Root Causes of Mood Swings in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Mood swings according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Uterus
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Mood Swings

Common Symptoms: Irritability Depression Irregular Periods Breast Engorgement Abdominal Pain Globus Sensation Menstrual Cramps Dark Menstrual Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi And Blood Stagnation Moodiness, Mood swings, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San | Qi Li San | Dan Shen Yin | Guo Qi Yin
Liver Qi Stagnation Moodiness, Mood swings, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian | Gua Lou San
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Moodiness, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Qi Stagnation Mood swings, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Sighing Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Mo Tang | Qi Ge San
Qi-Phlegm Mood swings, Globus sensation, Dysphagia, Upper abdominal oppression, Irritability, Depression... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Mood Swings

Common Symptoms: Depression Stifling Sensation In The Chest Dizziness Nausea Feeling Of Heaviness Obesity Edema Generalized Fatigue

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Moodiness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness Yue Ju Wan | Wen Dan Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Moodiness, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Qi-Phlegm Mood swings, Globus sensation, Dysphagia, Upper abdominal oppression, Irritability, Depression... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
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 Mood Swings

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi And Blood Stagnation Moodiness, Mood swings, Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods... see more Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Tao Hong Si Wu Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wu Yao Tang | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Wei Jing Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San | Qi Li San | Dan Shen Yin | Guo Qi Yin
Detailed description of the cause

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 Mood Swings

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Moodiness, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Mood Swings

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Moodiness, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
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 Mood Swings

Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Melancholia Depression Irregular Periods Globus Sensation Pre Menstrual Breast Distension Pre Menstrual Tension

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Moodiness, Mood swings, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian | Gua Lou San
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Moodiness, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Mood Swings

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Moodiness, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Mood Swings

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear liver-Heat
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • Formulas that regulate blood

All Formulas Recommended for Mood Swings Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Qi And Blood Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Qi And Blood Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Qi-Phlegm
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wu Yao Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wei Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Qi Li San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation
Guo Qi Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation
Gua Lou San Liver Qi Stagnation
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Mood Swings Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Phlegm, Qi-Phlegm
Yue Ju Wan Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All Formulas Recommended for Mood Swings Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wu Yao Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Wei Jing Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Qi Li San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation
Guo Qi Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Mood Swings Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for mood swings

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi And Blood Stagnation, Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Liver Qi Stagnation, Phlegm
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Phlegm, Qi-Phlegm
Wu Yao Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Si Mo Tang Qi Stagnation
Qi Ge San Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for mood swings

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Qi And Blood Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for mood swings

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for mood swings

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Qi Li San Qi And Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for mood swings

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang Qi And Blood Stagnation
Guo Qi Yin Qi And Blood Stagnation

Acupoints for Mood Swings

Explore below some acupoints used to address mood swings, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
Toulinqi GB-15

Toulinqi GB-15

Directly above Yangbai GB-14, on the pupil line, 0.5 cun within the hairline, midway between Shenting DU-24 and Touwei ST-8.

Yanglingquan GB-34

Yanglingquan GB-34

In the depression anterior and inferior to the head of the fibula.

Qiuxu GB-40

Qiuxu GB-40

Anterior and inferior to the external malleolus, in the depression on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle that goes to the little toe.

Zhongzhu TB-3

Zhongzhu TB-3

When the hand is placed with the palm facing downward, Zhongzhu TB-3 is on the hand dorsum between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints, at the junction between the heads and shaft of the two metacarpal bones.