Schistosomiasisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Parasitic Infections
What is Schistosomiasis?
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by blood flukes, a type of flatworm known as Schistosoma. The disease is contracted through contact with freshwater contaminated with the parasites, typically in regions with poor sanitation. The parasites penetrate the skin and travel through the bloodstream, where they mature and reproduce in the blood vessels. Schistosomiasis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the urine or stool. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic health problems, such as liver damage, kidney failure, and bladder cancer.
How Does TCM View Schistosomiasis?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), schistosomiasis is viewed as a result of external pathogenic factors invading the body, disrupting the balance of Qi, Blood, and vital organs. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on the parasitic infection itself, TCM looks at the underlying patterns of disharmony that allow the disease to take hold.
These patterns can vary widely, making it essential to identify the correct pattern before treatment can begin. TCM emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of the imbalance.
Causes of Schistosomiasis According to TCM
In TCM, schistosomiasis is often linked to patterns such as Blood Stagnation and the accumulation of Dampness and Heat in the body. Blood Stagnation occurs when the circulation of Blood is obstructed, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and the formation of masses. This can be a result of the body's response to the invading parasites, as the stagnant Blood becomes a breeding ground for further illness.
Another possible pattern is the accumulation of Damp-Heat, which can manifest as symptoms like abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and jaundice. This pattern reflects the body's struggle to expel the pathogenic influences, leading to the retention of fluids and the development of internal heat.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Schistosomiasis
The treatment of schistosomiasis in TCM depends on the specific pattern identified. For cases involving Blood Stagnation, the formula Di Dang Tang is often recommended. This formula includes herbs like Leeches (Shui Zhi) that are known for their ability to invigorate Blood and dispel stagnation.
For patterns characterized by excess water and Dampness, Zhou Che Wan may be prescribed. This formula contains Kansui Roots (Gan Sui), which are bitter and cold, helping to drive out excess fluids and reduce edema. The selection of the appropriate formula is critical and must be tailored to the individual patient's condition and pattern of disharmony.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address schistosomiasis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that drive out excess water
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Schistosomiasis can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Di Dang Tang, with leech as a key herb.
Formulas that drive out excess water
Schistosomiasis can be treated by these formulas when it is a consequence of accumulated excess water or fluid in the body, demanding diuretic actions to promote its expulsion.
One such formula is Zhou Che Wan, with kansui root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Schistosomiasis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address schistosomiasis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Cathartic herbs that drain downward
- Laxative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Schistosomiasis can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Leeches (Shui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for schistosomiasis, like Di Dang Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for schistosomiasis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Leeches (Shui Zhi) | Di Dang Tang |
| Tabanus Horseflies (Meng Chong) | Di Dang Tang |
Cathartic herbs that drain downward
Schistosomiasis can be treated by these herbs when due to excess accumulation in the intestines and stomach, aiding in eliminating waste and toxins through purgation.
One such herb is Kansui Roots (Gan Sui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for schistosomiasis, like Zhou Che Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Cathartic herbs that drain downward" recommended for schistosomiasis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Kansui Roots (Gan Sui) | Zhou Che Wan |
| Genkwa Flowers (Yuan Hua) | Zhou Che Wan |
Laxative herbs that drain downward
Schistosomiasis can be treated by these herbs when there's a need for a milder form of bowel movement to alleviate constipation and regulate digestion.
One such herb is Peking Spurge Roots (Jing Da Ji), a key herb in some formulas recommended for schistosomiasis, like Zhou Che Wan.