Mucous In Fecesaccording to TCM

What is Mucous in Feces?

Mucous in feces, a condition where stools contain a noticeable amount of mucus or pus, often points to inflammation or irritation within the intestines. This symptom can manifest alongside a variety of digestive issues, ranging from benign to more serious gastrointestinal disorders. In some cases, the presence of mucous is a normal part of the body's process to lubricate and protect the intestinal lining, but an excess can indicate underlying health concerns.

How does TCM view Mucous in Feces?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets mucous in feces as an indicator of disharmony within the body's internal environment, particularly involving the Spleen, Large Intestine, and Kidney systems.

Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on the symptom itself, TCM looks at mucous presence as a sign of deeper imbalances, such as Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine or Yang Deficiency, reflecting an intricate relationship between the body's organs and its Qi, or vital energy.

Root Causes of Mucous In Feces in TCM

In TCM, the appearance of mucous in feces is commonly attributed to patterns of imbalance. Damp-Heat can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and smelly stools, while Yang Deficiency might lead to chronic conditions with symptoms like cold sensations and abdominal pain relieved by warmth.

These patterns highlight the body's inability to transform and transport bodily fluids correctly, resulting in the accumulation of pathological substances like mucous.

Explore below more details about what might cause Mucous in feces according to TCM.

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 Mucous In Feces

Common Symptoms: Abdominal Pain Abdominal Fullness Diarrhea Hematochezia Smelly Stools Anal Burning Scanty And Dark Urine Fever

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine	Mucus in stools, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao Tang
Phlegm-Heat	Mucus in stools, Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression	Wen Dan Tang | Ding Chuan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Gun Tan 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 Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Heat	Mucus in stools, Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression	Wen Dan Tang | Ding Chuan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Gun Tan Wan

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold	Pus in stool, Chronic dysentery, Dark blood in stool, Mucous in feces, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth... see more	Tao Hua Tang | Huan Shao Dan

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 Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine	Mucus in stools, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao Tang

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold	Pus in stool, Chronic dysentery, Dark blood in stool, Mucous in feces, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth... see more	Tao Hua Tang | Huan Shao Dan

Large Intestine

In TCM the Large Intestine is primarily seen as responsible for the absorption of fluids and the excretion of waste. It is closely related to the Lung in terms of energy flow and function, reflecting the interconnectedness of organ systems in TCM. When the Large Intestine malfunctions, it can lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, and an inability to let go of emotional waste, like holding onto grief or stress. This is in line with the TCM view that the physical and emotional aspects of health are deeply connected. An imbalanced Large Intestine can also manifest as skin problems, signifying the organ’s role in eliminating toxins and maintaining balance in the body’s internal environment.... see more

Large Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine	Mucus in stools, Abdominal pain, Abdominal fullness, Diarrhea, Hematochezia, Mucous in feces, Smelly stools, Anal burning, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Feeling of heaviness... see more	Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang | Shao Yao 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 Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold	Pus in stool, Chronic dysentery, Dark blood in stool, Mucous in feces, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth... see more	Tao Hua Tang | Huan Shao Dan

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 Mucous In Feces

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold	Pus in stool, Chronic dysentery, Dark blood in stool, Mucous in feces, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth... see more	Tao Hua Tang | Huan Shao Dan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Mucous In Feces

To address the underlying causes of mucous in feces, TCM utilizes a variety of herbal formulas. For conditions marked by Damp-Heat, Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang, which contains Kudzu Roots among other herbs, is often prescribed to clear Heat and resolve Dampness, restoring the balance within the Large Intestine.

In cases of Yang Deficiency, Tao Hua Tang, featuring Red Halloysite, is recommended to bind the intestines and secure what is known as 'abandoned conditions,' effectively reducing the presence of mucous and pus in the stool.

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

Top Formula for Heat:
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause mucous in feces, such as Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Mucous In Feces Caused by Heat

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang	Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Shao Yao Tang	Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm-Heat
Ding Chuan Tang	Phlegm-Heat
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat
Gun Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wen Dan Tang

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause mucous in feces, such as Phlegm-Heat

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Mucous In Feces Caused by Phlegm

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm-Heat
Ding Chuan Tang	Phlegm-Heat
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat
Gun Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat

Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Tao Hua Tang

Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause mucous in feces, such as Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Mucous In Feces Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Tao Hua Tang	Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold
Huan Shao Dan	Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold

Top Formula for Dampness:
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause mucous in feces, such as Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Mucous In Feces Caused by Dampness

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang	Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine
Shao Yao Tang	Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine

Top Formula for Cold:
Tao Hua Tang

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause mucous in feces, such as Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Mucous In Feces Caused by Cold

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Tao Hua Tang	Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold
Huan Shao Dan	Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold

Acupoints for Mucous In Feces

TCM also suggests acupuncture as a therapeutic approach to treating mucous in feces. Points like Daheng SP-15 and Fuai SP-16 on the Spleen meridian are targeted to strengthen the Spleen's function, regulate the intestines, and resolve dampness.

Additional points such as Sanyinjiao SP-6 and Yinlingquan SP-9 further support the Spleen and Stomach, remove Liver Qi stagnation, and nourish Kidney Qi. These acupoints, when stimulated, can help harmonize the body's internal systems, reduce inflammation, and eliminate excess mucous from the feces.

Explore below some acupoints used to address mucous in feces, organized by meridian.

Sanyinjiao SP-6

3 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the tibia, on the line drawn from the medial malleolus to Yinlingquan SP-9.

Yinlingquan SP-9

On the lower border of the medial condyle of the tibia, in the depression between the posterior border of the tibia and gastrocnemius muscle.

Daheng SP-15

On the mammillary line 4 cun lateral to the umbilicus center.

Fuai SP-16

3 cun above the umbilicus center and 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the mamillary line.

Shangjuxu ST-37

6 cun below Dubi ST-35, on finger-breadth from the anterior crest of the tibia.

Xiajuxu ST-39

9 cun below Dubi ST-35, about one middle finger-width lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.

Fuliu KID-7

2 cun directly above Taixi KID-3, on the anterior border of Achilles tendon.

Xiaochangshu BL-27

At the level of the 1st posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline.