Confusionaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Cognitive Impairment
Sub-symptom(s): Incoherent Or Confused Speech Decreased Mental Sharpness
Did you mean? Head Fog
What is Confusion?
Confusion, in a medical context, refers to a state of impaired mental clarity, often characterized by difficulty in understanding, disorientation, and an inability to think clearly. It can manifest as trouble focusing, making decisions, or recognizing familiar people or places. This condition can range from mild cognitive lapses to severe disorientation, where the individual is unable to perform even simple tasks or follow basic instructions. Confusion can arise suddenly or develop gradually, depending on the underlying cause, which may include infections, metabolic disturbances, or neurological conditions.
How Does TCM View Confusion?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches confusion quite differently from Western medicine. In TCM, confusion is not seen as a standalone condition but as a symptom of various patterns of disharmony within the body. These patterns can involve imbalances of Qi, Blood, Phlegm, or Heat, each contributing to the disruption of mental clarity in different ways. The key to effective treatment in TCM is identifying the specific pattern responsible for the confusion, as this determines the appropriate therapeutic approach, including herbal formulas and acupuncture.
Root Causes of Confusion in TCM
In TCM, confusion can be caused by several different patterns of disharmony. One common cause is Phlegm, which can obstruct the Heart and Pericardium, leading to symptoms like mental fog, incoherent speech, and even loss of consciousness. For instance, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium presents with signs such as restlessness, vivid dreaming, and noisy breathing.
Another significant pattern is Heat in the Pericardium, where intense internal Heat disturbs the Mind, resulting in delirium and nighttime fever. These patterns highlight how TCM views confusion as a manifestation of deeper systemic imbalances, rather than a standalone issue.
Explore below more details about what might cause Confusion according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Heat
- Mind Disturbance
- Phlegm
- View More Causes
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 Confusion
Common Symptoms: Incoherent Or Confused Speech Restlessness Aphasia Insomnia Thirst Nighttime Fever Delirium Coma
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat in Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan |
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
| Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
| Heat in the Blood | Delirious speech, Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more | Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang |
| Heat in Nutritive Qi level | Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Restlessness, Insomnia, Delirium, Incoherent or confused speech, Aphasia, Macules... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Bai He Di Huang Tang |
| Heat invading the Pericardium | Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more | Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan |
| Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner | Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
Mind Disturbance
In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more
Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
Common Symptoms: Incoherent Or Confused Speech Noisy Breathing Restlessness Talking To Oneself Depression Aphasia Coma Palpitations
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
| Phlegm Misting the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
| Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
| Heat invading the Pericardium | Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more | Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan |
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
Common Symptoms: Noisy Breathing Incoherent Or Confused Speech Talking To Oneself Depression Aphasia Coma Palpitations Flushed Face
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
| Phlegm Misting the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
| Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
Blood Deficiency
Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more
Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation | Disorientation, Confusion, Melancholia, Crying, Abnormal behavior, Insomnia, Yawning | Gan Mai Da Zao Tang |
Qi Stagnation
Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more
Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation | Disorientation, Confusion, Melancholia, Crying, Abnormal behavior, Insomnia, Yawning | Gan Mai Da Zao Tang |
Blood Stasis
Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more
Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner | Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
Essence Deficiency
In TCM "Essence" (Jing) deficiency refers to a depletion of the body's fundamental substance, which is vital for growth, development, reproduction, and overall vitality. Jing, often translated as "Essence," is a unique concept in TCM, seen as the basis of all life activities and inherited from our parents. Essence deficiency manifests in various symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, weakness, slow physical or mental development, fertility issues, premature aging, weak bones, and a lackluster complexion. It can also affect the hair, leading to premature greying or hair loss. This pattern of disharmony often arises from congenital factors, chronic illness, overwork, or excessive behaviors that drain the body's resources. ... see more
Essence Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Essence Deficiency | Mental dullness, Decreased mental sharpness, Deafness, Retardation, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more | Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Huan Shao Dan |
Heart
In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more
Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
Common Symptoms: Abnormal Behavior Insomnia Incoherent Or Confused Speech Aphasia Noisy Breathing Talking To Oneself Depression Coma
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation | Disorientation, Confusion, Melancholia, Crying, Abnormal behavior, Insomnia, Yawning | Gan Mai Da Zao Tang |
| Phlegm Misting the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
| Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
Pericardium
In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more
Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
Common Symptoms: Incoherent Or Confused Speech Aphasia Coma Restlessness Nighttime Fever Delirium Cold Extremities Feeling Of Heat
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat in Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan |
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Mental confusion, Incoherent speech, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
| Heat invading the Pericardium | Delirious speech, Fever, Irritability, Restlessness, Feeling of uneasiness, Incoherent or confused speech, Loss of consciousness, Viral encephalitis, Meningitis, Pertussis, Measles induced pneumonia... see more | Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan |
Liver
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation | Disorientation, Confusion, Melancholia, Crying, Abnormal behavior, Insomnia, Yawning | Gan Mai Da Zao Tang |
Triple Burner
In TCM the Triple Burner (or San Jiao) is a unique concept rather than a physical organ. It's seen as a system that oversees the flow and balance of Qi and bodily fluids across three regions of the body: the upper (respiratory and cardiovascular systems), middle (digestive system), and lower (urinary and reproductive systems). The Triple Burner facilitates the interaction between these systems, ensuring harmony in bodily functions. When it malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the affected region, such as respiratory issues, digestive problems, or urinary and reproductive disorders. The malfunction can also manifest as general imbalances in energy flow, temperature regulation, and fluid metabolism, reflecting the Triple Burner's role as a coordinator of the body's various processes and its importance in maintaining overall balance and health.... see more
