Symptom family: Gynecological Conditions

Sub-symptom(s): Bacterial Vaginosis

Did you mean? Cervicitis Vulvitis

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discomfort, discharge, and intense itchiness. This condition may stem from various causes, including infections, changes in the vaginal microbiome, or irritants. Bacterial vaginosis is a common form, characterized by a disruption in the natural balance of bacteria within the vagina. The symptoms of vaginitis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making diagnosis and treatment essential.

How does TCM view vaginitis?

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, vaginitis is viewed through a lens of holistic imbalance rather than a singular disease entity. TCM posits that symptoms like those seen in vaginitis arise from underlying patterns of disharmony within the body.

It emphasizes the importance of identifying and correcting these patterns to alleviate symptoms. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on direct causative agents, TCM seeks to understand the broader systemic imbalances leading to vaginitis.

Root Causes of Vaginitis in TCM

In TCM, the causes of vaginitis are attributed to various patterns of imbalance, particularly Dampness and Qi or Yin Deficiency. Dampness can manifest as Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel, leading to symptoms such as yellow vaginal discharge and vulvar itching. This condition reflects an excess of Heat and moisture in the body, disrupting its natural functions.

Conversely, Qi Deficiency, specifically Spleen Deficiency with Dampness, can present as fatigue, edema, and a feeling of heaviness. These patterns underscore the complexity of diagnosing and treating vaginitis in TCM, highlighting the need to tailor treatments to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Spleen
  • Kidney
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Common Symptoms: Vulvar Itching Insomnia Dark Urine Excessive Vaginal Discharge Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge Sticky Vaginal Discharge Vaginal Itching Yellow Vaginal Discharge

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel vaginitis, Vulvar itching, Yellow vaginal discharge, Painful intercourse, Restlessness, Irritability, Insomnia, Dark urine, Excessive vaginal discharge, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge, Sticky vaginal discharge... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness vaginitis, Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness vaginitis, Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency vaginitis, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel vaginitis, Vulvar itching, Yellow vaginal discharge, Painful intercourse, Restlessness, Irritability, Insomnia, Dark urine, Excessive vaginal discharge, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge, Sticky vaginal discharge... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Common Symptoms: Insomnia Vaginal Itching Vulvar Itching Yellow Vaginal Discharge Painful Intercourse Restlessness Irritability Dark Urine

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency vaginitis, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan
Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel vaginitis, Vulvar itching, Yellow vaginal discharge, Painful intercourse, Restlessness, Irritability, Insomnia, Dark urine, Excessive vaginal discharge, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge, Sticky vaginal discharge... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen Deficiency with Dampness vaginitis, Edema, Feeling of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary dysfunction, Glomerulonephritis, Kidney infection, Nephrotic syndrome, Cystitis, Hydrocele, Migraine... see more Liu Jun Zi Tang | Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vaginitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency vaginitis, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Vaginitis

In addressing vaginitis, TCM practitioners may recommend various formulas and herbs, chosen based on the underlying pattern of disharmony. For Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel, Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, featuring Chinese Gentian, is commonly prescribed to clear heat and dry dampness.

For Spleen Deficiency with Dampness, formulas like Liu Jun Zi Tang and Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin may be used to tonify Qi and transform dampness, utilizing key herbs like Ginseng and Fish-poison yam. These treatments are indicative of TCM's nuanced approach, focusing on restoring balance and harmony within the body to alleviate the symptoms of vaginitis.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify

All Formulas Recommended for Vaginitis Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Damp-Heat in the Liver Channel
Liu Jun Zi Tang Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin Spleen Deficiency with Dampness

All Formulas Recommended for Vaginitis Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liu Jun Zi Tang Spleen Deficiency with Dampness
Bi Xie Fen Qing Yin Spleen Deficiency with Dampness

TCM Herbs for Vaginitis

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address vaginitis, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
  • Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Herbs that drain dampness
  • Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency

"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for vaginitis

Herb Formulas they belong to (if applicable)
Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao) Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bo) Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan