Slight Abdominal Distension After Eatingaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Abdominal Distension and Fullness
What is Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating?
Slight abdominal distension after eating is a common digestive symptom characterized by a mild increase in the size of the abdomen following meals, often accompanied by a sensation of fullness or bloating. This condition can affect individuals of all ages and may vary in severity from person to person.
While not typically indicative of a serious health issue, it can be uncomfortable and may interfere with daily activities. Understanding the causes and finding ways to manage or alleviate this symptom can significantly improve one's quality of life.
How does TCM view Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches slight abdominal distension after eating as an imbalance within the body's energy system, particularly relating to the Spleen and Stomach, the primary organs involved in digestion and the transformation of food into Qi (vital energy).
TCM theory suggests that this symptom arises when there is a disruption in the movement of Qi, a Deficiency in the body's vital substances, or an accumulation of dampness. Recognizing the underlying pattern of disharmony is crucial for effective treatment in TCM, as it guides the therapeutic strategy.
Root Causes of Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating in TCM
In TCM, several patterns can lead to slight abdominal distension after eating. Qi Deficiency, especially within the Spleen, is a common cause, manifesting as an inability to transport and transform food efficiently. This can result in symptoms like general weakness, bloating, and a desire to lie down after eating.
Another pattern involves Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, where, in addition to distension, individuals may experience a lack of appetite, fatigue, and a pale complexion. Recognizing these patterns is essential for tailoring treatment to the individual's specific needs.
Explore below more details about what might cause Slight abdominal distension after eating according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
- Qi Sinking
- View More Causes
Qi Deficiency
Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more
Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
Common Symptoms: General Weakness Lack Of Appetite Generalized Fatigue Diarrhea Pale Face Weak Limbs Obesity Weak Voice
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
| Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan |
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
Yin Deficiency
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
Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach Yin Deficiency | Slight feeling of fullness after eating, Lack of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Mai Men Dong Tang | Yi Wei Tang | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
Qi Sinking
Qi Sinking is a pattern of disharmony in TCM where the body's energy, or Qi, is thought to "sink" or drop down. Imagine a balloon slowly deflating and falling; that's similar to what happens with Qi Sinking. This can lead to feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and even physical symptoms like prolapse of organs or frequent urination. It's as if the body's energy, which usually supports and holds things in place, isn't able to do its job properly. TCM views this as an imbalance where the uplifting and supporting qualities of Qi are weakened.... see more
Qi Sinking Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Sinking | Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lack of appetite | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
Yang Deficiency
Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more
Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Yang Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face... see more | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Zhen Wu Tang | Yi Huang Tang | Huang Tu Tang | Wen Pi Tang |
Blood Stasis
Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more
Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more | Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang |
Blood Deficiency
Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more
Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Blood Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Gui Pi Tang |
Spleen
In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more
Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
Common Symptoms: General Weakness Lack Of Appetite Generalized Fatigue Diarrhea Weak Limbs Pale Face Obesity Depression
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down, Slight abdominal pain, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Dyspepsia, Swollen complexion, Obesity... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Fei Er Wan |
| Spleen Qi Sinking | Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lack of appetite | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Spleen Yang Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, General weakness, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale face, Cold extremities, Chills, Undigested food in stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Bloated abdomen, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Dull shallow face... see more | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Zhen Wu Tang | Yi Huang Tang | Huang Tu Tang | Wen Pi Tang |
| Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan |
| Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more | Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang |
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
| Spleen Blood Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Depression, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Gui Pi 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 Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Preference For Sipping Upper Abdominal Pain Dry Mouth Afternoon Heat Sensation Dry Throat Thirst General Fullness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach Yin Deficiency | Slight feeling of fullness after eating, Lack of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Mai Men Dong Tang | Yi Wei Tang | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
| Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan |
Liver
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
Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more | Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang |
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 Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency | Slight abdominal distention after eating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
To address slight abdominal distension after eating, TCM utilizes a variety of herbal formulas designed to strengthen the Spleen, augment Qi, and facilitate the proper movement of Qi and fluids. Formulas like Si Jun Zi Tang and Liu Jun Zi Tang are often prescribed for their Qi-tonifying properties, helping to alleviate bloating and improve digestive function.