Triple Burner Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner | Delirious speech, Lower abdominal pain, Nighttime fever, Incoherent or confused speech, Irritability, Restlessness, Thirst, Amenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, Uterine fibroids, Retained placenta... see more | Tao He Cheng Qi Tang |
Kidney
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Confusion
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Essence Deficiency | Mental dullness, Decreased mental sharpness, Deafness, Retardation, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more | Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Huan Shao Dan |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Confusion
In TCM, the treatment of confusion is tailored to the specific pattern of disharmony identified in the patient. For cases involving Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, the formula Zhi Bao Dan is often used, as it clears Heat and opens the sensory orifices. If Phlegm is obstructing the Heart, leading to severe confusion and hypersomnia, Wen Dan Tang is recommended to transform Phlegm and calm the Mind. These formulas, rich in specific herbs like Water Buffalo Horns and Crow-Dipper Rhizomes, are chosen based on their ability to address the underlying causes of the mental confusion.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address confusion, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Heat
- Mind Disturbance
- Phlegm
- View More Causes
Top Formula for Heat:
Wen Dan Tang
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause confusion, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Confusion Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Qing Ying Tang | Heat in Pericardium, Heat in Nutritive Qi level |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan | Heat invading the Pericardium |
| Tao He Cheng Qi Tang | Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner |
| Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Bai He Di Huang Tang | Heat in Nutritive Qi level |
Top Formula for Mind Disturbance:
Wen Dan Tang
Suitable for Mind Disturbance patterns that may cause confusion, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Confusion Caused by Mind Disturbance
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Di Tan Tang | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Su He Xiang Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan | Heat invading the Pericardium |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wen Dan Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause confusion, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Confusion Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Di Tan Tang | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Su He Xiang Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
| Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause confusion, such as Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation
Learn more
Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause confusion, such as Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation
Learn more
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause confusion, such as Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Learn more
Top Formula for Essence Deficiency:
Zuo Gui Wan
Suitable for Essence Deficiency patterns that may cause confusion, such as Kidney Essence Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Confusion Caused by Essence Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Tu Si Zi Wan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Huan Shao Dan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
Formulas that clear Heat and open sensory orifices
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Heat in Pericardium or Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium.
One such formula is Zhi Bao Dan, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Zhi Bao Dan | Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Niu Huang Qing Xin Wan | Heat invading the Pericardium |
Formulas that clear nutritive-level Heat
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Heat in Pericardium or Heat in Nutritive Qi level.
One such formula is Qing Ying Tang, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear nutritive-level heat" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Qing Ying Tang | Heat in Pericardium, Heat in Nutritive Qi level |
| Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Heat in the Blood |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Wen Dan Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, with light wheat as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Gan Mai Da Zao Tang | Heart Blood Deficiency with Liver Qi Stagnation |
| Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Not applicable |
Formulas that warm Yang and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Kidney Essence Deficiency.
One such formula is Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan, with cuscuta seeds as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that warm yang and tonify" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Tu Si Zi Wan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Kidney Essence Deficiency.
One such formula is Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan, with fleeceflower root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for confusion
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
| Huan Shao Dan | Kidney Essence Deficiency |
Formulas that dispel Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Di Tan Tang, with arisaema as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Gun Tan Wan, with chlorite schist as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and open sensory orifices
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Su He Xiang Wan, with styrax resin as a key herb.
Formulas that sedate and calm the Mind
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart.
One such formula is Sheng Tie Luo Yin, with oxidized iron filing as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner.
One such formula is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from Deficiency
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Heat in Nutritive Qi level.
One such formula is Bai He Di Huang Tang, with lily bulb as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some confusion-causing patterns like Kidney Essence Deficiency.
One such formula is Zuo Gui Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Acupoints for Confusion
Acupuncture is a vital part of TCM treatment for confusion, targeting specific points to clear Phlegm, calm the mind, and restore mental clarity. For example, Luoque BL-8 on the Bladder channel helps pacify internal Wind and transform Phlegm, while Xinshu BL-15 calms the mind and is especially effective in treating Heart-related patterns of confusion.
On the Governing Vessel, Shendao DU-11 is used to tonify the Heart and expel Heat, which is particularly useful in cases involving Heat in the Pericardium. By carefully selecting these acupoints, TCM practitioners aim to address both the root causes and the symptoms of confusion.
Explore below some acupoints used to address confusion, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Bladder Channel
- Governing Vessel
- Kidney Channel
Luoque BL-8
1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 5.5 cun superior to the anterior hairline. Or 0.5 cun posterior to Baihui Du-20 at the vertex.
Tianzhu BL-10
1.3 cun lateral to Yamen DU-15 on the posterior midline, 0.5 cun above the posterior hairline, on the lateral side of trapezius muscle.
Xinshu BL-15
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 5th thoracic vertebra (T5).
Mingmen DU-4
On the lower back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).
Shendao DU-11
On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 5th thoracic vertebra (T5).
Juque REN-14
On the midline of the abdomen, 6 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun below the sternocostal angle.
Taibai SP-3
Proximal and inferior to the head of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.
Zusanli ST-36
3 cun below Dubi ST-35, one finger breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, on the tibialis anterior muscle.
Chengling GB-18
1.5 cun posterior to Zhengying GB-17 or 4 cun posterior to the anterior hairline. Or 1 cun anterior and 2.25 cun lateral to Baihui DU-20, which is at the vertex of the head.