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Symptom family: Urine Volume & Frequency Abnormalities
Oliguria refers to a significant decrease in urine output. This condition is characterized by urinating less than normal, which could be a warning sign of fluid balance issues or kidney dysfunction. It's important to understand that oliguria is not a disease on its own but a clinical symptom that requires attention to underlying causes.
Traditional Chinese Medicine interprets oliguria as a signal of internal imbalance, often related to the Kidney organ system. TCM doesn't just aim to increase urine output but seeks to restore harmony within the body's systems. Recognizing the specific pattern causing oliguria, whether it be due to a deficiency or an excess, is pivotal for successful treatment in TCM.
In TCM, oliguria is typically seen as a symptom of deeper imbalances. For instance, Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency may manifest as scanty urination accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and a dry throat.
On the other hand, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising can also present with oliguria, along with tremors and hypertension. These patterns are critical in TCM, as they guide practitioners to the most appropriate and individualized treatments.
Explore below more details about what might cause Oliguria according to TCM.
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency | Scanty urination, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more | Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan |
Yang Excess in TCM refers to a state where there is an overabundance of Yang energy, leading to symptoms of heat and hyperactivity in the body. This pattern of disharmony often arises from factors like stress, excessive physical activity, overconsumption of spicy or heating foods, or an internal imbalance that causes Yang to flare up. Symptoms of Yang Excess include a feeling of heat, red face, irritability, restlessness, thirst, constipation, and a rapid, forceful pulse. Treatment in TCM for Yang Excess aims to cool down and subdue the excessive Yang while nurturing Yin energy to restore balance.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Scanty urination, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Scanty urination, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
"Summer-Heat" in TCM is a unique concept that refers to a pattern of disharmony often associated with the hot summer months. Imagine the intense heat of summer stressing your body, like being in a sweltering, humid environment for too long. This can lead to symptoms like feeling overheated, excessive sweating, a feeling of irritation, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. In TCM, this condition is thought to arise from the external environment's heat affecting the body's internal balance. It's similar to how we might feel uncomfortable and out of sorts on a very hot day. ... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Summer Heat with Dampness | Scanty urination, Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Xiang Ru San | Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin |
"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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Summer Heat with Dampness | Scanty urination, Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Xiang Ru San | Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin |
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency | Scanty urination, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more | Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency | Scanty urination, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night dry coughing, Dry throat, Dry mouth, Emaciation, Exertional dyspnea, Lower back pain, Night sweats, Hearing loss, Oliguria... see more | Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan |
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Scanty urination, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
To address oliguria from a TCM perspective, formulas like Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan are used to nourish Yin and tonify, particularly when symptoms suggest a Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency.
In the case of Yang Excess or Wind patterns, practitioners may turn to Liu Wei Di Huang Wan or Qi Ju Di Huang Wan, both of which nourish Yin but also aim to subdue the excess Yang or Wind, respectively. These formulas are selected based on a patient's unique presentation and are part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address oliguria, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause oliguria, such as Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency
Learn moreSuitable for Yang Excess patterns that may cause oliguria, such as Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause oliguria, such as Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Suitable for Summer Heat patterns that may cause oliguria, such as Summer Heat with Dampness
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Xiang Ru San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause oliguria, such as Summer Heat with Dampness
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Xiang Ru San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin | Summer Heat with Dampness |
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan | Kidney and Lung Yin Deficiency |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang, with donkey-hide gelatin as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Feng Yin Tang, with dragon bones as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San, with korean mint as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Xiang Ru San, with vietnamese balm as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some oliguria-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin, with talc as a key herb.
Oliguria can be treated by these formulas in cases where dampness obstructs the body's normal functions, necessitating herbs that specifically target and expel dampness.
One such formula is Wei Ling Tang, with water plantain as a key herb.
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address oliguria, organized by herb category.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Talc (Hua Shi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Talc (Hua Shi) | Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin |
Water Plantain (Ze Xie) | Wei Ling Tang |
Wax Gourd Peels (Dong Gua Pi) | Not applicable |
Common Rush (Deng Xin Cao) | Not applicable |
Corn Silk (Yu Mi Xu) | Not applicable |
Job's Tears (Yi Yi Ren) | Not applicable |
Polyporus (Zhu Ling) | Not applicable |
Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) | Not applicable |
Red Poria (Chi Fu Ling) | Not applicable |
Stachyurus Stem Piths (Xiao Tong Cao) | Not applicable |
Tetrapanax Piths (Tong Cao) | Not applicable |
Akebia Stems (Mu Tong) | Not applicable |
Chinese Pink Herbs (Qu Mai) | Not applicable |
Kochia Fruits (Di Fu Zi) | Not applicable |
Plantain Grass (Che Qian Cao) | Not applicable |
Oliguria 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 Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao) | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang |
Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi) | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
Motherwort Herbs (Yi Mu Cao) | Not applicable |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs if it arises from internal heat and toxic accumulations, aiding in detoxification and cooling the body.
One such herb is Castor Beans (Bi Ma Zi), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Castor Beans (Bi Ma Zi) | Not applicable |
Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao) | Not applicable |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when caused by internal wind from Liver disharmony, often manifesting in symptoms like spasms or tremors.
One such herb is Earthworms (Di Long), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Earthworms (Di Long) | Not applicable |
Dogbane Leaves (Luo Bu Ma) | Not applicable |
Oliguria 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 Genkwa Flowers (Yuan Hua), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Genkwa Flowers (Yuan Hua) | Not applicable |
Poke Roots (Shang Lu) | Not applicable |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Sophora Roots (Ku Shen), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Sophora Roots (Ku Shen) | Not applicable |
Stephania Roots (Fang Ji) | Not applicable |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Vietnamese Balm (Xiang Ru), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Xiang Ru San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Vietnamese Balm (Xiang Ru) | Xiang Ru San |
Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi) | Feng Yin Tang |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Wei Ling Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu) | Wei Ling Tang |
Korean Mint (Huo Xiang) | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs if it stems from disturbances in the Shen (spirit), often due to instability in the heart and kidney energies.
One such herb is Dragon Bones (Long Gu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Feng Yin Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
---|---|
Dragon Bones (Long Gu) | Feng Yin Tang |
Oyster Shells (Mu Li ke) | Feng Yin Tang |
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Areca Peel (Da Fu Pi), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Oliguria 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 Bush Cherry Pits (Yu Li Ren), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs in cases of digestive disturbances due to overeating or consuming hard-to-digest foods, assisting in breaking down and moving food through the digestive system.
One such herb is Chicory (Ju Ju), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Mulberry Bark (Sang Bai Pi), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Watermelons (Xi Gua), which is directly recommended for oliguria.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Ba Xian Chang Shou Wan.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.
One such herb is Chicken Egg Yolks (Ji Zi Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang.
Oliguria can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Liquorice (Gan Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for oliguria, like Feng Yin Tang.