Head And Body Heavinessaccording to TCM
Symptom family: General Body Pain and Discomfort
Parent symptom: Feeling Of Heaviness
What is Head and Body Heaviness?
Head and body heaviness refers to a sensation of weight or pressure affecting the head and the rest of the body. This symptom can make individuals feel sluggish and fatigued, impacting their daily activities and overall quality of life. It is often described as a feeling of being weighed down, making movement and concentration difficult. This sensation can be associated with various medical conditions, ranging from mild infections to chronic diseases, and it is essential to understand its underlying causes for proper treatment.
How does TCM View Head and Body Heaviness?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), head and body heaviness is viewed through the lens of imbalances and disharmony within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which might attribute such symptoms to specific diseases or physical conditions, TCM considers a broader range of factors, including the flow of Qi (energy), Blood, and Body Fluids. Identifying the correct pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM as it guides the treatment approach, ensuring that the underlying cause is addressed rather than just alleviating the symptoms.
Root Causes of Head And Body Heaviness in TCM
TCM identifies several patterns that can cause the sensation of head and body heaviness. One common cause is Dampness, particularly when Cold-Damp invades the Spleen. This condition manifests with symptoms like lack of appetite, epigastric coldness, sweet taste in the mouth, and diarrhea, alongside the characteristic heaviness.
Another pattern involves Damp-Heat in the Stomach and Spleen, where symptoms include upper abdominal oppression, nausea, and fever not reduced by sweating. These patterns highlight how environmental factors and internal imbalances can disrupt the body's harmony, leading to the feeling of heaviness.
Explore below more details about what might cause Head and body heaviness according to TCM.
Dampness
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Head And Body Heaviness
Common Symptoms: Diarrhea Nausea Lack Of Appetite Epigastric Coldness Sweet Taste In Mouth Absence Of Thirst General Weakness Generalized Fatigue
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Cold-Damp invading the Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Lack of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Edema, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness... see more | Ping Wei San |
| Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating... see more | Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang |
Heat
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Head And Body Heaviness
Common Symptoms: Upper Abdominal Oppression Nausea Diarrhea Fever Not Reduced By Sweating Coughing Shortness Of Breath Wheezing Stifling Sensation In The Chest
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating... see more | Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang |
| Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Head And Body Heaviness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
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 Head And Body Heaviness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Cold-Damp invading the Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Lack of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Edema, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness... see more | Ping Wei San |
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 Head And Body Heaviness
Common Symptoms: Diarrhea Nausea Lack Of Appetite Epigastric Coldness Sweet Taste In Mouth Absence Of Thirst General Weakness Generalized Fatigue
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Cold-Damp invading the Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Lack of appetite, Epigastric coldness, Head and body heaviness, Sweet taste in mouth, Absence of thirst, Diarrhea, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Nausea, Edema, Dull pale complexion, White vaginal discharge, Upper abdominal fullness... see more | Ping Wei San |
| Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating... see more | Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang |
Stomach
In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more
Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Head And Body Heaviness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Head and body heaviness, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fever not reduced by sweating... see more | Lian Po Yin | Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang |
Lung
In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more
Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Head And Body Heaviness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Feeling of heaviness of the head and body, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Er Chen Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Head And Body Heaviness
The treatment of head and body heaviness in TCM depends on the identified pattern. For Cold-Damp invading the Spleen, the formula Ping Wei San, featuring Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), is commonly recommended. This formula helps transform Dampness and harmonize the Stomach.
For Damp-Heat in the Stomach and Spleen, Lian Po Yin, with Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian), and Ge Hua Jie Cheng San, with Kudzu Flowers (Ge Hua), are used to clear Heat and expel Dampness. These formulas work to restore balance by addressing the specific type of disharmony causing the heaviness, thus providing effective relief.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address head and body heaviness, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Dampness
- Heat
- Phlegm
- Cold
- View More Causes
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
- Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
- Formulas that reduce food stagnation with tonification
- Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
- Formulas that clear heat from the organs
- Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
- Formulas that clear lung-Heat
Top Formula for Dampness:
Ping Wei San
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause head and body heaviness, such as Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Head And Body Heaviness Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ping Wei San | Cold-Damp invading the Spleen |
| Lian Po Yin | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
Top Formula for Heat:
Lian Po Yin
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause head and body heaviness, such as Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Head And Body Heaviness Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Lian Po Yin | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Ge Hua Jie Cheng San | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wen Dan Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause head and body heaviness, such as Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Head And Body Heaviness Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Top Formula for Cold:
Ping Wei San
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause head and body heaviness, such as Cold-Damp invading the Spleen
Learn moreFormulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen.
One such formula is Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for head and body heaviness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang | Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen |
| Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Wen Dan Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for head and body heaviness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
| Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Formulas that transform Dampness and harmonize Stomach
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Cold-Damp invading the Spleen.
One such formula is Ping Wei San, with black atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen.
One such formula is Lian Po Yin, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that reduce food Stagnation with tonification
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen.
One such formula is Ge Hua Jie Cheng San, with kudzu flower as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan, with arisaema with bile as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Xin Li Ge Tang, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Lung-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some head and body heaviness-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin, with loquat leaves as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Head And Body Heaviness
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address head and body heaviness, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Cool herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Ephedra (Ma Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for head and body heaviness
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang |
| Saposhnikovia Roots (Fang Feng) | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang |
| Japanese Catnip (Jing Jie) | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang |
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Head and body heaviness 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 Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Ping Wei San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness" recommended for head and body heaviness
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu) | Ping Wei San |
| Houpu Magnolia Bark (Hou Pu) | Lian Po Yin |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Head and body heaviness 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 Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for head and body heaviness
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Sheng Yang Yi Wei Tang |
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Lian Po Yin.
Herbs that stop bleeding
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs in cases where it is due to internal or external bleeding, working to stabilize and constrict blood flow.
One such herb is Kudzu Flowers (Ge Hua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Ge Hua Jie Cheng San.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Head and body heaviness 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 head and body heaviness, like Wen Dan Tang.
Cool herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when it is related to heat-phlegm accumulation, aiding in dissolving phlegm and soothing the respiratory system.
One such herb is Arisaema With Bile (Dan Nan Xing), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan.
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Head and body heaviness 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 Gypsum (Shi Gao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Er Chen Tang.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Wild Mint (Bo He), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Qing Xin Li Ge Tang.
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Tokay Geckos (Ge Jie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Ren Shen Ge Jie San.
Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Head and body heaviness can be treated by these herbs when it originates from obstructions in the lung pathways, helping to ease respiratory discomfort and restore normal breathing.
One such herb is Loquat Leaves (Pi Pa Ye), a key herb in some formulas recommended for head and body heaviness, like Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin.