Hepatic Stoneaccording to TCM

Symptom families: Biliary & Gallbladder Disorders, Hepatitis and Liver Conditions

What is Hepatic Stone?

Hepatic stone, commonly known as liver stones, refers to the formation of stones within the liver. These stones can vary in size and are usually composed of cholesterol or pigments. They often form in the bile ducts of the liver and can lead to blockages, causing pain, infection, or even liver damage.

The condition may be asymptomatic or can manifest symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, jaundice, and nausea. Understanding and managing hepatic Stone is crucial for maintaining liver health and preventing complications.

How Does TCM View Hepatic Stone?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches hepatic stone with a holistic perspective, different from Western medicine. In TCM, this condition is often associated with imbalances in the body's energy flow or Qi, specifically related to the Liver and Gallbladder.

TCM practitioners believe that emotional stress, diet, and lifestyle factors can contribute to the formation of liver stones. The treatment focuses on restoring balance, improving Qi flow, and addressing the underlying causes rather than just the symptoms.

Causes of Hepatic Stone According to TCM

In TCM, the formation of hepatic stone is often attributed to the accumulation of Damp-Heat in the Liver and Gallbladder. This condition arises when the body's ability to process and eliminate moisture is impaired, combined with an excess of heat.

Damp-Heat can lead to the formation of stones by causing bile to become thick and sludgy. Another contributing factor may be Qi Stagnation in the liver, which can result from emotional stress or an unhealthy diet, further exacerbating the imbalance and leading to stone formation.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Hepatic Stone

For the treatment of hepatic stone, TCM recommends specific formulas and herbs that target the underlying patterns. One such formula is Pai Shi Tang, which includes Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu) as a key ingredient.

This formula is known for its ability to clear Heat and expel Dampness, particularly targeting the Gallbladder and Liver. It helps in dissolving stones and alleviating symptoms associated with hepatic stone. The treatment approach in TCM is holistic, aiming not only to remove stones but also to restore balance and prevent recurrence.

See more details below about Pai Shi Tang, a herbal formula used to address hepatic stone.

By Formula Type

Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness

Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness

Hepatic stone can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness if it results from heat combined with damp conditions in the body.

One such formula is Pai Shi Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.

TCM Herbs for Hepatic Stone

See more details below about Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a herb used to address hepatic stone.

By Herb Category

Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior

Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior

Hepatic stone 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 Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for hepatic stone, like Pai Shi Tang.