Oedema Of Limbsaccording to TCM

What is Oedema of Limbs?

Oedema of limbs refers to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, causing swelling and puffiness primarily in the arms and legs. This condition can result from various underlying health issues, ranging from circulatory problems to heart failure, kidney disease, or liver dysfunction.

Symptoms can vary in severity, from mild and transient to persistent and indicative of more serious health concerns. Timely recognition and treatment of the underlying cause are crucial for managing and mitigating oedema effectively.

How Does TCM View Oedema of Limbs?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches oedema of limbs as a symptom of imbalance within the body's internal systems. According to TCM, this condition often arises from Deficiencies in Yang energy or the accumulation of Phlegm and Dampness, obstructing the flow of Qi and Body Fluids.

TCM practitioners aim to diagnose the specific pattern of disharmony causing the oedema, focusing treatment on restoring balance, enhancing Qi flow, and promoting the proper movement of Body Fluids.

Root Causes of Oedema Of Limbs in TCM

In TCM, oedema of limbs is primarily attributed to Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency or the presence of Phlegm-Fluids obstructing the body's channels. For instance, Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency can lead to symptoms like cold extremities, facial edema, and abdominal distention, reflecting the body's inability to transform and transport fluids effectively.

Similarly, Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs manifest as superficial edema, muscle pain, and a feeling of heaviness, indicating the accumulation of pathogenic dampness. Identifying these patterns is essential for targeted treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Oedema of limbs according to TCM.

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Oedema Of Limbs

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency	Oedema of limbs, Pale face, Facial edema, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus... see more	Wu Ling San

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 Oedema Of Limbs

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs	Superficial edema in the extremities, Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs, Urinary dysfunction... see more	Da Qing Long Tang

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 Oedema Of Limbs

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency	Oedema of limbs, Pale face, Facial edema, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus... see more	Wu Ling San

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Oedema Of Limbs

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency	Oedema of limbs, Pale face, Facial edema, Abdominal distention, Cold extremities, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea, Frequent urination, Lupus... see more	Wu Ling San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Oedema Of Limbs

To address oedema of limbs, TCM prescribes various herbal formulas tailored to the underlying pattern of disharmony. Wu Ling San, utilizing Water Plantain to drain Dampness, is commonly recommended for Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency. This formula promotes urination and leaches out Dampness, alleviating edema.

For Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs, Da Qing Long Tang, with Ephedra, clears Wind-Cold and mobilizes fluids, targeting the root cause of edema. These treatments exemplify TCM's holistic approach, employing natural herbs to harmonize the body's functions and reduce swelling.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address oedema of limbs, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Wu Ling San

Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause oedema of limbs, such as Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency

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Top Formula for Phlegm:
Da Qing Long Tang

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause oedema of limbs, such as Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs

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Acupoints for Oedema Of Limbs

Acupuncture is another pillar of TCM treatment for oedema of limbs, with specific acupoints like Chize LU-5 on the Lung Channel being pivotal. Stimulating this point can clear Lung Heat, descend Lung Qi, regulate water passages, and benefit the Bladder, showcasing acupuncture's ability to address the systemic imbalances contributing to oedema.

By integrating acupuncture with herbal therapy, TCM offers a comprehensive strategy to treat oedema, emphasizing the restoration of balance and the natural flow of Qi and Body Fluids.

See more details below about Chize LU-5, an acupoint used to address oedema of limbs.

Chize LU-5

On the cubital crease, on the redial aspect of the biceps tendon. It can be easily identified when the elbow is slightly flexed.