Peptic Ulceraccording to TCM

What is Peptic Ulcer?

A Peptic Ulcer refers to open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The main symptom of Peptic Ulcers is a burning stomach pain, but they may also cause bloating, belching, intolerance to fatty foods, heartburn, and nausea. The main types include Gastric Ulcers, which occur on the stomach lining, and Duodenal Ulcers, found in the upper part of the small intestine. Peptic Ulcer Bleeding signifies a severe complication where an ulcer leads to bleeding, potentially causing serious health issues.

How does TCM view Peptic Ulcer?

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Peptic Ulcers are seen as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's internal systems. TCM identifies various patterns of disharmony leading to ulcers, such as Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis, or the invasion of pathogenic factors like Heat or Cold. This holistic approach emphasizes the need to identify and address the specific underlying pattern of disharmony, moving beyond mere symptom treatment to foster a return to the body's natural state of balance and health.

Causes of Peptic Ulcer according to TCM

TCM attributes the development of Peptic Ulcers to several internal disharmonies, such as: Qi and Blood Stagnation, where the flow of Qi and Blood through the body is impeded, leading to pain and ulcer formation; or Cold invading the Stomach, characterized by a sharp, intense stomach pain that is alleviated by warmth.

These patterns reflect a disruption in the body's natural harmony and energy flow, necessitating treatments that aim to restore balance, promote the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, and dispel Cold.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Peptic Ulcer

In treating Peptic Ulcers, TCM utilizes a variety of formulas and herbs tailored to the individual's pattern of disharmony. For patterns involving Qi And Blood Stagnation, formulas such as Chai Hu Shu Gan San and Jin Ling Zi San are recommended to promote the movement of Qi and alleviate Stagnation.

Liang Fu Wan and Da Jian Zhong Tang are used for Cold patterns, warming the middle and dispelling Cold to relieve pain. These treatments illustrate TCM's comprehensive approach, focusing on rebalancing internal energies and addressing the root causes of Peptic Ulcers.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address peptic ulcer, organized by formula type.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm

TCM Herbs for Peptic Ulcer

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

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
  • Herbs that stop bleeding

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