Cholangitisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Biliary & Gallbladder Disorders
Did you mean? Cholecystitis
What is Cholangitis?
Cholangitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts. This inflammation typically results from a bacterial infection, often caused by a blockage in the bile ducts due to gallstones or tumors.
Cholangitis can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly, such as liver damage or sepsis. The condition manifests through symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, and sometimes chills. It's a serious health issue that requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications and maintain the health of the biliary system.
How Does TCM View Cholangitis?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cholangitis is seen through the prism of energy flow and balance within the body. TCM interprets this condition as a consequence of imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy) and the invasion of external pathogenic factors like Dampness and Heat.
The focus of TCM is on restoring the balance and harmony of Qi, and strengthening the body's defensive mechanisms to eliminate these pathogenic influences. TCM practitioners use a holistic approach, considering the patient's overall physical and emotional state to tailor a personalized treatment plan.
Causes of Cholangitis According to TCM
In TCM, cholangitis is often linked to two primary imbalances. The first is the accumulation of Toxic-Heat in the Liver and gallbladder, leading to inflammation and infection in the bile ducts. This imbalance is often exacerbated by dietary habits, stress, or environmental factors.
The second pattern involves Qi Stagnation in the Liver, resulting in a disruption of bile flow and accumulation of toxins. TCM treatments focus on clearing Damp-Heat, promoting Qi circulation, and detoxifying the Liver and Gallbladder to alleviate symptoms and address the root causes of the condition.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Cholangitis
TCM employs a variety of formulas and herbs to treat cholangitis, tailored to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony. For clearing Heat and resolving toxicity, Liang Ge San is often used, with Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao) as a key ingredient. This herb is known for its properties of clearing Heat and relieving Toxicity, targeting the Heart, Lung, and Small intestine.
Additionally, to promote Qi movement and alleviate stagnation, Yue Ju Wan is recommended. It includes Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) as a crucial herb, which is beneficial for tonifying Qi Deficiency and targeting the Spleen and Stomach. These formulations are part of a comprehensive approach to restore balance and promote healing in cases of cholangitis.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address cholangitis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
- Formulas that promote qi movement
Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity
Cholangitis can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity if it arises from heat toxins affecting the body.
One such formula is Liang Ge San, with forsythia fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that promote Qi movement
Cholangitis can be treated by these formulas if it stems from stagnation or imbalance in the flow of Qi, the vital life energy, within the body.
One such formula is Yue Ju Wan, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Cholangitis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address cholangitis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity
Cholangitis can be treated by these herbs if it arises from internal heat and toxic accumulations, aiding in detoxification and cooling the body.
One such herb is Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cholangitis, like Liang Ge San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity" recommended for cholangitis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Forsythia Fruits (Lian Qiao) | Liang Ge San |
| Milk Thistle Seeds (Shui Fei Ji) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Cholangitis 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 Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cholangitis, like Yue Ju Wan.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Cholangitis 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 Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cholangitis, like Yue Ju Wan.