Ovarian Fibroidsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Gynecological Conditions
Did you mean? Uterine Fibroids
What are Ovarian Fibroids?
Ovarian fibroids, also known as ovarian myomas, are benign tumors that form on the ovaries. Unlike the more commonly discussed uterine fibroids, ovarian fibroids are less prevalent but can still cause significant health concerns. These growths may lead to symptoms such as pelvic pain, bloating, and changes in menstrual patterns, potentially affecting fertility. Their diagnosis necessitates a careful medical evaluation to distinguish them from other ovarian masses and to determine the appropriate treatment strategy.
How does TCM view Ovarian Fibroids?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ovarian fibroids are viewed through the lens of internal disharmonies and imbalances within the body. TCM does not treat ovarian fibroids as isolated phenomena but sees them as manifestations of deeper issues affecting the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang.
Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is critical in TCM, as it informs a tailored treatment approach aimed at restoring balance and addressing the root cause of the fibroids, rather than merely alleviating symptoms.
Root Causes of Ovarian Fibroids in TCM
TCM attributes the formation of ovarian fibroids to underlying imbalances such as Phlegm and Dampness. Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, for example, is a condition that can lead to the development of fibroids, characterized by symptoms like late menstruation, abdominal heaviness, and generalized fatigue.
This pattern indicates an accumulation of pathological factors that obstruct the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, contributing to the growth of fibroids. Addressing these foundational imbalances through targeted treatments is essential for resolving ovarian fibroids in TCM.
Explore below more details about what might cause Ovarian fibroids according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Uterus
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 Ovarian Fibroids
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian myomas, 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 | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
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 Ovarian Fibroids
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian myomas, 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 | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
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 Ovarian Fibroids
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Ovarian myomas, 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 | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Ovarian Fibroids
To treat ovarian fibroids, TCM recommends formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm, as well as expel Dampness directly from the body. Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan and Wei Ling Tang are among the prescribed formulas, containing potent herbs like Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu) and Water plantain (Ze Xie).
These ingredients work synergistically to regulate Qi, drain Dampness, and dissolve Phlegm, addressing the conditions conducive to the formation of fibroids. By applying these principles, TCM aims to restore the body's natural balance, promoting healing from within.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address ovarian fibroids, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause ovarian fibroids, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Ovarian Fibroids Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause ovarian fibroids, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Ovarian Fibroids Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some ovarian fibroids-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass 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 ovarian fibroids
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some ovarian fibroids-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wei Ling Tang, with water plantain as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some ovarian fibroids-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wan Dai Tang, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Ovarian Fibroids
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address ovarian fibroids, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Ovarian fibroids 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 Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for ovarian fibroids, like Wan Dai Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for ovarian fibroids
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Wan Dai Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Wan Dai Tang |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Ovarian fibroids 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 Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for ovarian fibroids, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Ovarian fibroids 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 ovarian fibroids, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Ovarian fibroids can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Water Plantain (Ze Xie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for ovarian fibroids, like Wei Ling Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Ovarian fibroids can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Dong Quai (Dang Gui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for ovarian fibroids, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Ovarian fibroids can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for ovarian fibroids, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.