Symptom families: Head Conditions and Symptoms, Headaches
Sub-symptom(s): Vertex Headache Frontal Headaches Temporal Headache Tension Headache Vertical Headaches Dull Headache Intractable Headaches Migraine Neuropathic Headache Trauma-Related Headache Cluster Headache Occipital Headache Hypertensive Headaches Vascular Headache
Headaches, the quintessential disruptor of daily life, are a widespread ailment experienced by many. Known medically as cephalalgia, these head pains can present in various forms such as a throbbing sensation, a dull ache, or even a sharp, constant pressure.
They might manifest across the head or be localized to regions like the temples or the base of the skull. The spectrum ranges from general discomfort to debilitating conditions like migraines and cluster headaches, each with its own set of symptoms and triggers.
Within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a headache is considered a symptom of an underlying disharmony, reflective of a specific "pattern" of imbalance. A pattern is a diagnostic framework that encapsulates a patient's constellation of symptoms, guiding TCM practitioners in understanding the root cause of ailments.
Identifying these patterns, which could be due to environmental influences, emotional disturbances, dietary habits, or internal organ imbalances, is vital. It informs a tailored treatment plan involving acupuncture, herbs, and lifestyle adjustments. This pattern differentiation ensures that the treatment addresses the individual's unique presentation of the disorder, rather than providing a one-size-fits-all solution.
TCM attributes the causes of headaches to various patterns of imbalance. Wind patterns, for instance, are often implicated in the sudden onset of headaches, signaling the disruptive flow of Qi.
Heat patterns might indicate an excess of Yang energy, leading to symptoms like inflammation and redness, often seen in the flushed faces of hypertension sufferers. Understanding these patterns, from Wind and Cold to Dampness and Heat, allows practitioners to tailor treatments, ranging from acupuncture to herbal remedies, that target the underlying imbalances rather than just alleviating symptoms.
Explore below more details about what might cause Headaches according to TCM.
In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more
Common Symptoms: Fever Dizziness Sneezing Lack Of Sweating Thirst Aversion To Cold Nasal Discharge Coughing
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Headaches, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
Wind-Phlegm | Headaches, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang |
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more | Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin |
Exterior Wind | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Anemophobia, Nasal discharge, Clear sputum, Itchy throat, Sneezing, Coughing, Muscle pain, Itchy skin... see more | Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San |
Interior Wind | Headaches, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Limb numbness... see more | Bu Gan Tang | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Si Wu Tang |
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency | Headaches, Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more | Bu Gan Tang | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Si Wu Tang |
Wind Cold with Internal Heat | Headaches, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more | Shi Gao Tang |
Wind-Cold | Headaches, Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Wu Ji San |
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San |
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency | Headaches, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Weak voice... see more | Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao San |
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency | Headaches, High fever, Fever without perspiration, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more | Ren Shen Bai Du San |
Wind-Heat | Headaches, Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire | Temporal headaches, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
Greater Yang Attack of Wind | Occipital headaches, Slight aversion to cold, Anemophobia, Low grade fever, Mild sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Occipital headache... see more | Gui Zhi Tang |
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp | Headaches, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Weight loss, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more | Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Thirst Flushed Face Bitter Taste In The Mouth Constipation Fever Dizziness Eye Hyperemia Irritability
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat | Headaches, Fever, Neck gland swelling, 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 | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Lian Po Yin | Yin Chen Hao Tang | Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan |
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more | Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin |
Exterior-Heat | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Excessive sweating, Thirst, Body pain, Stiff neck | Yin Qiao San | Shi Gao Tang |
Heat in Uterus Blood | Headaches, 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 |
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Headaches, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
Wind Cold with Internal Heat | Headaches, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more | Shi Gao Tang |
Wind-Heat | Headaches, Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more | Yin Qiao San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Stomach Heat or Fire | Frontal headache, Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth, Mouth ulcers, Acid reflux, Nausea, Vomiting after eating, Excessive hunger, Bad breath, Feeling of heat, Acne... see more | Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Qing Wei San | Xie Huang San | Fei Er Wan | Hua Ban Tang |
Liver Fire Blazing | Temporal headaches, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan |
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire | Temporal headaches, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen | Dull headache, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more | Lian Po Yin |
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder | Headaches, Hypochondriac pain, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang |
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat | Headaches, Toothache, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps, Breast hardness... see more | Yu Nu Jian |
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
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Sweating Fever Aversion To Cold Chills Congested Nose Coughing Body Pain Shortness Of Breath
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dry-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more | Xing Su San |
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more | Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin |
