Stomach Splashing Soundaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Abdominal Sounds
Did you mean? Borborygmi Stomach Churning
What is Stomach Splashing Sound?
Stomach splashing sound, a phenomenon as curious as its name suggests, refers to the audible noises that originate from the abdomen, reminiscent of water being sloshed or gurgled within the stomach. This symptom, often benign but sometimes indicative of digestive disturbances, captures attention not only for its auditory presence but for the underlying conditions it may signal.
How does TCM view stomach splashing sound?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) delves deep into the symphony of bodily sounds, viewing the stomach splashing sound not as a mere digestive quirk but as a signpost pointing towards imbalance.
TCM posits that such sounds herald disharmony within the body's elemental and energetic framework, necessitating a careful unraveling of the underlying patterns disrupting the harmonious flow of Qi and fluids through the digestive tract.
Root Causes of Stomach Splashing Sound in TCM
In the rich tapestry of TCM diagnostics, stomach splashing sound is often traced back to the accumulation of Phlegm-Fluids within the digestive system, particularly within the Stomach and Small Intestine. This condition, marked by a constellation of symptoms including the characteristic sloshing sounds, abdominal distension, and a dry mouth devoid of thirst, underscores the intricate dance of bodily fluids and energies gone awry. Such patterns of disharmony demand a nuanced understanding and approach, one that TCM provides through its holistic lens.
Explore below more details about what might cause Stomach splashing sound according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Small Intestine
- Stomach
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 Stomach Splashing Sound
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine | Splashing sound in the stomach, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang |
Small Intestine
In TCM the Small Intestine plays a critical role in receiving partially digested food from the Stomach and further separating the clear from the turbid, essentially distinguishing nutrients from waste. This process is vital for proper absorption and assimilation of food. The Small Intestine is also associated with clarity of judgment and decision-making. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, poor appetite, or irregular bowel movements. Additionally, a malfunctioning Small Intestine may manifest as mental confusion or difficulty in making decisions, reflecting its role in discernment and clarity in both physical and mental realms. ... see more
Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Stomach Splashing Sound
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine | Splashing sound in the stomach, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan 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 Stomach Splashing Sound
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine | Splashing sound in the stomach, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Stomach Splashing Sound
Addressing stomach splashing sounds through TCM involves a blend of herbal wisdom and energetic rebalancing. Formulas like Xiao Chai Hu Tang and Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang emerge as pivotal in this therapeutic journey. The former, with Bupleurum Roots at its core, seeks to harmonize the lesser Yang, while the latter employs Goldthread Rhizomes to dry Dampness and clear Heat, directly targeting the Phlegm-Fluids contributing to the auditory disturbances. These treatments, tailored to the individual’s unique pattern of imbalance, exemplify TCM’s commitment to restoring harmony and quelling the internal waves causing the splashing sounds.
In the narrative of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the stomach splashing sound is more than an oddity; it's a whisper from the body signaling the need for balance. Through its holistic approaches, TCM not only quiets the noise but also nurtures the body back to a state of harmony and health, illustrating the profound dialogue between body and practitioner in the pursuit of well-being.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address stomach splashing sound, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that harmonize stomach-Intestines
- Formulas for a rebellious qi
- Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause stomach splashing sound, such as Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Stomach Splashing Sound Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine |
| Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine |
| Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine |
| Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine |
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
These formulas are suitable for some stomach splashing sound-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine.
One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize Stomach-Intestines
These formulas are suitable for some stomach splashing sound-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine.
One such formula is Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas for a rebellious Qi
These formulas are suitable for some stomach splashing sound-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine.
One such formula is Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang, with inula flower as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some stomach splashing sound-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine.
One such formula is Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, with poria-cocos mushroom as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Stomach Splashing Sound
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address stomach splashing sound, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that drain dampness
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Stomach splashing sound 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 stomach splashing sound, like Xiao Chai Hu Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Stomach splashing sound 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 Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian), a key herb in some formulas recommended for stomach splashing sound, like Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Stomach splashing sound can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Inula Flowers (Xuan Fu Hua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for stomach splashing sound, like Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Stomach splashing sound 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 stomach splashing sound, like Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang.