Esophageal Constrictionaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Esophageal Disorders
What is Esophageal Constriction?
Esophageal constriction refers to an uncomfortable tightening of the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. This condition can cause difficulty in swallowing, a sensation of food being stuck in the chest, and can lead to more serious complications such as esophageal strictures. It may arise from various underlying conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, or the presence of foreign bodies or tumors.
How does TCM view Esophageal Constriction?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches esophageal constriction not as a single disease but as a symptom indicative of an underlying imbalance. TCM theory suggests that such a constriction could result from a disruption of Qi flow within the body, particularly in the chest, or from an accumulation of Phlegm or Heat in the esophagus. Identifying the exact pattern of disharmony is essential in TCM for providing a treatment that addresses the root cause.
Causes of Esophageal Constriction According to TCM
In TCM, esophageal constriction is often attributed to a Stagnation of Qi, where the vital energy is blocked, or the presence of Heat, which can 'scorch' Body Fluids and lead to a sensation of tightness. Qi Stagnation may be due to emotional distress affecting the Liver's smooth flow of energy, impacting the Stomach and Spleen.
Heat can accumulate from dietary habits or chronic stress, leading to inflammation and a 'burning' sensation. Treatment focuses on restoring the harmonious flow of Qi and clearing Heat or Phlegm that may be contributing to the constriction.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Esophageal Constriction
Herbal formulas are tailored to the individual's TCM diagnosis. Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang is a go-to formula for moving Qi and reducing stagnation in cases where Qi blockage is the root cause.
For Heat patterns causing constriction in the chest, Zhi Zi Chi Tang, with its cooling properties, is commonly prescribed. These formulas aim to restore balance and ensure the free flow of energy through the esophagus.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address esophageal constriction, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that promote qi movement
- Formulas that clear qi-level heat
Formulas that promote Qi movement
Esophageal constriction 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 Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Qi-level Heat
Esophageal constriction can be treated by these formulas when it results from an intense heat condition at the qi level, affecting the body's energy flow.
One such formula is Zhi Zi Chi Tang, with cape jasmine fruit as a key herb.
Acupoints for Esophageal Constriction
TCM also utilizes acupuncture to treat esophageal constriction. Gongsun SP-4, located on the Spleen meridian, is a potent point for harmonizing the Spleen and Stomach, essential for addressing digestive issues related to esophageal constriction. By activating these points, acupuncturists aim to relieve the physical tightness and improve the patient's symptoms.
See more details below about Gongsun SP-4, an acupoint used to address esophageal constriction.
- By Meridian
- Spleen Channel
Gongsun SP-4
In the depression distal and inferior to the base of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.
TCM Herbs for Esophageal Constriction
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address esophageal constriction, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Esophageal constriction 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 Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), a key herb in some formulas recommended for esophageal constriction, like Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Esophageal constriction can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Houpu Magnolia Bark (Hou Pu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for esophageal constriction, like Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Esophageal constriction can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for esophageal constriction, like Zhi Zi Chi Tang.