Nasal Dischargeaccording to TCM

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What is Nasal Discharge?

Nasal discharge, commonly referred to as a runny nose, involves the excessive secretion of fluids by the nasal tissues and blood vessels. This symptom can manifest as a clear, thin fluid or a thick, colored mucus, varying significantly based on the underlying cause. Causes range from infections such as the common cold or flu to allergies and sinusitis. Chronic or recurrent cases can significantly affect quality of life, leading to discomfort and social embarrassment. Understanding the nature and triggers of nasal discharge is essential for effective management and treatment.

How Does TCM View Nasal Discharge?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) sees nasal discharge as a symptom indicating imbalance within the body’s energetic pathways. In TCM, this condition is often associated with the invasion of pathogenic factors such as Wind, Cold, or Heat, disrupting the normal functions of Qi—the vital life force.

The principle is that treatment should not only aim to stop the discharge but also to correct the energetic imbalances causing it. Identifying the specific TCM pattern underlying the symptom is crucial, as it guides the choice of treatment to restore harmony and health.

Root Causes of Nasal Discharge in TCM

TCM categorizes the causes of nasal discharge into several patterns, primarily involving the pathogenic influences of Wind and Cold. One common pattern is Exterior Wind, where symptoms like sneezing, aversion to cold, and clear nasal discharge indicate the body's surface is battling with invading cold. Treatment focuses on expelling the Wind and fortifying the body's defensive energy.

Another pattern involves Damp-Cold, where the discharge is often accompanied by symptoms of bodily heaviness, chills, and digestive upset, reflecting deeper systemic issues that require warming and drying treatments.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
  • Stomach
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Nasal Discharge

Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Headaches Sneezing Itchy Throat Coughing Congested Nose Body Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Exterior Wind Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Headaches, Anemophobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum, Itchy throat, Sneezing, Coughing, Muscle pain, Itchy skin... see more Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San
Wind-Cold Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Wind-Heat Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Nasal Discharge

Common Symptoms: Sneezing White And Watery Sputum Chills Fever Aversion To Cold Lack Of Sweating Occipital Headache Shortness Of Breath

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Cold Runny nose, Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness... see more Wei Ling Tang
Greater Yang Attack of Cold Runny nose, Occipital headache, Aversion to cold, Low grade fever, Lack of sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath... see more Ma Huang Tang
Wind-Cold Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Detailed description of the cause

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 Nasal Discharge

Common Symptoms: Congested Nose Aversion To Cold Fever Sneezing Coughing Sore Throat Headaches Tonsil Swelling

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Heat Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Damp-Heat in the Stomach Thick nasal discharge, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal fullness, Feeling of heaviness, Face pain, Congested nose, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea, Feeling of heat, Dull yellow complexion, Sticky taste in the mouth... see more Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Nasal Discharge

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Mouth Ulcers White And Watery Sputum Sneezing Chills Abdominal Pain Cold Extremities Arthralgia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Cold Runny nose, Mouth ulcers, White and watery sputum, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Chills, Abdominal pain, Cold extremities, Arthralgia, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness... see more Wei Ling Tang
Damp-Heat in the Stomach Thick nasal discharge, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal fullness, Feeling of heaviness, Face pain, Congested nose, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea, Feeling of heat, Dull yellow complexion, Sticky taste in the mouth... see more Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Nasal Discharge

Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Fever Congested Nose Sneezing Headaches Body Pain Itchy Throat Shortness Of Breath

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs Runny nose, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more Yin Qiao San
Detailed description of the cause

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 Nasal Discharge

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Stomach Thick nasal discharge, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal fullness, Feeling of heaviness, Face pain, Congested nose, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea, Feeling of heat, Dull yellow complexion, Sticky taste in the mouth... see more Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Nasal Discharge

To address nasal discharge, TCM uses specific formulas based on the identified pattern. For symptoms arising from Wind-Cold, such as a runny nose accompanied by sneezing and chills, Ma Huang Tang, which includes Ephedra, is commonly prescribed to expel Wind and release the exterior.