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer | Headaches, Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Diarrhea, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea... see more | Xiang Ru San |
Wind Cold with Internal Heat | Headaches, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more | Shi Gao Tang |
Wind-Cold | Headaches, Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Wu Ji San |
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San |
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency | Headaches, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Weak voice... see more | Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao San |
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency | Headaches, High fever, Fever without perspiration, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more | Ren Shen Bai Du San |
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Vertical headaches, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
Greater Yang Attack of Cold | Occipital headaches, Occipital headache, Aversion to cold, Low grade fever, Lack of sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath... see more | Ma Huang Tang |
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp | Headaches, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Weight loss, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more | Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang |
Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Chills without sweating, Congested nose, Dry throat, Sputum, Dry cough, Common cold, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Upper respiratory tract infections... see more | Xing Su San |
"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
Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Fever Tight Feeling In Chest And Stomach Thirst Lack Of Appetite Diarrhea Nausea Or Vomiting Sticky Taste In The Mouth
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat | Headaches, Fever, Neck gland swelling, 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 | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Lian Po Yin | Yin Chen Hao Tang | Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan |
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more | Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin |
Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer | Headaches, Chills with warm skin, Lack of sweating, Heavy sensation in the head, Abdominal pain, Vomit, Diarrhea, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Fatigued extremities, Nausea... see more | Xiang Ru San |
Summer Heat with Dampness | Headaches, Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Xiang Ru San | Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin |
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency | Headaches, High fever, Fever without perspiration, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more | Ren Shen Bai Du San |
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen | Dull headache, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more | Lian Po Yin |
Dampness in the Gallbladder | Dull headache, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Feeling of heaviness... see more | San Ren Tang |
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp | Headaches, Swollen and painful joints worsening at night, Joint stiffness, Chills without sweating, Weight loss, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea, Rheumatoid arthritis, Connective tissue disorders, Gouty inflammation... see more | Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang |
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Insomnia Night Sweats Limb Numbness Tingling Of Limbs Blurry Vision Dry Eyes Scanty Menstruation
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian |
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Vertical headaches, Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San |
Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry mouth and throat at night, Nocturnal emission, Pain relieved by pressure and cold, Preference for sipping... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Mu Li San | Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang |
Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more
Common Symptoms: Depression Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Melancholia Mood Swings Irregular Periods Globus Sensation Pre Menstrual Breast Distension
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Gua Lou San |
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more
Common Symptoms: Hiccups Belching Dizziness Coughing Asthma Nausea Vomit Hypochondriac Distention
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Rebellious Liver Qi | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Dizziness... see more | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San |
Rebellious Lung Qi | Headaches, Coughing, Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Loss of consciousness | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Jin Fei Cao San |
Rebellious Qi | Headaches, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing, Asthma | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang |
"Summer-Heat" in TCM is a unique concept that refers to a pattern of disharmony often associated with the hot summer months. Imagine the intense heat of summer stressing your body, like being in a sweltering, humid environment for too long. This can lead to symptoms like feeling overheated, excessive sweating, a feeling of irritation, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. In TCM, this condition is thought to arise from the external environment's heat affecting the body's internal balance. It's similar to how we might feel uncomfortable and out of sorts on a very hot day. ... see more
Common Symptoms: Fever Thirst Feeling Of Heaviness Urinary Dysfunction Aversion To Cold Excessive Sweating Diarrhea Chills
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Thirst, Flushed face, Stifling sensation in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more | Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin |
Summer Heat with Dampness | Headaches, Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Lack of appetite... see more | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Xiang Ru San | Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin |
Summer-Heat | Headaches, Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Feeling of heaviness, Upper abdominal discomfort, Irritability, Thirst... see more | Qing Luo Yin | Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang |
Yang Excess in TCM refers to a state where there is an overabundance of Yang energy, leading to symptoms of heat and hyperactivity in the body. This pattern of disharmony often arises from factors like stress, excessive physical activity, overconsumption of spicy or heating foods, or an internal imbalance that causes Yang to flare up. Symptoms of Yang Excess include a feeling of heat, red face, irritability, restlessness, thirst, constipation, and a rapid, forceful pulse. Treatment in TCM for Yang Excess aims to cool down and subdue the excessive Yang while nurturing Yin energy to restore balance.... see more
Common Symptoms: Tinnitus Dry Throat Blurry Vision Insomnia Dizziness Tremors Facial Tic Severe Dizziness
