Cushing's Syndromeaccording to TCM

What is Cushing's Syndrome?

Cushing's Syndrome is a complex condition characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This overproduction can stem from various causes, including long-term use of corticosteroid medication or the body's own overproduction of cortisol due to tumors on the adrenal or pituitary glands. The syndrome manifests through a distinctive set of symptoms such as rapid weight gain primarily in the trunk and face, a round moon face, skin changes, and hypertension. Its synonyms, like hyperadrenocorticism and hypercortisolism, underscore the hormonal imbalance at the heart of the syndrome, reflecting its systemic impact on the body.

How does TCM view Cushing's Syndrome?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Cushing's Syndrome is viewed through a holistic lens, focusing on the imbalances and disharmonies that contribute to the manifestation of symptoms. Unlike Western medicine that isolates the condition as an endocrine disorder, TCM interprets it as a result of underlying disharmonies, particularly concerning the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen systems.

The emphasis is on identifying and correcting these imbalances through a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, diet, and lifestyle adjustments, aiming to restore the body's natural equilibrium and addressing the root causes of the syndrome.

Causes of Cushing's Syndrome According to TCM

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the root causes of Cushing's Syndrome can often be traced back to imbalances such as Damp-Heat in the Liver or Stagnant Liver Qi. These imbalances may lead to the overaccumulation of Damp-Heat in the body, mirroring the excess cortisol production seen in Cushing's Syndrome.

TCM practitioners look to these patterns to understand the systemic disharmonies contributing to the condition, focusing on restoring balance and enhancing the flow of Qi throughout the body as a means to alleviate the symptoms associated with Cushing's Syndrome.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Cushing's Syndrome

In addressing Cushing's Syndrome, TCM leans on formulas that aim to clear Heat from the organs and ensure the smooth flow of Liver Qi. One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, which includes Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), known for its bitter and cold properties that help eliminate Damp-Heat from the Liver.

This approach reflects TCM's holistic strategy, targeting the underlying disharmonies believed to contribute to the condition's manifestation. Through such tailored treatments, TCM seeks to rebalance the body's internal environment, offering a complementary perspective to conventional medical treatments for Cushing's Syndrome.

See more details below about Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, a herbal formula used to address cushing's syndrome.

By Formula Type

Formulas that clear heat from the organs

Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs

Cushing's syndrome can be treated by these formulas if it stems from an excess heat condition in specific organs, leading to internal disharmony.

One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Cushing's Syndrome

See more details below about Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), a herb used to address cushing's syndrome.

By Herb Category

Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness

Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness

Cushing's syndrome 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 Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cushing's syndrome, like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.