Sore Kneesaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Joint Symptoms, Knee Conditions
Did you mean? Knee Pain
What is Sore Knees?
Sore knees are a common complaint among people of all ages, characterized by discomfort or pain in the knee area. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including overuse, injury, or underlying health issues such as arthritis.
Symptoms may include aching, stiffness, and a general sense of weakness in the knees, making it challenging to perform everyday activities. Recognizing and addressing the underlying causes of knee soreness is essential for effective treatment and prevention, ensuring individuals can maintain their mobility and quality of life.
How does TCM view Sore Knees?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets sore knees through a lens vastly different from Western medicine, seeing them as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's energy systems. According to TCM, knee soreness is often a signal of underlying disharmonies, such as Deficiencies in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang, or the presence of pathogenic factors like Dampness or Phlegm.
Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM, as it guides the treatment strategy to not only alleviate the symptoms but also address the root cause of the condition.
Root Causes of Sore Knees in TCM
TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to sore knees, with Yin Deficiency and Qi Deficiency among the common causes. Yin Deficiency, for instance, may manifest as sore knees accompanied by symptoms like dry mouth, night sweats, and back pain, indicating an imbalance where the cooling, nourishing aspects of the body are depleted.
Qi Deficiency, on the other hand, can cause knee soreness alongside generalized fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, reflecting an overall lack of vital energy necessary for maintaining health and preventing injury. These patterns underscore the TCM principle that effective treatment requires a holistic approach, focusing on restoring balance and strengthening the body's natural defenses.
Explore below more details about what might cause Sore knees according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Yin Deficiency
- Qi Deficiency
- Blood Deficiency
- Phlegm
- Yang Excess
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Liver
- Kidney
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 Sore Knees
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Knee Weakness Dry Mouth Dry Tongue Dizziness Blurry Vision Insomnia Nocturnal Emission
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yin Deficiency | Sore knees, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more | Zuo Gui Yin | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
| Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin | Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying, Hair loss... see more | Er Zhi Wan |
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 Sore Knees
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Qi and Blood Deficiency | Sore knees, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more | Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang | Sheng Yu 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 Sore Knees
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Qi and Blood Deficiency | Sore knees, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more | Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang | Sheng Yu Tang |
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Knees
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Oedema | Sore knees, Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention... see more | Wu Ling San | Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Ping Wei San | Wu Pi Yin | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Zhen Wu Tang | Shen Qi Wan | Yu Gong San | Zhou Che Wan |
Yang Excess
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
Yang Excess Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Knees
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Yang Rising | Soreness and weakness of the knees, Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang |
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 Sore Knees
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Oedema | Sore knees, Abdominal edema, Ankle edema, Facial edema, Foot edema, Oedema of hands, Leg edema, Ocular swelling, Abdominal distention... see more | Wu Ling San | Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Ping Wei San | Wu Pi Yin | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Zhen Wu Tang | Shen Qi Wan | Yu Gong San | Zhou Che 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 Sore Knees
Common Symptoms: Dry Mouth Dizziness Blurry Vision Insomnia Lower Back Pain Knee Weakness Dry Tongue Vivid Dreaming
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Yang Rising | Soreness and weakness of the knees, Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang |
| Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin | Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying, Hair loss... see more | Er Zhi Wan |
Kidney
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
Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Sore Knees
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Knee Weakness Dry Mouth Dry Tongue Dizziness Blurry Vision Insomnia Nocturnal Emission
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yin Deficiency | Sore knees, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more | Zuo Gui Yin | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
| Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin | Sore knees, Lower back pain, Knee weakness, Dry mouth, Dry tongue, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Hair graying, Hair loss... see more | Er Zhi Wan |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Sore Knees
To address the diverse causes of sore knees, TCM utilizes a wide range of formulas and herbs tailored to the individual's specific pattern of imbalance. For Yin Deficiency, formulations like Zuo Gui Yin and Qi Ju Di Huang Wan, containing key herbs such as Prepared rehmannia (Shu Di huang), aim to nourish Yin and replenish the body's fluids.
In cases of Qi Deficiency, remedies like Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang and Sheng Yu Tang, featuring herbs like Dong quai (Dang Gui), work to boost Qi and Blood, enhancing vitality and strength. These treatments illustrate the TCM approach of targeting the underlying disharmonies, offering a nuanced pathway to relief and recovery for those suffering from sore knees.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address sore knees, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Yin Deficiency
- Qi Deficiency
- Blood Deficiency
- Phlegm
- Yang Excess
- Dampness
- View More Causes
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness
- Formulas that tonify blood
- Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
- Formulas that drive out excess water
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
- Formulas that clear liver-Heat
- Formulas that tonify
- Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
- Formulas that warm yang and tonify
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
- Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
- Formulas that sedate and calm the mind
- Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Kidney Yin Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Er Zhi Wan | Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin |
| Zuo Gui Yin | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Qi and Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Sheng Yu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Blood Deficiency:
Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Qi and Blood Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Blood Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
| Sheng Yu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wu Ling San
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Oedema
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wu Ling San | Oedema |
| Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Oedema |
| Ping Wei San | Oedema |
| Wu Pi Yin | Oedema |
| Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Oedema |
| Zhen Wu Tang | Oedema |
| Shen Qi Wan | Oedema |
| Yu Gong San | Oedema |
| Zhou Che Wan | Oedema |
Top Formula for Yang Excess:
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
Suitable for Yang Excess patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Liver Yang Rising
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Yang Excess
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Yang Rising |
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Yang Rising |
| Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liver Yang Rising |
| Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
| Da Chai Hu Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
| Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Liver Yang Rising |
| Zhen Xin An Shen Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Wu Ling San
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause sore knees, such as Oedema
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Sore Knees Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wu Ling San | Oedema |
| Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Oedema |
| Ping Wei San | Oedema |
| Wu Pi Yin | Oedema |
| Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Oedema |
| Zhen Wu Tang | Oedema |
| Shen Qi Wan | Oedema |
| Yu Gong San | Oedema |
| Zhou Che Wan | Oedema |
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency or Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Qi Ju Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Liver Yang Rising |
| Er Zhi Wan | Deficiency of the Liver and Kidney Yin |
| Zuo Gui Yin | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Yang Rising |
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Dang Gui Di Huang Yin, with dong quai as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Sheng Yu Tang | Qi and Blood Deficiency |
Formulas that promote urination and leach out Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Oedema.