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Headaches, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
Liver Yang Rising | Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Vertigo Dizziness Stifling Sensation In The Chest Aphasia Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Noisy Breathing Limb Numbness Itchy Ears
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Phlegm | Headaches, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang |
Phlegm-Fluids in the chest and hypochondrium | Headaches, Cough with chest pain, Upper abdominal focal distention, Dry heaving, Shortness of breath, Vertigo, Pericardial effusion, Pneumonia, Ascites due to liver cirrhosis, Nephritis... see more | Shi Zao Tang |
Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Dry Throat Fine Tremor Facial Tic Blurry Vision Limb Numbness Tingling Of Limbs Poor Memory
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency | Headaches, Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more | Bu Gan Tang | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Si Wu Tang |
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen | Headaches, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea, Breast engorgement... see more | Xiao Yao San |
Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more
Common Symptoms: Coughing High Fever Fever Without Perspiration Neck Pain Stiff Neck Painful Extremities Focal Distention Chest Distension
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency | Headaches, High fever, Fever without perspiration, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Focal distention, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing... see more | Ren Shen Bai Du San |
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dry Throat Fever Aversion To Cold Skin Dryness Lack Of Sweating Dry Mouth Coughing Scanty Sputum
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dry-Cold | Headaches, Fever, Aversion to cold, Skin dryness, Lack of sweating, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Coughing, Scanty sputum... see more | Xing Su San |
Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Chills without sweating, Congested nose, Dry throat, Sputum, Dry cough, Common cold, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Upper respiratory tract infections... see more | Xing Su San |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency | Headaches, Low grade fever, Severe chills, Exhaustion, Hypersomnia, Cold extremities, Lumbar pain, Lower back pain, Lower back coldness, General cold feeling, Lack of sweating, Weak voice... see more | Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Zai Zao San |
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
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Irritability Insomnia Tinnitus Dry Throat Blurry Vision Bitter Taste In The Mouth Constipation
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising | Headaches, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang |
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Headaches, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency | Headaches, Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more | Bu Gan Tang | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Si Wu Tang |
Liver Yang Rising | Headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Deafness, Blurry vision, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Insomnia, Irritability, Exhaustion, Anger, Stiff neck, Shoulder stiffness, Stiff upper back... see more | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Da Chai Hu Tang | Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Zhen Xin An Shen Tang |
Liver Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more | Bu Gan Tang | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian |
Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more | Gua Lou San |
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Vertical headaches, Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San |
Rebellious Liver Qi | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Hiccups, Sighing, Nausea or vomiting, Belching, Stomach churning, Irritability, Breast engorgement, Dizziness... see more | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San |
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire | Headaches, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San |
Liver Fire Blazing | Temporal headaches, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan |
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire | Temporal headaches, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Vertical headaches, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder | Headaches, Hypochondriac pain, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang |
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen | Headaches, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea, Breast engorgement... see more | Xiao Yao San |
In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Coughing Congested Nose Shortness Of Breath Asthma Thirst Aversion To Cold Fever
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Headaches, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
Rebellious Lung Qi | Headaches, Coughing, Asthma, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Loss of consciousness | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Jin Fei Cao San |
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Body pain, White and watery sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum... see more | Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San |
Wind-Heat invading the Lungs | Headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Coughing, Sore throat, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Copious thick yellow sputum, Sneezing, Body pain, Thirst, Tonsil swelling... see more | Yin Qiao San |
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Headaches, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcer... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs | Headaches, Chills without sweating, Congested nose, Dry throat, Sputum, Dry cough, Common cold, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Upper respiratory tract infections... see more | Xing Su San |
In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more
Common Symptoms: Hypochondriac Pain Dizziness Red And Irritated Eyes Hearing Loss Ear Swelling Bitter Taste In The Mouth Irritability Painful Urination
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dampness in the Gallbladder | Dull headache, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Feeling of heaviness... see more | San Ren Tang |
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder | Headaches, Hypochondriac pain, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia, Foul-Smelling vaginal discharge... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Chest Distension Chest Pain Anemia Dizziness Dry Mouth Dry Throat Irregular Periods
