Parasitesaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Dermatological Conditions & Symptoms, Insect Infestations
Did you mean? Parasitic Infestation
What are Parasites?
Parasites are organisms that live on or in a host organism, deriving sustenance at the host's expense. These can include a broad range of organisms, from viruses and bacteria to worms and other larger organisms.
Parasites can cause a variety of health problems, depending on the type and severity of the infestation. Common symptoms may include gastrointestinal issues, weight loss, and fatigue. Some parasites, like tapeworms or roundworms, are visible to the naked eye, while others are microscopic. Effective treatment is essential to eliminate the parasites and alleviate their symptoms.
How Does TCM View Parasites?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives parasites as a condition arising from imbalances within the body's internal environment. In TCM, the presence of parasites is often attributed to an excess of Dampness and Heat, which creates a hospitable environment for these organisms.
This perspective differs significantly from Western medicine, which focuses on the parasites themselves. TCM aims to restore the body's balance and harmony, thereby creating conditions that are inhospitable to parasites and promoting overall health.
Causes of Parasites According to TCM
In TCM, the infestation of parasites is often linked to specific internal conditions. A common pattern associated with parasitic infections is the accumulation of Dampness and Heat within the body, which provides an ideal environment for parasites to thrive.
Another contributing factor could be a Deficiency in the body’s Qi, which weakens the immune system and makes the body more susceptible to parasitic invasion. TCM treatments focus on correcting these underlying imbalances, thereby strengthening the body's natural defenses and creating an internal environment that is less conducive to parasitic growth.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Parasites
TCM utilizes various herbs to treat parasitic infections, each selected according to the underlying pattern of disharmony. Herbs like Areca Nuts (Bing Lang), Carpesium Fruits (He Shi), and Chinaberry Root Barks (Ku Lian Pi) are commonly used to expel parasites. These herbs target the Large Intestine, Stomach, and Liver, helping to clear the body of the organisms.
Additionally, herbs like Agrimony (Xian He Cao) and Gleditsia Thorns (Zao Jiao Ci) are used to treat symptoms associated with parasitic infections, such as bleeding and Phlegm. These herbs are chosen based on the individual’s specific TCM diagnosis, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment approach.
See more details below about Wu Mei Wan, a herbal formula used to address parasites.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that expel parasites
Formulas that expel parasites
Parasites can be treated by these formulas when it is caused by parasitic infections, requiring anti-parasitic herbs to eliminate the parasites.
One such formula is Wu Mei Wan, with chinese plum as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Parasites
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address parasites, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that expel parasites
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
Herbs that expel parasites
Parasites can be treated by these herbs if it arises from parasitic infections, utilizing their properties to eliminate parasites from the body.
One such herb is Areca Nuts (Bing Lang), which is directly recommended for parasites.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that expel parasites" recommended for parasites
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Areca Nuts (Bing Lang) | Not applicable |
| Carpesium Fruits (He Shi) | Not applicable |
| Chinaberry Root Barks (Ku Lian Pi) | Not applicable |
| Chinese Nutmeg Yews (Fei Zi) | Not applicable |
| Elm Seed Cakes (Wu Yi) | Not applicable |
| Quisqualis Fruits (Shi Jun Zi) | Not applicable |
Herbs that stop bleeding
Parasites 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 Agrimony (Xian He Cao), which is directly recommended for parasites.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Parasites 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 Gleditsia Thorns (Zao Jiao Ci), which is directly recommended for parasites.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Parasites 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 Sichuan Chinaberries (Chuan Lian Zi), which is directly recommended for parasites.
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Parasites can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Chinese Plums (Wu Mei), a key herb in some formulas recommended for parasites, like Wu Mei Wan.