Thick Menstrual Bloodaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Excessive or Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Did you mean? Excessive Menstruation
What is Thick Menstrual Blood?
Thick menstrual blood refers to a condition where the blood discharged during menstruation is unusually dense or heavy in consistency. This can be accompanied by larger-than-normal blood clots. While some variation in menstrual blood consistency is normal, notably thick blood can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.
Women experiencing this symptom may also notice changes in their menstrual cycle, such as irregularities in flow or duration. Understanding the nature of menstrual blood is important, as it can provide insights into a woman's overall reproductive health.
How Does TCM View Thick Menstrual Blood?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on thick menstrual blood, viewing it as a symptom of underlying imbalances within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which tends to focus on the physical characteristics of menstrual blood, TCM considers thick menstrual blood as an indicator of disharmony in the body's energy flow, specifically involving Qi (vital energy), Blood, and the balance of Yin and Yang.
TCM stresses the importance of identifying the specific pattern of disharmony causing the symptom, as effective treatment depends on addressing these underlying causes.
Root Causes of Thick Menstrual Blood in TCM
In TCM, thick menstrual blood is often attributed to patterns such as Heat in the Blood or Damp-Heat. Heat in the Blood can cause the blood to become thick and sticky, leading to symptoms like a feeling of heat, thirst, and red skin eruptions.
Damp-Heat, another pattern, involves an excess of heat and moisture in the body, which can also manifest as thick menstrual blood, along with symptoms like fever, headaches, and a feeling of heaviness. These patterns illustrate the holistic approach of TCM, where physical symptoms are seen as reflections of deeper imbalances in the body's energy system.
Explore below more details about what might cause Thick menstrual blood according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Heat
- Dampness
- Phlegm
- Uterus
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 Thick Menstrual Blood
Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heat Thirst Excessive Menstruation Restlessness Hematuria Fever Anxiety Dry Mouth
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat in the Blood | Thick menstrual blood, Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more | Qing Jing San | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liang Di Tang | Di Gu Pi Yin |
| Heat in Uterus Blood | Thick menstrual blood, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more | Huai Jiao Wan |
| Damp-Heat | Thick menstrual blood, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more | Er Miao San | Xiao Yao San | Qing Re Tiao Xue 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 Thick Menstrual Blood
Common Symptoms: Late Menstruation Lower Abdominal Pain Stifling Sensation In The Chest Generalized Fatigue Diarrhea Feeling Of Heaviness Leukorrhea Dizziness
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Thick menstrual blood, 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 | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
| Damp-Heat | Thick menstrual blood, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more | Er Miao San | Xiao Yao San | Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang |
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 Thick Menstrual Blood
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Thick menstrual blood, 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 | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi 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 Thick Menstrual Blood
Common Symptoms: Sticky Menstrual Blood Excessive Menstruation Sudden Period Before Schedule Dark Menstrual Blood Thirst Flushed Face Anger Anxiety
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Heat in Uterus Blood | Thick menstrual blood, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more | Huai Jiao Wan |
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Thick menstrual blood, 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 | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Thick Menstrual Blood
To address thick menstrual blood, TCM practitioners may recommend specific formulas and herbs based on the identified pattern of disharmony. For Heat in the Blood, a formula like Qing Jing San, containing Goji Tree Root Bark (Di Gu Pi), can be effective in cooling the Blood.
In cases of Damp-Heat, Er Miao San, with ingredients like Phellodendron bark (Huang Bo), is used to expel dampness and clear heat. These treatments are tailored to the individual's unique pattern of disharmony, aiming to restore the natural balance within the body and alleviate the symptoms associated with thick menstrual blood. The selection of herbs and formulas in TCM is highly individualized, reflecting each patient's specific needs and conditions.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address thick menstrual blood, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Heat
- Dampness
- Phlegm
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that clear blood-Heat
- Formulas that clear heat from the organs
- Formulas that stop bleeding
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that dispel phlegm
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
- Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
Top Formula for Heat:
Qing Jing San
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause thick menstrual blood, such as Heat in the Blood
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Thick Menstrual Blood Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Qing Jing San | Heat in the Blood |
| Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Liang Di Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Di Gu Pi Yin | Heat in the Blood |
| Huai Jiao Wan | Heat in Uterus Blood |
| Er Miao San | Damp-Heat |
| Xiao Yao San | Damp-Heat |
| Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang | Damp-Heat |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause thick menstrual blood, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Thick Menstrual Blood Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Er Miao San | Damp-Heat |
| Xiao Yao San | Damp-Heat |
| Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang | Damp-Heat |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause thick menstrual blood, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Thick Menstrual Blood Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Liang Di Tang, with unprepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for thick menstrual blood
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Liang Di Tang | Heat in the Blood |
| Di Gu Pi Yin | Heat in the Blood |
Formulas that clear Blood-Heat
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Qing Jing San, with goji tree root-bark as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Heat in the Blood.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
Formulas that stop bleeding
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Heat in Uterus Blood.
One such formula is Huai Jiao Wan, with pagoda tree pods as a key herb.
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang, with dong quai as a key herb.
Formulas that dispel Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.
One such formula is Er Miao San, with phellodendron bark as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.
One such formula is Xiao Yao San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness
These formulas are suitable for some thick menstrual blood-causing patterns like Damp-Heat.
One such formula is Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang, with mudan peony bark as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Thick Menstrual Blood
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address thick menstrual blood, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Herbs that cool the Blood
Thick menstrual blood can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Goji Tree Root Bark (Di Gu Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for thick menstrual blood, like Qing Jing San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for thick menstrual blood
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Goji Tree Root Bark (Di Gu Pi) | Qing Jing San | Di Gu Pi Yin |
| Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang) | Liang Di Tang | Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang |
| Mudan Peony Bark (Mu Dan Pi) | Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang |
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Thick menstrual blood can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for thick menstrual blood, like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for thick menstrual blood
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Chinese Gentian (Long Dan Cao) | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang |
| Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bo) | Er Miao San |
Herbs that stop bleeding
Thick menstrual blood 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 Pagoda Tree Pods (Huai jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for thick menstrual blood, like Huai Jiao Wan.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Thick menstrual blood 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 thick menstrual blood, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Thick menstrual blood 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 thick menstrual blood, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Thick menstrual blood 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 Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for thick menstrual blood, like Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang.
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Thick menstrual blood 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 thick menstrual blood, like Xiao Yao San.