Esophageal Varicesaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Esophageal Disorders
What is Esophageal Varices?
Esophageal varices are swollen veins in the lining of the lower esophagus, typically caused by obstructed blood flow through the portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines and spleen to the liver. This condition is often associated with liver cirrhosis. When the blood flow to the liver is blocked, blood backs up into other veins, including those in the esophagus, leading to enlargement and risk of rupture. Symptoms can include vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, and lightheadedness due to blood loss.
How Does TCM View Esophageal Varices?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), esophageal varices are viewed as a result of internal imbalances and stagnation. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on the physical blockage and venous pressure, TCM considers the underlying patterns of disharmony that lead to these symptoms. Esophageal varices can be associated with various patterns, such as Blood Stagnation. Identifying the correct pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as TCM aims to restore balance and harmony within the body's systems.
Causes of Esophageal Varices According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, esophageal varices are often attributed to Blood Stagnation. This pattern arises when the normal flow of Blood is impeded, leading to a buildup and subsequent swelling of veins, particularly in the esophagus. Symptoms associated with Blood Stagnation include dark, clotted blood in stools, abdominal pain, and a darkened complexion. This condition can result from Liver dysfunction, which aligns with the Western understanding of portal hypertension. Addressing Blood Stagnation involves restoring smooth blood flow and alleviating the pressure that causes vein enlargement.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Esophageal Varices
To treat esophageal varices due to Blood Stagnation, TCM recommends formulas such as Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan. This formula includes Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb known for its bitter and cold properties that invigorate Blood and dispel Stagnation. By promoting the movement of Blood and resolving clots, this formula helps reduce the swelling and pressure in the esophageal veins. The specific choice of formula depends on the individual’s condition and the precise diagnosis of Blood Stagnation.
See more details below about Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan, a herbal formula used to address esophageal varices.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Esophageal varices can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan, with rhubarb as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Esophageal Varices
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address esophageal varices, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Esophageal varices can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for esophageal varices, like Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Esophageal varices 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 Ground Beetles (Tu Bie Chong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for esophageal varices, like Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan.