Epigastric Palpitationsaccording to TCM

What is Epigastric Palpitations?

Epigastric palpitations describe a sensation where individuals feel a fluttering or abnormal movement in the upper abdomen, near the stomach. This symptom can mimic heart palpitations but occurs below the chest area. While often less discussed than cardiac palpitations, epigastric palpitations can indicate disturbances in digestive or autonomic functions and may be associated with discomfort or pain in the epigastric region. Identifying the precise cause of these sensations is crucial for effective treatment, as they can stem from a variety of gastrointestinal or systemic issues.

How does TCM View Epigastric Palpitations?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), epigastric palpitations are seen not just as a symptom of a local disturbance but as a reflection of broader imbalances within the body's energetic system. TCM suggests that such palpitations result from disruptions in the flow of Qi, or life force. The diagnosis and treatment approach in TCM revolves around identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony—such as Cold invading the Interior or Qi Stagnation—highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to restore balance and health.

Root Causes of Epigastric Palpitations in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) attributes epigastric palpitations to various internal imbalances, such as the invasion of Exterior Cold into the Interior. This condition reflects a scenario where cold external elements breach the body's natural defenses, disrupting the normal function of internal organs.

The resulting symptoms include palpitations in the epigastric region, accompanied by abdominal pain, chills, and a general sensation of cold in the extremities. TCM theory posits that such disruptions severely impact the Stomach and Spleen Channels, leading to a cascade of digestive and systemic symptoms. Addressing these imbalances involves warming the interior and restoring the proper flow of Qi.

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

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 Epigastric Palpitations

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Exterior Cold invading the Interior	Palpitations in the epigastrium, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Chills, Low grade fever, Cold extremities, Sweating that doesn't reduce fever, Epigastric palpitations, Dizziness, Twitching... see more	Zhen Wu Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Epigastric Palpitations

For the treatment of epigastric palpitations, especially those arising from Exterior Cold invading the Interior, TCM recommends specific herbal formulas that focus on warming the body's core and dispelling Cold. A primary formula used in such cases is Zhen Wu Tang, which features Prepared aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) as a key ingredient.

This herb is highly valued for its warming properties and ability to expel internal Cold, thereby alleviating symptoms like palpitations, cold extremities, and abdominal pain. By targeting the root cause of the cold invasion, this formula helps to stabilize the internal environment and reduce the occurrence of palpitations.

See more details below about Zhen Wu Tang, a herbal formula used to address epigastric palpitations.

Top Formula for Cold:
Zhen Wu Tang

Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause epigastric palpitations, such as Exterior Cold invading the Interior

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TCM Herbs for Epigastric Palpitations

See more details below about Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), a herb used to address epigastric palpitations.