In cases of Yin Deficiency, Mai Men Dong Tang can be used to nourish the Stomach Yin, reducing the sensation of fullness after meals. Each formula is selected based on the individual's unique pattern of imbalance, demonstrating TCM's personalized approach to health and healing.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address slight abdominal distension after eating, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency
- Qi Sinking
- View More Causes
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Si Jun Zi Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Spleen Qi Deficiency or Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency, Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency... see more |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency |
| Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Spleen Qi Deficiency, Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency |
| Fei Er Wan | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Stomach Yin Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
| Mai Men Dong Tang | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Wei Tang | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
Top Formula for Qi Sinking:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Suitable for Qi Sinking patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Spleen Qi Sinking
Learn more
Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Spleen Yang Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Caused by Yang Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Zhen Wu Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Yi Huang Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Huang Tu Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Wen Pi Tang | Spleen Yang Deficiency |
Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Gui Pi Tang
Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating Caused by Blood Stasis
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Gui Pi Tang | Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency |
| Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang | Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Gui Pi Tang
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause slight abdominal distension after eating, such as Spleen Blood Deficiency
Learn moreFormulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Qi Sinking or Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen Qi Sinking, Spleen Yang Deficiency, Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency... see more |
| Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Stomach Yin Deficiency, Spleen Qi Deficiency, Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Si Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency, Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency... see more |
| Liu Jun Zi Tang | Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency |
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan | Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency |
Formulas that tonify Qi and Blood
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency or Spleen Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Gui Pi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that enrich Yin and moisten Dryness
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Stomach Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Mai Men Dong Tang, with dwarf lilyturf root as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Stomach Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Yi Wei Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Qi Deficiency.
One such formula is Fei Er Wan, with quisqualis fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Zhen Wu Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Yi Huang Tang, with yam as a key herb.
Formulas that stop bleeding
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Huang Tu Tang, with stove earth as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and purge
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Wen Pi Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Dang Gui Shao Yao San, with white peony root as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some slight abdominal distension after eating-causing patterns like Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang, with white peony root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Slight Abdominal Distension After Eating
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address slight abdominal distension after eating, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that expel parasites
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Slight abdominal distension after eating 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 Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Shen Ling Bai Zhu San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Gui Pi Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Gui Pi Tang |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Gui Pi Tang |
| Liquorice (Gan Cao) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Gui Pi Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Yi Huang Tang |
Herbs that expel parasites
Slight abdominal distension after eating can be treated by these herbs if it arises from parasitic infections, utilizing their properties to eliminate parasites from the body.
One such herb is Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Fei Er Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi) | Fei Er Wan |
| Areca Nuts (Bing Lang) | Fei Er Wan |
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Slight abdominal distension after eating 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 Dwarf Lilyturf Roots (Mai Dong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Mai Men Dong Tang.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Slight abdominal distension after eating 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 Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Yi Wei Tang.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Slight abdominal distension after eating 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 Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Shen Ling Bai Zhu San.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Slight abdominal distension after eating can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Zhen Wu Tang.
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Slight abdominal distension after eating can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Foxnut Seeds (Qian Shi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Yi Huang Tang.
Herbs that stop bleeding
Slight abdominal distension after eating can be treated by these herbs in cases where it is due to internal or external bleeding, working to stabilize and constrict blood flow.
One such herb is Stove Earth (Zao Xin Tu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Huang Tu Tang.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Slight abdominal distension after eating can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Wen Pi Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Slight abdominal distension after eating 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 White Peony Roots (Bai Shao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for slight abdominal distension after eating, like Dang Gui Shao Yao San.