Vomiting Clear Liquidaccording to TCM

Symptom family: Nausea and Vomiting

Parent symptom: Vomit

Did you mean? Vomiting Frothy Saliva Vomiting Of Sour Fluids

What is Vomiting Clear Liquid?

Vomiting clear liquid is a symptom where the body expels a transparent, watery fluid from the stomach through the mouth. This condition often points to an underlying issue that could range from a simple stomach irritation to more complex health concerns. Vomiting clear liquid is distinct from other types of vomiting because the expelled substance lacks the presence of food particles or bile, indicating a possible emptiness in the stomach or a specific reaction of the body's digestive system.

How does TCM View Vomiting Clear Liquid?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, vomiting clear liquid is seen through a lens that integrates the physical, emotional, and environmental factors influencing the body's Qi, or vital energy.

TCM does not merely categorize symptoms but rather evaluates them as part of an intricate web of disharmony within the body. Understanding the specific pattern behind the symptom is crucial for TCM practitioners, as it guides the approach to treatment, emphasizing the restoration of balance and the smooth flow of Qi.

Root Causes of Vomiting Clear Liquid in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine identifies several causes for vomiting clear liquid, attributing them to imbalances or disturbances within the body’s energetic system. Predominantly, conditions such as Phlegm-Fluids and Cold invasion are pointed out. Phlegm-Fluids accumulation can manifest through symptoms like vomiting watery fluids and a feeling of heaviness, indicating an excess dampness within.

Similarly, Cold invading the Stomach presents a sudden onset of clear fluid vomiting, often accompanied by a preference for warm drinks and a pronounced aversion to cold. These insights illustrate TCM’s nuanced understanding of such symptoms, advocating for a treatment approach that addresses the specific underlying pattern of disharmony.

Explore below more details about what might cause Vomiting clear liquid according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Stomach
  • Liver
  • Small Intestine
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 Vomiting Clear Liquid

Common Symptoms: Abdominal Distention Chest Distension Feeling Of Heaviness Shortness Of Breath Hypochondrial Pain That Is Worse On Coughing And Breathing Coughing Lack Of Sweating Absence Of Thirst

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids Vomiting of watery fluids, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Edema, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Wu Ling San | Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Vomiting of watery fluids, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Vomiting Clear Liquid

Common Symptoms: Chills Cold Extremities Severe Upper Abdominal Pain Desire For Hot Beverages And Foods Nausea Feeling Worse After Drinking Cold Drinks Hypochondrial Fullness And Distention With Pain Alleviated By Warmth Testicular Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Stomach Vomiting of clear fluids, Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea, Feeling worse after drinking cold drinks... see more Liang Fu Wan | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel Vomiting of clear fluids, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more Nuan Gan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

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 Vomiting Clear Liquid

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold Vomiting of clear fluids, Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Lack of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs, Cold extremities, Generalized fatigue, Pale face... see more Wu Zhu Yu Tang | Xiao Jian Zhong Tang | Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Vomiting Clear Liquid

Common Symptoms: Cold Extremities Desire For Hot Beverages And Foods Severe Upper Abdominal Pain Chills Nausea Feeling Worse After Drinking Cold Drinks Epigastric Pain Relieved With Pressure Or Eating Lack Of Appetite

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Stomach Vomiting of clear fluids, Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea, Feeling worse after drinking cold drinks... see more Liang Fu Wan | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold Vomiting of clear fluids, Epigastric pain relieved with pressure or eating, Lack of appetite, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Absence of thirst, Weak limbs, Cold extremities, Generalized fatigue, Pale face... see more Wu Zhu Yu Tang | Xiao Jian Zhong Tang | Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang | Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Vomiting of watery fluids, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
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 Vomiting Clear Liquid

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel Vomiting of clear fluids, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more Nuan Gan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

Small Intestine

In TCM the Small Intestine plays a critical role in receiving partially digested food from the Stomach and further separating the clear from the turbid, essentially distinguishing nutrients from waste. This process is vital for proper absorption and assimilation of food. The Small Intestine is also associated with clarity of judgment and decision-making. When it malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, poor appetite, or irregular bowel movements. Additionally, a malfunctioning Small Intestine may manifest as mental confusion or difficulty in making decisions, reflecting its role in discernment and clarity in both physical and mental realms. ... see more

Small Intestine Patterns That Can Lead to Vomiting Clear Liquid

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine Vomiting of watery fluids, Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss... see more Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang | Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Vomiting Clear Liquid

For addressing the symptom of vomiting clear liquid, TCM turns to a variety of herbal formulas and specific herbs, each corresponding to the underlying patterns identified. For Phlegm-Fluids, Er Chen Tang and Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang are recommended to dry Dampness and transform Phlegm. In cases of Cold invasion, Liang Fu Wan and Nuan Gan Jian work to promote Qi movement and warm the Interior, respectively.

When Yang Deficiency is at the root, warming the middle with formulas like Wu Zhu Yu Tang is advised. Additionally, for unclassified patterns such as Intestinal Parasites, Hua Chong Wan serves to expel the parasites effectively. These formulas underscore the importance of targeting the specific disharmony within the body to alleviate the symptom of vomiting clear liquid.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address vomiting clear liquid, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
  • Formulas that expel parasites
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that harmonize stomach-Intestines
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi

All Formulas Recommended for Vomiting Clear Liquid Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang Phlegm-Fluids, Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Er Chen Tang Phlegm-Fluids
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Fluids
Wu Ling San Phlegm-Fluids
Xiao Chai Hu Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine

All Formulas Recommended for Vomiting Clear Liquid Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wu Zhu Yu Tang Cold invading the Stomach
Liang Fu Wan Cold invading the Stomach
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San Cold invading the Stomach
Nuan Gan Jian Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel

All Formulas Recommended for Vomiting Clear Liquid Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wu Zhu Yu Tang Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold

All "formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold" recommended for vomiting clear liquid

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wu Zhu Yu Tang Cold invading the Stomach, Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold
Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang Stomach Yang Deficient and Cold

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for vomiting clear liquid

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liang Fu Wan Cold invading the Stomach
Nuan Gan Jian Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for vomiting clear liquid

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Phlegm-Fluids
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Fluids

Acupoints for Vomiting Clear Liquid

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as a vital component of treatment, with specific acupoints offering therapeutic effects for vomiting clear liquid. Qiangjian DU-18, located on the posterior midline, is recognized for its ability to expel Wind and calm the Mind, reflecting the holistic approach of TCM in treating symptoms by harmonizing the body’s energies.

See more details below about Qiangjian DU-18, an acupoint used to address vomiting clear liquid.

  • By Meridian
  • Governing Vessel
Qiangjian DU-18

Qiangjian DU-18

On the posterior midline, 1.5 cun above Naohu DU-17, midway between Fengfu DU-16 and Baihui DU-20.