Alternating Diarrhea And Constipationaccording to TCM

What is Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation?

Alternating diarrhea and constipation is a fluctuating bowel pattern experienced by individuals, where they oscillate between loose stools and hard, difficult-to-pass stools. This condition reflects an imbalance in digestive function and can significantly affect one's quality of life.

It may be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation. Understanding this condition's underlying causes is essential for effective management and relief.

How does TCM view Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches alternating diarrhea and constipation as a sign of disharmony within the body's energy systems, particularly involving the Spleen, Liver, and Gallbladder. TCM posits that a balanced flow of Qi (vital energy) and proper Yin and Yang balance are crucial for healthy digestive functions.

Factors such as emotional stress, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices can disrupt this balance, leading to symptoms like alternating bowel habits. TCM treatments aim to restore harmony and balance, focusing on the underlying patterns of disharmony rather than just the symptoms.

Root Causes of Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation in TCM

In TCM, alternating diarrhea and constipation is often attributed to several disharmony patterns such as Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder and Liver Qi Stagnation. Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder can manifest as loose stools or constipation, accompanied by symptoms like hypochondriac pain, nausea, and a feeling of heat.

On the other hand, Liver Qi Stagnation is characterized by emotional stress affecting the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as hypochondriac distention and mood swings. These patterns highlight the intricate relationship between emotional well-being and physical health in TCM, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Alternating diarrhea and constipation according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Alternating constipation and diarrhea, 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 Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Rebellion

Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more

Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao Tang
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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao 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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Common Symptoms: Abdominal Distention Irritability Abdominal Pain Hypochondriac Distention Chest Distension Upper Abdominal Distension Sighing Melancholia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Alternating constipation and diarrhea, 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 Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen Alternating constipation and diarrhea, Irritability, Abdominal distention, Abdominal pain, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Dry stools, Excessive gas and flatulence, Generalized fatigue... see more Xiao Yao San | Tong Xie Yao Fang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Loose stools or constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Food Stagnation in the Stomach Loose stools or constipation, Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, Nausea, Vomiting of sour fluids, Bad breath, Acid reflux, Belching, Insomnia, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Lack of appetite, Abdominal pain due to overeating... see more Bao He Wan | Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan | Gua Di San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

For treating alternating diarrhea and constipation, TCM relies on herbal formulas to target the specific patterns of disharmony. For Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder, Yin Chen Hao Tang is often prescribed to clear Heat and expel Dampness, using herbs like Virgate wormwood.

For Liver Qi Stagnation, Xiao Yao San and its variation Jia Wei Xiao Yao San are commonly used to harmonize the Liver and Spleen, alleviating stress and restoring digestive balance.

When Rebellious Liver Qi affects the Spleen, formulas such as Tong Xie Yao Fang are utilized to soothe the Liver and strengthen the Spleen, addressing the root cause of the symptoms. These formulas exemplify TCM's nuanced approach to treating digestive irregularities by focusing on restoring balance and harmony within the body's systems.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that induce vomiting

All Formulas Recommended for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation Caused by Qi Rebellion

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
Tong Xie Yao Fang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Tong Xie Yao Fang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Spleen

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation" recommended for alternating diarrhea and constipation

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bao He Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach
Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach

TCM Herbs for Alternating Diarrhea And Constipation

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address alternating diarrhea and constipation, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
  • Herbs that invigorate the blood
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
  • Herbs that drain dampness
  • Herbs that relieve food stagnation
  • Herbs that regulate qi
  • Purgative herbs that drain downward
  • Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough