Cystsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Lumps, Swellings & Abscesses
Sub-symptom(s): Sebaceous Cysts Ovarian Cysts Lower Abdominal Fibroids And Cysts
What is Cysts?
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in various parts of the body due to a multitude of reasons, including blockages of ducts, infections, or around foreign bodies. They can vary in size and are generally noncancerous. Some common types include sebaceous cysts, which form under the skin, ovarian cysts within the ovaries, and lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, often associated with the reproductive system in women. Their appearance can be alarming, but they are a common condition that can be effectively managed with proper medical attention.
How does TCM view Cysts?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cysts are seen as manifestations of underlying imbalances within the body's Qi (energy) and Blood, influenced by factors like Dampness, Phlegm, or Heat. TCM doesn't just treat the symptoms but aims to identify and correct the pattern of disharmony causing the cysts.
This holistic approach ensures that treatment addresses not only the cyst itself but also the environmental and emotional factors that may contribute to its development, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence and promoting overall well-being.
Root Causes of Cysts in TCM
Cysts, in the eyes of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), are not just isolated symptoms but signals of deeper imbalances, particularly involving what TCM practitioners identify as the Toxic-Heat pattern. This concept reflects a state where excessive heat and toxins accumulate in the body, leading to inflammation, blockages, and ultimately the formation of cysts.
Such conditions manifest when the body's natural detoxification processes are overwhelmed, causing disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, and resulting in the growth of fluid-filled sacs or cysts.
Explore below more details about what might cause Cysts according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Blood Stasis
- Dampness
- Uterus
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 Cysts
Common Symptoms: Amenorrhea Infertility Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Late Menstruation Scanty Menstruation Lower Abdominal Pain Abdominal Heaviness Stifling Sensation In The Chest
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus | Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan |
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 Cysts
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus | Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan |
Dampness
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Cysts
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Uterus
In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more
Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Cysts
Common Symptoms: Amenorrhea Infertility Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Late Menstruation Scanty Menstruation Lower Abdominal Pain Abdominal Heaviness Stifling Sensation In The Chest
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian cysts, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus | Fibroids and cysts in the lower abdomen, Persistent uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Lower abdominal fibroids and cysts, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Abdominal pain, Prolonged lochia, Infertility, Postpartum hemorrhage, Retained placenta... see more | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Cysts
To counteract the Toxic-Heat pattern that can lead to the development of cysts, TCM turns to its rich pharmacopeia of herbal formulas, each meticulously composed to target specific imbalances within the body. Among these, Shi Wei Bai Du San stands out for its proficiency in clearing heat and purging toxins, courtesy of key ingredients like Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng). Fang Feng, known for its pungent sweetness and warmth, plays a crucial role in dispelling wind and dampness, alleviating inflammation, and enhancing the body's own healing mechanisms.
By addressing the root cause — the toxic heat — this approach not only seeks to resolve the immediate issue of cysts but also to restore long-term harmony and balance to the body's internal landscape, preventing recurrence and promoting overall health and wellness.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address cysts, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Blood Stasis
- Dampness
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
- Formulas that clear wind-Cold
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause cysts, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Cysts Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan | Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause cysts, such as Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn more
Top Formula for Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause cysts, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Cysts Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some cysts-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass 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 cysts
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some cysts-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wei Ling Tang, with water plantain as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some cysts-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wan Dai Tang, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some cysts-causing patterns like Blood Stagnation and Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan, with cinnamon twigs as a key herb.
Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
Cysts can be treated by formulas that clear external abscesses and sores if it is due to localized infections or inflammations on the skin.
One such formula is Shi Wei Bai Du San, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Wind-Cold
Cysts can be treated by these formulas when it stems from external pathogenic influences characterized by cold and wind symptoms.
One such formula is Da Qing Long Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Cysts
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address cysts, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Cysts can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Shi Wei Bai Du San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) | Shi Wei Bai Du San |
| Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie) | Shi Wei Bai Du San |
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Da Qing Long Tang |
| Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi) | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan |
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Cysts can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
| Leeches (Shui Zhi) | Not applicable |
| Flying Squirrel Faeces (Wu Ling Zhi) | Not applicable |
Herbs that drain Dampness
Cysts can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Water Plantain (Ze Xie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Wei Ling Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that drain Dampness" recommended for cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Water Plantain (Ze Xie) | Wei Ling Tang |
| Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Cysts can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Wan Dai Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for cysts
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Wan Dai Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Wan Dai Tang |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Cysts can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Cysts can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Cysts can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Dong Quai (Dang Gui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cysts, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.