Anxiety Neurosisaccording to TCM

What is Anxiety Neurosis?

Anxiety neurosis, also known as neurotic anxiety, is a psychological condition marked by chronic, excessive worry and irrational fears. Unlike generalized anxiety, which may have identifiable triggers, anxiety neurosis often presents without a clear cause, manifesting as an exaggerated response to ordinary situations.

Individuals with this condition may experience symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. The condition is often persistent and can significantly interfere with daily life. In Western medicine, anxiety neurosis is typically seen as a result of both genetic and environmental factors, and treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

How Does TCM View Anxiety Neurosis?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), anxiety neurosis is understood as a manifestation of internal imbalances that disrupt the body’s energy, or Qi. Unlike Western medicine, which may focus on brain chemistry, TCM attributes anxiety neurosis to various patterns of disharmony, such as those affecting the Heart, Liver, or Spleen. Each pattern requires a distinct treatment approach, making the identification of the specific underlying disharmony crucial for effective therapy. This comprehensive view reflects TCM’s emphasis on treating the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Causes of Anxiety Neurosis According to TCM

From a TCM perspective, anxiety neurosis can be caused by several internal imbalances, with two common patterns being Phlegm Misting the Heart and Phlegm-Heat. In Phlegm Misting the Heart, an accumulation of Phlegm obstructs the Heart and sensory orifices, leading to confusion, fear, and emotional instability. Patients may feel mentally clouded, unable to think clearly, and experience frequent mood swings.

Meanwhile, Phlegm-Heat is characterized by the presence of Heat that causes bodily fluids to thicken into Phlegm. This pattern may manifest as restlessness, irritability, and a feeling of heaviness in the chest. While these are just two possible causes, there are other patterns that can also lead to anxiety neurosis, each necessitating a unique therapeutic approach.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Anxiety Neurosis

To address anxiety neurosis, TCM practitioners may use formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm, such as Gun Tan Wan. This formula, featuring Chlorite Schist (Meng Shi) as a key herb, helps to dissolve Phlegm, calm the mind, and restore clarity. Chlorite Schist is known for its salty and sweet properties, which aid in clearing Heat and softening hardened masses. The choice of formula or herb depends on the specific pattern of disharmony in each patient, reflecting TCM's personalized and holistic approach to treatment.

See more details below about Gun Tan Wan, a herbal formula used to address anxiety neurosis.

TCM Herbs for Anxiety Neurosis

See more details below about Chlorite Schist (Meng Shi), a herb used to address anxiety neurosis.