In cases where Wind-Heat predominates, presenting with yellow discharge and fever, Yin Qiao San or Cong Chi Tang may be used to clear Heat and expel Wind. These formulas are selected to align with the unique conditions of the patient, ensuring a targeted and effective approach to relieving symptoms.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that clear wind-Heat
  • Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
  • Formulas that expel dampness
  • Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that reduce food stagnation with tonification

All Formulas Recommended for Nasal Discharge Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San Exterior Wind
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Wind-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Nasal Discharge Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold
Wei Ling Tang Damp-Cold
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All Formulas Recommended for Nasal Discharge Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Heat
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Wind-Heat
Lian Po Yin Damp-Heat in the Stomach
Ge Hua Jie Cheng San Damp-Heat in the Stomach

All Formulas Recommended for Nasal Discharge Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wei Ling Tang Damp-Cold
Lian Po Yin Damp-Heat in the Stomach
Ge Hua Jie Cheng San Damp-Heat in the Stomach

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for nasal discharge

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All "formulas that dredge and disperse external wind" recommended for nasal discharge

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San Exterior Wind
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat

All "external formulas for external disorders" recommended for nasal discharge

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for nasal discharge

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear wind-Heat" recommended for nasal discharge

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat

Acupoints for Nasal Discharge

Acupuncture is another pillar of TCM treatment for nasal discharge. Key acupoints include Hegu LI-4 and Yingxiang LI-20, which are known to regulate the flow of Qi and blood, helping to alleviate nasal symptoms. Hegu LI-4, located on the hand, is particularly effective in treating issues related to the head and face, including nasal discharge.

Yingxiang LI-20, situated beside the nostrils, directly opens nasal passages and clears congestion. Stimulating these points can enhance respiratory function, reduce discharge, and improve the overall sense of well-being.

Explore below some acupoints used to address nasal discharge, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Governing Vessel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Large Intestine Channel
  • Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Lung Channel
Baihui DU-20

Baihui DU-20

At the vertex, at the junction of a line connecting the apex of the ears and the midline, in the depression 7 cun above the posterior hairline and 5 cun behind the anterior hairline.

Qianding DU-21

Qianding DU-21

On the midline, 1.5 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20 or 3.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline.

Xinhui DU-22

Xinhui DU-22

On the head midline, 3 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20, 2 cun posterior to the front hairline.

Shangxing DU-23

Shangxing DU-23

On the head midline, 1 cun within anterior to the front hairline, 4 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20.

Shenting DU-24

Shenting DU-24

On the head midline, 0.5 cun above the anterior hairline.

Suliao DU-25

Suliao DU-25

In a depression on the tip of the nose.

Renzhong DU-26

Renzhong DU-26

Below the nose, a little above the midpoint of the philtrum.

Chengguang BL-6

Chengguang BL-6

1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2.5 cun within the anterior hairline. On the other hand, this point is at the medial third and lateral two-thirds of the distance from anterior midline to the line vertically from Touwei ST-8. Chengguang BL-6 is also 1.5 cun posterior to Wuchu BL-5.

Tongtian BL-7

Tongtian BL-7

1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 4 cun within the anterior hairline.

Fengmen BL-12

Fengmen BL-12

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd thoracic vertebra (T2).

Hegu LI-4

Hegu LI-4

Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.

Kouheliao LI-19

Kouheliao LI-19

Directly below the lateral margin of the nostril, level with Renzhong DU-26.

Yingxiang LI-20

Yingxiang LI-20

In the nasolabrial groove, at the level of the midpoint of the lateral border of ala nasi.

Yintang EX-HN-3

Yintang EX-HN-3

Yintang EX-HN-3 is between the eyebrows and on the anterior midline.

Shangyingxiang EX-HN-8

Shangyingxiang EX-HN-8

At the upper end of the nasiolabial groove, at the junction of the maxilla and the nasal cavity.

Erheliao TB-22

Erheliao TB-22

Anterior and superior to Ermen TB-21, level with the root of the auricle, on the posterior border of the hairline of the temple where the superficial temporal artery passes.

Lidui ST-45

Lidui ST-45

On the lateral side of the 2nd toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of nail.

Lieque LU-7

Lieque LU-7

Above the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the wrist crease (wrist joint space) in a V-shaped depression.