjiao SP-6, Huiyang BL-35, and Shenque REN-8 are invaluable for treating abdominal cold sensations. These points are strategically located to regulate the intestines, tonify the Spleen and Stomach, resolve dampness, and warm the Yang. By stimulating these points, TCM practitioners aim to restore the flow of Qi and blood, eliminate internal Cold, and bring back balance and warmth to the abdominal area.

Explore below some acupoints used to address abdominal cold sensation, organized by meridian.

Sanyinjiao SP-6

3 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the tibia, on the line drawn from the medial malleolus to Yinlingquan SP-9.

Daheng SP-15

On the mammillary line 4 cun lateral to the umbilicus center.

Fuai SP-16

3 cun above the umbilicus center and 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the mamillary line.

Guanyuan REN-4

On the midline of the abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus.

Shenque REN-8

In the center of the umbilicus.

Huiyang BL-35

On either side of the coccyx tip, 0.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline.

Shousanli LI-10

When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 2 cun distal to Quchi LI-11 of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.