Symptom family: Body Weight Issues

Sub-symptom(s): Abdominal Fat

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat to the extent that it may have a negative impact on health. It is typically defined using the body mass index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or above is classified as obese.

Obesity is more than just an issue of physical appearance; it is associated with various health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It encompasses various forms of weight gain, including abdominal fat, and is a growing health concern worldwide.

How does TCM view Obesity?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches obesity as a complex condition resulting from imbalances within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on calorie intake and physical activity, TCM considers obesity a manifestation of disharmony in the body's natural energy flow or Qi.

TCM identifies different patterns of disharmony causing obesity and emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment to restore balance. This holistic approach encompasses diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and acupuncture.

Root Causes of Obesity in TCM

In TCM, obesity is commonly associated with the accumulation of Damp-Phlegm and Qi Deficiency. The Damp-Phlegm pattern, often seen in obesity, is characterized by symptoms like profuse white sputum, feeling of chest oppression, nausea, and swollen limbs. This pattern indicates an imbalance where the body improperly metabolizes fluids and fats.

Another significant pattern is Spleen Qi Deficiency, manifesting as poor appetite control, abdominal distension, fatigue, and weakness. Addressing these underlying imbalances is key to TCM treatment, as it goes beyond mere weight loss to improving overall health and vitality.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

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 Obesity

Common Symptoms: Nausea Generalized Fatigue Stifling Sensation In The Chest Feeling Of Heaviness Vertigo Chest Distension Edema Dizziness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm Obesity, Overweight, Fat belly, Profuse white sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Upper abdominal focal distention, Nausea, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Swollen limbs, Abdominal fat... see more Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Overweight, Obesity, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Phlegm Obesity, Overweight, Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Er Chen Tang | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Yue Ju Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang | Xing Su San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Obesity

To treat obesity, TCM prescribes specific formulas and herbs targeting the root causes. For the Damp-Phlegm pattern, formulas like Er Chen Tang and Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang are used. These contain ingredients like Crow-Dipper Rhizomes, which help transform Phlegm and dry Dampness, and Ginseng, which boosts Qi.

For Spleen Qi Deficiency, Liu Jun Zi Tang and Si Jun Zi Tang are recommended to strengthen the spleen and enhance digestive efficiency. These formulas not only aim at reducing weight but also at restoring the body's natural balance and function.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type

All Formulas Recommended for Obesity Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm, Phlegm
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang Damp-Phlegm, Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, Phlegm
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Liu Jun Zi Tang Phlegm
Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan Damp-Phlegm
Wei Ling Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wan Dai Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Yue Ju Wan Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Phlegm
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Phlegm
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang Phlegm
Xing Su San Phlegm

TCM Herbs for Obesity

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address obesity, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Purgative herbs that drain downward

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