Stiff Chestaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Chest Swelling, Congestion, and Physical Changes

What is Stiff Chest?

Stiff chest, also known as diaphragmatic tightness, oppressive feeling in the chest, or stifling sensation in the chest, is characterized by a persistent feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest area. This condition may cause discomfort and difficulty in breathing, often leading to deep sighs in an attempt to alleviate the pressure. The sensation can range from mild to severe, affecting daily activities and overall well-being. Medically, it is important to differentiate between various underlying causes, as stiff chest can be a symptom of more serious conditions.

How does TCM view stiff chest?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stiff chest is viewed through the lens of disharmony within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes, TCM looks at the balance of Qi (vital energy) and how its stagnation or imbalance can lead to symptoms.

Stiff chest is often associated with patterns such as Phlegm, Heat, Dampness, Qi Stagnation, or Wind. Identifying the specific pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as each pattern requires a different therapeutic approach to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.

Root Causes of Stiff Chest in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stiff chest can result from various patterns of disharmony. For example, one common cause is the accumulation of Phlegm in the Lungs, which obstructs the flow of Qi and creates a sensation of tightness. Another potential cause is Liver Qi Stagnation, where the smooth flow of Qi is hindered, leading to discomfort and a stifling sensation in the chest. Each pattern presents distinct symptoms and requires a targeted approach to treatment, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis in TCM.

Explore below more details about what might cause Stiff chest according to TCM.

By Syndrome
By Organ

Phlegm
Heat
Dampness
Qi Stagnation
Wind
Blood Stasis
Mind Disturbance
Dryness
Summer Heat
Cold
View More Causes

View More Causes

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 Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Feeling Of Heaviness Coughing Shortness Of Breath Wheezing Limb Numbness Sputum Asthma

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm	Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more	Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more	Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more	Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Phlegm in the Channels joints and muscles	Stifling sensation in the chest, Skin numbness, Skeletal deformities, Joint stiffness, Arthralgia, Muscle pain	Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm, Itchy throat... see more	Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang \| Zhi Sou San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more	Er Chen Tang \| Wen Dan Tang \| Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan \| Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang \| Qing Xin Li Ge Tang \| Ren Shen Ge Jie San \| Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum	Xiao Qing Long Tang
Phlegm	Chest pressure, Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness	Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang \| Xiao Ban Xia Tang

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 Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Thirst Bitter Taste In The Mouth Fever Feeling Of Heat Headaches Flushed Face Feeling Of Heaviness Cholecystitis

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold	Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Pericardium Fire	Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more	Xie Xin Tang \| Zi Xue Dan
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more	Er Chen Tang \| Wen Dan Tang \| Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan \| Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang \| Qing Xin Li Ge Tang \| Ren Shen Ge Jie San \| Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Damp-Heat	Chest pressure, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more	Ba Zheng San
Heat in Gall Bladder	Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chills with high fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vomiting of sour fluids, Thirst, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness, Cholecystitis, Icteric hepatitis, Kidney infection... see more	Hao Qin Qing Dan 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 Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Dizziness Fever Headaches Thirst Coughing Pale Face Sputum

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more	Er Chen Tang
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold	Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Damp-Heat	Chest pressure, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more	Ba Zheng San

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Chest Distension Sighing Depression Irritability Lack Of Appetite Mild Chest Pain Throat Lumps Palpitations

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Qi Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more	Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest causing one to have deep sighs, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Chai Hu Shu Gan San

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 Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Headaches Dizziness Aphasia Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Noisy Breathing Limb Numbness Itchy Ears Chest Pain

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm	Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more	Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold	Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin

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 Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more	Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Fire	Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more	Xie Xin Tang \| Zi Xue Dan

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more	Bei Mu Gua Lou San

Summer Heat

"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

Summer Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold	Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin

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 Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold	Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin

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 Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Dizziness Coughing Sputum Wheezing Feeling Of Heaviness Pale Face Asthma

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more	Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more	Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm, Itchy throat... see more	Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang \| Zhi Sou San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs	Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more	Er Chen Tang \| Wen Dan Tang \| Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan \| Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang \| Qing Xin Li Ge Tang \| Ren Shen Ge Jie San \| Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Chest Distension Shortness Of Breath Purple Lips Depression Mild Chest Pain Chest Pain Purple Nails

