Hiccupsaccording to TCM

*redirected from Hiccuping

What is Hiccups?

Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm followed by the sudden closure of the vocal cords, which produces the characteristic "hic" sound. This common reflex can occur sporadically and resolve on its own or become persistent, affecting the individual's quality of life.

While often benign, persistent or severe hiccups can signal underlying health issues. Understanding hiccups in their various forms, including neurological and recalcitrant types, is essential for effective management and treatment.

How does TCM view Hiccups?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets hiccups as a disruption in the body's natural flow of Qi, specifically an upward disturbance of Stomach Qi, or a manifestation of disharmony between the organs.

According to TCM, the body is a system of balanced energies, and hiccups are a sign that this balance is disturbed. Identifying the precise pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM, as it guides the treatment strategy to not only alleviate the symptoms but also to address the root cause of the hiccups.

Root Causes of Hiccups in TCM

In TCM, hiccups are primarily attributed to factors that disrupt the smooth flow of Qi across the body. Two common patterns include Rebellious Qi, where Qi flows in the opposite direction than intended, causing symptoms like hiccups, nausea, and upper abdominal discomfort, and Qi Stagnation, which involves a blockage that prevents Qi from moving freely, leading to tension, discomfort, and hiccups.

These patterns are often linked to emotional stress or dietary indiscretions and require a nuanced approach to treatment that restores harmony and Qi flow.

Explore below more details about what might cause Hiccups according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Qi Rebellion
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Qi Deficiency
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Rebellion

Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more

Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Hiccups

Common Symptoms: Belching Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Sighing Nausea Or Vomiting Irritability Headaches Nausea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi Hiccuping, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Headaches, Dizziness... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Hiccuping, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Rebellious Qi Hiccuping, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Rebellious Stomach Qi Hiccuping, Nausea, Dysphagia, Belching, Vomit, Hiccups Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Hiccups

To address the underlying causes of hiccups, TCM practitioners may recommend specific formulas and herbs. For instance, Chai Hu Shu Gan San is utilized to soothe Rebellious Liver Qi, alleviating the tension and pressure that can lead to hiccups.

Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang is another formula prescribed for hiccups arising from Rebellious Qi invading the Stomach, combining herbs that redirect Qi downward and alleviate discomfort. These formulas exemplify TCM's holistic approach, targeting the imbalances that lead to symptoms while promoting overall well-being.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Qi Rebellion
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Qi Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Hiccups Caused by Qi Rebellion

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi
Si Ni San Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Qi
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach, Rebellious Stomach Qi
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang Rebellious Qi
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San Rebellious Stomach Qi

Acupoints for Hiccups

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as a treatment for hiccups, targeting specific acupoints to regulate Qi flow and relieve symptoms. Liangqiu ST-34, for example, is activated to subdue Rebellious Stomach Qi and address obstructions in the Stomach channel that might be causing hiccups.

Neiguan P-6 is another crucial point for its ability to calm the Mind, invigorate Qi and Blood in the chest, and harmonize stomach activities. These acupoints, among others, are carefully selected based on the individual's specific TCM diagnosis to effectively treat hiccups and restore balance.

Explore below some acupoints used to address hiccups, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Kidney Channel
Qishe ST-11

Qishe ST-11

On the upper border of the clavicle, between the tendons of the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Qihu ST-13

Qihu ST-13

About 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, below the midpoint of the clavicle.

Liangqiu ST-34

Liangqiu ST-34

2 cun above the upper-lateral border of the patella, on a line between the upper lateral patellar border and the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS).

Zusanli ST-36

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.

Added to Cart