Symptom family: Vision Impairments and Disorders

Did you mean? Vitreous Opacity

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are small, shadowy shapes that drift across your field of vision. They may appear as spots, threads, or cobweb-like structures and can be particularly noticeable when looking at a plain, bright background, like a blue sky or a white wall.

These visual disturbances are caused by tiny pieces of the eye's vitreous, the gel-like substance filling the eyeball, which break loose and float within the inner eye fluid.

How Does TCM View Eye Floaters?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the concept of 'pattern' (also known as 'syndrome') is fundamental to understanding and treating ailments. A pattern is a comprehensive snapshot of a condition at a particular time, including all of its signs and symptoms, as well as the patient's emotional and physical state.

Identifying patterns is crucial because TCM treatments are tailored to correct the specific imbalances that these patterns reveal. For eye floaters, TCM may recognize patterns such as Qi Deficiency or Blood Stasis, each requiring a different treatment strategy. Understanding the underlying pattern is what allows TCM practitioners to provide personalized care, targeting not just the symptoms, but the root cause of the condition.

Root Causes of Eye Floaters in TCM

TCM suggests that eye floaters can arise from Deficiencies in the body's vital substances, notably Qi and Blood. For example, a Gallbladder Qi Deficiency may manifest as floaters accompanied by dizziness and indecision, while Liver Qi Deficiency could lead to similar visual symptoms along with emotional timidity.

Addressing these root causes through tailored treatments is a fundamental aspect of TCM’s healing philosophy, offering a pathway to not just symptomatic relief but long-term wellness.

Explore below more details about what might cause Eye floaters according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Common Symptoms: Timidity Easily Startled Lack Of Bravery Indecision Sighing Dizziness Blurry Vision Nervousness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Liver Qi Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Si Wu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Vivid Dreaming Dull Pale Complexion Pale Lips Blurry Vision Night Blindness Tingling Of Limbs

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Si Wu Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency 'Floaters' in eyes, Floaters in eyes, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Yi Guan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao 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 Eye Floaters

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Blurry Vision Depression Limb Numbness Insomnia Night Blindness Scanty Menstruation Amenorrhea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency 'Floaters' in eyes, Floaters in eyes, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Yi Guan Jian
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Liver Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Blurry vision, Dull pale complexion, Scanty menstruation, Limb numbness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Dizziness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Amenorrhea, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Vivid dreaming... see more Suan Zao Ren Tang | Si Wu Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Liver Qi Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Vivid dreaming, Depression, Irritability, Hypochondriac distention, Irregular periods, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, Abdominal distention... see more Si Wu Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Xiao Yao San
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
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 Eye Floaters

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Gallbladder Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Timidity, Easily startled, Lack of bravery, Indecision, Sighing, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Nervousness, Early awakening, Vivid dreaming... see more Wen Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Palpitations, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Poor memory, Anxiety, Easily startled, Dull pale complexion, Pale lips, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Tingling of limbs, Limb numbness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Muscle cramps, Muscle weakness, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Withered and brittle nails... see more Gui Pi Tang | Sheng Yu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Floaters

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency Floaters in eyes, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Dull pale complexion, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Emaciation, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pale lips, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction... see more Gui Pi Tang | Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Eye Floaters

In addressing eye floaters, TCM may utilize herbs and formulas like Wen Dan Tang for transforming Phlegm due to Gallbladder Deficiency or Si Wu Tang to tonify the Blood for Liver Qi Deficiency.

Another approach is to nourish the Blood and Yin with Gui Pi Tang or Suan Zao Ren Tang, thereby addressing the Heart and Liver Blood Deficiency. The selection of herbs is nuanced, aligning with the specific TCM pattern each patient presents.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address eye floaters, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that sedate and calm the mind
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Floaters Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Si Wu Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Wen Dan Tang Gallbladder Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Liver Qi Deficiency
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Floaters Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Liver Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Floaters Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Suan Zao Ren Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Yin Deficiency
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Floaters Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for eye floaters

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Wu Tang Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Qi Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency
Sheng Yu Tang Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for eye floaters

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Liver Yin Deficiency

Acupoints for Eye Floaters

In TCM, acupressure points such as Ganshu BL-18 and Zanzhu BL-2 are indicated for eye floaters, believed to benefit the eyes by resolving Damp-Heat and nourishing Liver Blood.

Additionally, Zhaohai KID-6 supports Kidney Yin and can address underlying Deficiencies contributing to floaters. These points are selected based on their traditional associations with eye health and their ability to harmonize the flow of Qi and Blood to the visual organs.

Explore below some acupoints used to address eye floaters, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Kidney Channel
Zanzhu BL-2

Zanzhu BL-2

On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.

Ganshu BL-18

Ganshu BL-18

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Zhaohai KID-6

Zhaohai KID-6

Approximately 1 cun below the medial malleolus tip, over the joint space between the talus and the calcaneus.