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more	Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Pericardium Fire	Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more	Xie Xin Tang \| Zi Xue Dan
Pericardium Qi Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more	Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang

Gallbladder

In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat in Gall Bladder	Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chills with high fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vomiting of sour fluids, Thirst, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness, Cholecystitis, Icteric hepatitis, Kidney infection... see more	Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang

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 Stiff Chest

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Stifling sensation in the chest causing one to have deep sighs, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Chai Hu Shu Gan San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Stiff Chest

To address stiff chest, TCM utilizes specific formulas and herbs tailored to the underlying pattern of disharmony. For instance, Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang is used to treat Wind-Phlegm patterns, incorporating Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia) to transform Phlegm and stop coughing. Er Chen Tang is another formula recommended for Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, also featuring Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia) as a key herb.

For Heat-related patterns, Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin includes Vietnamese Balm (Xiang Ru) to dispel Summer-Heat and resolve Exterior conditions. Additionally, Xie Xin Tang with Rhubarb (Da Huang) is used to clear Heat and resolve toxicity, particularly in cases involving Pericardium Fire. Each formula is carefully chosen to match the patient's specific condition, ensuring a holistic and effective treatment approach.

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

By Cause
By Formula Type

Phlegm
Heat
Dampness
Qi Stagnation
Wind
Blood Stasis
Mind Disturbance
Dryness
Summer Heat
Cold
View More Causes

View More Causes

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Er Chen Tang

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Phlegm

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang	Wind-Phlegm
Bei Mu Gua Lou San	Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang	Phlegm in the Channels joints and muscles
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang	Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Zhi Sou San	Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang	Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang	Phlegm
Xiao Ban Xia Tang	Phlegm

Top Formula for Heat:
Er Chen Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Heat

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin	Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang	Heat in Gall Bladder
Xie Xin Tang	Pericardium Fire
Zi Xue Dan	Pericardium Fire
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ba Zheng San	Damp-Heat

Top Formula for Dampness:
Er Chen Tang

Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Dampness

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin	Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Ba Zheng San	Damp-Heat

Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang

Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Pericardium Qi Stagnation

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang	Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San	Liver Qi Stagnation

Top Formula for Wind:
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang

Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Wind-Phlegm

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Wind

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang	Wind-Phlegm
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin	Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold

Top Formula for Blood Stasis:
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang

Suitable for Blood Stasis patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Pericardium Blood Stagnation

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Top Formula for Mind Disturbance:
Xie Xin Tang

Suitable for Mind Disturbance patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Pericardium Fire

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All Formulas Recommended for Stiff Chest Caused by Mind Disturbance

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Xie Xin Tang	Pericardium Fire
Zi Xue Dan	Pericardium Fire

Top Formula for Dryness:
Bei Mu Gua Lou San

Suitable for Dryness patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs

Learn more

Top Formula for Summer Heat:
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin

Suitable for Summer Heat patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold

Learn more

Top Formula for Cold:
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause stiff chest, such as Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold

Learn more

Formulas that transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Wind-Phlegm.

One such formula is Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind" recommended for stiff chest

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang	Wind-Phlegm
Zhi Sou San	Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs

Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.

One such formula is Er Chen Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for stiff chest

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang	Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

Formulas that promote Qi movement

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Pericardium Qi Stagnation.

One such formula is Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.

Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for stiff chest

Formula	Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang	Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San	Liver Qi Stagnation

Formulas that dispel Phlegm

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs.

One such formula is Bei Mu Gua Lou San, with sichuan fritillary bulb as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and resolve Exterior

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold.

One such formula is Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin, with vietnamese balm as a key herb.

Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Heat in Gall Bladder.

One such formula is Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, with sweet wormwood herb as a key herb.

Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Pericardium Blood Stagnation.

One such formula is Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Pericardium Fire.

One such formula is Xie Xin Tang, with rhubarb as a key herb.

Formulas that clear Heat and open sensory orifices

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Pericardium Fire.

One such formula is Zi Xue Dan, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.

Formulas that regulate Blood

These formulas are suitable for some stiff chest-causing patterns like Phlegm in the Channels joints and muscles.

One such formula is Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.