Neurogenic Vomitingaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Nausea and Vomiting
Parent symptom: Vomit
What is Neurogenic Vomiting?
Neurogenic vomiting, a condition that sees the body’s vomiting reflex triggered by nerve issues rather than gastrointestinal problems, presents a complex challenge in the medical world. This form of vomiting arises not from the digestive tract but from the nervous system's signals, indicating a multifaceted approach towards diagnosis and treatment. As its name suggests, neurogenic vomiting is closely tied to neurological conditions, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding beyond conventional triggers of nausea and vomiting.
How does TCM view Neurogenic Vomiting
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), neurogenic vomiting is approached through a lens that evaluates the body's energy flow, or Qi, and its harmony between the physical and emotional spheres. TCM posits that such symptoms arise when there's a disruption in the flow of Qi, specifically within the organs like the Stomach, Heart, and Pericardium.
This perspective offers a unique vantage point, emphasizing the interconnection between the body's physiological processes and its energetic balance, showcasing the importance of identifying the underlying patterns of disharmony for effective treatment.
Causes of Neurogenic Vomiting according to TCM
TCM attributes neurogenic vomiting to a couple of pivotal causes, rooted in the Stagnation of Qi and the invasion of external pathogenic factors. One primary cause is Stomach Qi Stagnation, where the Qi of the Stomach is obstructed, leading to the upward rebellion of Stomach Qi, manifesting as vomiting.
Another key cause is the invasion of external pathogens that disrupt the body's harmonious Qi flow, leading to a disturbance in the Stomach and Spleen system. These causes highlight the complex interplay between the body’s internal Qi dynamics and its interaction with external factors, underlying the TCM approach to diagnosing and treating neurogenic vomiting.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Neurogenic Vomiting
Addressing neurogenic vomiting in TCM involves restoring the smooth flow of Qi and harmonizing the body’s internal systems. Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang stands out as a quintessential formula designed to unblock Qi Stagnation in the stomach, heart, and pericardium, thereby alleviating vomiting.
Comprising Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), this formula is tailored to promote Qi movement, harmonize the middle jiao, and direct Rebellious Qi downwards. This treatment strategy underscores TCM’s holistic approach, targeting the root causes of symptoms through the careful modulation of the body’s energetic and functional equilibrium.
See more details below about Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang, a herbal formula used to address neurogenic vomiting.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that promote qi movement
Formulas that promote Qi movement
Neurogenic vomiting can be treated by these formulas if it stems from stagnation or imbalance in the flow of Qi, the vital life energy, within the body.
One such formula is Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Neurogenic Vomiting
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address neurogenic vomiting, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Neurogenic vomiting can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neurogenic vomiting, like Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Neurogenic vomiting 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 Houpu Magnolia Bark (Hou Pu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neurogenic vomiting, like Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang.