Night Blindnessaccording to TCM

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What is Night Blindness?

Night blindness, or nyctalopia, refers to difficulty in seeing in low-light conditions. It is not a disease but rather a symptom of an underlying condition affecting the retina, where rod cells that assist in low-light vision are compromised. This visual impairment can lead to challenges in navigating or driving at dusk or dawn and can significantly affect the quality of life.

How does TCM view Night Blindness?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a 'pattern' is a comprehensive analysis of a person's health issues, encompassing not just the symptoms but also the underlying disharmony causing them. Recognizing a pattern is crucial because it guides the practitioner to a tailored treatment strategy.

For night blindness, identifying whether the pattern stems from a Blood Deficiency or a Yin Deficiency, for instance, is vital. This diagnosis informs the choice of acupuncture points, herbal formulas, and lifestyle adjustments. It's this nuanced approach that allows TCM to address not just the symptom of night blindness, but to nurture the body's overall well-being, aiming for long-term improvement and prevention.

Root Causes of Night Blindness in TCM

TCM discerns several patterns that might lead to night blindness. A prevalent cause is Blood Deficiency, particularly of the Liver and Heart, which can manifest symptoms such as pale complexion and dizziness, alongside vision issues.

Another common pattern is Liver Yin Deficiency, where a lack of vital Body Fluids affects the eyes, causing symptoms like dry eyes and poor night vision. These patterns reflect a deeper disharmony within the body that TCM seeks to address through a holistic approach to restore equilibrium.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Liver
  • Heart
  • Spleen
Detailed description of the cause

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 Night Blindness

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Vivid Dreaming Dull Pale Complexion Pale Lips Blurry Vision Eye Floaters Tingling Of Limbs

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Si Wu Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Night Blindness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency Diminished night vision, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

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 Night Blindness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Night Blindness

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Dull Pale Complexion Blurry Vision Eye Floaters Limb Numbness Scanty Menstruation Amenorrhea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Si Wu Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Liver Yin Deficiency Diminished night vision, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Night Blindness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Night Blindness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Diminished night vision, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Night Blindness

TCM recommends a variety of formulas and herbs tailored to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony. For Blood Deficiency, formulas like Gui Pi Tang, rich in Qi-tonifying herbs like Ginseng, can be beneficial.

For Yin Deficiency patterns, particularly in the Liver, a formula such as Suan Zao Ren Tang, which contains Jujube seeds to nourish the Heart and calm the Mind, may be prescribed. These formulas are part of a broader strategy to nourish and fortify the body's vital substances.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that sedate and calm the mind
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Night Blindness Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Liver Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Night Blindness Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Night Blindness Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for night blindness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for night blindness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Liver Yin Deficiency

Acupoints for Night Blindness

TCM also employs acupoint therapy to address night blindness. Points along the Gall Bladder Channel like Fengchi GB-20, Guangming GB-37, and Tongziliao GB-1 are chosen for their proximity to the sensory orifices and their reputed ability to benefit the eyes by subduing Liver Yang and clearing Wind.

Additionally, Bladder Channel points such as Jingming BL-1 and Shenshu BL-23 may be utilized to nourish and strengthen the Kidneys, which in TCM are believed to provide essential support to the eyes. Acupoint therapy is used to complement herbal treatments, aiming to enhance visual function and address the root of the disharmony.

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

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Stomach Channel
Tongziliao GB-1

Tongziliao GB-1

Lateral to the outer canthus, in the depression on the lateral side of the orbit.

Yangbai GB-14

Yangbai GB-14

On the forehead, 1 cun above the midpoint of the eyebrow, approximately at the junction of the upper two-thirds and lower third of the vertical line draw from the anterior hairline to the eyebrow.

Fengchi GB-20

Fengchi GB-20

In the posterior aspect of the neck, below the occipital bone, in the depression between the upper portion of sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle.

Guangming GB-37

Guangming GB-37

5 cun directly above the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.

Jingming BL-1

Jingming BL-1

0.1 cun superior and medial to the inner canthus.

Zanzhu BL-2

Zanzhu BL-2

On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.

Ganshu BL-18

Ganshu BL-18

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Shenshu BL-23

Shenshu BL-23

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).

Chengqi ST-1

Chengqi ST-1

Between the eyeball and the midpoint of the infraorbital ridge.

Sibai ST-2

Sibai ST-2

Below Chengqi ST-1, in the depression at the infraorbital foramen.