Severe Constipationaccording to TCM

What is Severe Constipation?

Severe constipation is a condition characterized by extreme difficulty in passing stools, often resulting in infrequent bowel movements that are hard, dry, and painful to pass. This level of constipation can significantly impact quality of life, leading to discomfort, bloating, and sometimes severe health complications.

Unlike ordinary constipation, which might be transient or mild, severe constipation is persistent and may not respond well to standard treatments, indicating a stubborn difficulty with bowel movements and requiring more targeted interventions.

How does TCM view Severe Constipation?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches severe constipation not just as a simple digestive system malfunction but as a symptom of deeper imbalances within the body’s energy system. TCM theory suggests that constipation, especially when severe, is often the result of disrupted Qi (energy) flow, imbalances in the body’s Yin and Yang, and disharmony among the organs, particularly the Spleen, Stomach, and Intestines.

The practice emphasizes the importance of identifying the underlying patterns of disharmony leading to constipation to effectively restore balance and relieve symptoms.

Root Causes of Severe Constipation in TCM

In TCM, severe constipation is commonly attributed to a couple of key patterns of imbalance: Heat in Yang brightness Organs and Qi Stagnation. Heat in Yang brightness Organs manifests as severe constipation accompanied by symptoms like focal distention, abdominal pain that worsens with pressure, and possibly signs of pancreatitis, appendicitis, or cholecystitis. This condition is thought to arise from an excess of heat accumulating in the organs, leading to a drying effect on the intestines and stool.

Qi stagnation, on the other hand, involves the impaired movement of Qi throughout the body, which can result in the intestines failing to move waste effectively, leading to severe constipation. Both patterns underscore the TCM perspective that constipation is not merely a physical ailment but a sign of deeper systemic imbalance.

Explore below more details about what might cause Severe constipation 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 Severe Constipation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat in Yang brightness Organs	Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Focal distention, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis, Cholecystitis, Bacillary dysentery, Icteric hepatitis... see more	Da Cheng Qi Tang

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Severe Constipation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat in Yang brightness Organs	Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Focal distention, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis, Cholecystitis, Bacillary dysentery, Icteric hepatitis... see more	Da Cheng Qi Tang

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 Severe Constipation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat in Yang brightness Organs	Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Focal distention, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis, Cholecystitis, Bacillary dysentery, Icteric hepatitis... see more	Da Cheng Qi Tang

Small Intestine

In TCM the Small Intestine plays a critical role in receiving partially digested food from the Stomach and further separating the clear from the turbid, essentially distinguishing nutrients from waste. This process is vital for proper absorption and assimilation of food. The Small Intestine is also associated with clarity of judgment and decision-making. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, poor appetite, or irregular bowel movements. Additionally, a malfunctioning Small Intestine may manifest as mental confusion or difficulty in making decisions, reflecting its role in discernment and clarity in both physical and mental realms. ... see more

Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Severe Constipation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat in Yang brightness Organs	Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Focal distention, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis, Cholecystitis, Bacillary dysentery, Icteric hepatitis... see more	Da Cheng Qi Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Severe Constipation

For treating severe constipation, TCM practitioners often turn to formulas designed to address the specific underlying causes. In the case of Heat in Yang brightness Organs, a commonly recommended formula is Da Cheng Qi Tang. This potent mixture includes key ingredients like Rhubarb (Da Huang), known for its purgative properties that help to clear heat accumulation and promote bowel movements.

The choice of formula and herbs is tailored to the patient’s specific pattern of disharmony, with the goal of not only alleviating the immediate symptoms of constipation but also restoring the body’s natural balance and function. This holistic approach underscores TCM’s commitment to treating the individual as a whole, offering a nuanced alternative to conventional treatments for severe constipation.

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

Top Formula for Heat:
Da Cheng Qi Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause severe constipation, such as Heat in Yang brightness Organs

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TCM Herbs for Severe Constipation

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