One such formula is Wu Ling San, with water plantain as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wu Ling San | Oedema |
| Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Oedema |
| Wu Pi Yin | Oedema |
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Oedema.
One such formula is Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, with poria-cocos mushroom as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that warm and transform water and dampness" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Oedema |
| Zhen Wu Tang | Oedema |
Formulas that drive out excess water
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Oedema.
One such formula is Yu Gong San, with morning glory seeds as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that drive out excess water" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Yu Gong San | Oedema |
| Zhou Che Wan | Oedema |
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, with gastrodia rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for sore knees
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liver Yang Rising |
| Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Formulas that clear Liver-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San, with mudan peony bark as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Qi and Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang, with motherwort herb as a key herb.
Formulas that transform Dampness and harmonize Stomach
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Oedema.
One such formula is Ping Wei San, with black atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that warm Yang and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Oedema.
One such formula is Shen Qi Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas that release the Exterior and purge the Interior
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Da Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Formulas that sedate and calm the Mind
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Zhen Zhu Mu Wan, with mother of pearl as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
These formulas are suitable for some sore knees-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
Sore knees can be treated by these formulas if it stems from a deficiency in both Yin and Yang energies, necessitating a balanced approach to tonification.
One such formula is Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan, with fleeceflower root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Sore Knees
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address sore knees, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Cathartic herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that pacify internal liver wind and stop tremors
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
- Herbs that clear yin deficiency heat
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Laxative herbs that drain downward
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Sore knees can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Cibot Rhizomes (Gou Ji), which is directly recommended for sore knees.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cibot Rhizomes (Gou Ji) | Not applicable |
| Drynaria Rhizomes (Gu Sui Bu) | Not applicable |
| Eucommia Leaves (Du Zhong Ye) | Not applicable |
| Japanese Teasel Roots (Xu Duan) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Zuo Gui Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) | Zuo Gui Yin | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan |
| Dong Quai (Dang Gui) | Dang Gui Di Huang Yin | Sheng Yu Tang |
| Fleeceflower Roots (He Shou Wu) | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan |
Herbs that drain Dampness
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Wu Pi Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that drain Dampness" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) | Wu Pi Yin | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang |
| Water Plantain (Ze Xie) | Wu Ling San |
| Ginger Peel (Sheng Jiang Pi) | Wu Pi Yin |
Cathartic herbs that drain downward
Sore knees 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 Morning Glory Seeds (Qian Niu Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Yu Gong San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Cathartic herbs that drain downward" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Morning Glory Seeds (Qian Niu Zi) | Yu Gong San |
| Kansui Roots (Gan Sui) | Zhou Che Wan |
| Genkwa Flowers (Yuan Hua) | Zhou Che Wan |
Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors
Sore knees 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 Gambir Stems And Thorns (Gou Teng), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Gambir Stems And Thorns (Gou Teng) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang |
| Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin |
| Saiga Antelope's Horns (Ling Yang Jiao) | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang |
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Sore knees 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 Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Er Zhi Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Glossy Privet Fruits (Nu Zhen Zi) | Er Zhi Wan |
| Eclipta Herbs (Mo han lian) | Er Zhi Wan |
Herbs that cool the Blood
Sore knees 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 Mudan Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Mudan Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi) | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
| Mulberry Bark (Sang Bai Pi) | Wu Pi Yin |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang |
Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit
Sore knees 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 Mother Of Pearl (Zhen Zhu Mu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Zhen Zhu Mu Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit" recommended for sore knees
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Mother Of Pearl (Zhen Zhu Mu) | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan |
| Dragon Bones (Long Gu) | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan |
Herbs that clear Yin Deficiency Heat
Sore knees can be treated by these herbs if it results from a deficiency of Yin, which manifests as false heat symptoms, working to nourish Yin and lower heat.
One such herb is Chinese Holly Leaves (Gong Lao Ye), which is directly recommended for sore knees.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Sore knees 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 Motherwort Herbs (Yi Mu Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Sore knees 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 Stephania Roots (Fang Ji), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Ping Wei San.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Zhen Wu Tang.
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Sore knees 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 Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Shen Qi Wan.
Laxative herbs that drain downward
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Zhou Che Wan.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Sore knees can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for sore knees, like Da Chai Hu Tang.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Sore knees 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 sore knees, like Da Chai Hu Tang.