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat invading the Spleen | Dull headache, Lack of appetite, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Nausea or vomiting, Malodorous diarrhea, Anal burning, Feeling of heat, Scanty and dark urine, Low grade fever, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow sclera, Oily sweat, Itchy rashes, Bitter taste in the mouth, Upper abdominal fullness, Upper abdominal pain... see more | Lian Po Yin |
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen | Headaches, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea, Breast engorgement... see more | Xiao Yao San |
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
Common Symptoms: Dry Mouth Restlessness Constipation Bleeding Gums Swollen Gums Toothache Stomatitis Periodontitis
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Stomach Heat or Fire | Frontal headache, Upper abdominal burning pain, Excessive thirst, Craving for cold beverages, Restlessness, Dry stools, Dry mouth, Mouth ulcers, Acid reflux, Nausea, Vomiting after eating, Excessive hunger, Bad breath, Feeling of heat, Acne... see more | Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Qing Wei San | Xie Huang San | Fei Er Wan | Hua Ban Tang |
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat | Headaches, Toothache, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps, Breast hardness... see more | Yu Nu Jian |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Heat in Uterus Blood | Headaches, 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 |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Headaches, Vertical headaches, Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Yi Guan Jian | Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Zuo Gui Yin | Zuo Gui Wan | Qing Gu San |
The treatment of headaches in TCM involves a nuanced selection of herbal formulas. For headaches arising from Liver Yang Rising, Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin may be prescribed to soothe the Liver, quell Wind, and clear Heat.
Conversely, Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang might be chosen for Wind-Phlegm patterns, characterized by dizziness and a feeling of oppression in the chest. These formulas are carefully chosen based on the presenting pattern, ensuring that treatment is as personalized as it is holistic.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address headaches, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause headaches, such as Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising or Interior Wind
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency... see more |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind |
Ma Huang Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind |
Bu Gan Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire |
Yin Qiao San | Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind |
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire... see more |
Si Wu Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Shi Gao Tang | Wind Cold with Internal Heat |
Jin Fei Cao San | Wind-Cold |
Gui Zhi Tang | Greater Yang Attack of Wind |
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wind-Phlegm |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San | Exterior Wind |
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang | Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
Wu Ji San | Wind-Cold |
Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Zhi Sou San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Zai Zao San | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Ren Shen Bai Du San | Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency |
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Wind-Heat |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Zi Xue Dan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire |
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause headaches, such as Liver Fire insulting the Lungs or Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs, Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder, Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire, Liver Fire Blazing... see more |
Yin Qiao San | Exterior-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Lian Po Yin | Damp-Heat, Damp-Heat invading the Spleen |
Shi Gao Tang | Exterior-Heat, Wind Cold with Internal Heat |
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire |
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Damp-Heat |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Heat |
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat |
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Damp-Heat |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
Huai Jiao Wan | Heat in Uterus Blood |
Ke Xie Fang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs |
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire |
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Wind-Heat |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
Yu Nu Jian | Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat |
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Qing Wei San | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Xie Huang San | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Fei Er Wan | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Hua Ban Tang | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Liver Fire Blazing |
Xie Qing Wan | Liver Fire Blazing |
Zi Xue Dan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire |
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause headaches, such as Wind-Cold or Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ma Huang Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, Greater Yang Attack of Cold |
Xing Su San | Dry-Cold, Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs |
Xiang Ru San | Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer |
Shi Gao Tang | Wind Cold with Internal Heat |
Jin Fei Cao San | Wind-Cold |
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang | Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
Wu Ji San | Wind-Cold |
Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Zhi Sou San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Zai Zao San | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Ren Shen Bai Du San | Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency |
Nuan Gan Jian | Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel |
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause headaches, such as Damp-Heat or Summer Heat with Dampness
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Damp-Heat, Summer Heat with Dampness |
Lian Po Yin | Damp-Heat, Damp-Heat invading the Spleen |
Xiang Ru San | Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer, Summer Heat with Dampness |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat |
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Damp-Heat |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang | Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp |
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Ren Shen Bai Du San | Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency |
San Ren Tang | Dampness in the Gallbladder |
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause headaches, such as Liver Yin Deficiency or Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Yin Deficiency |
Yi Guan Jian | Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Yin Deficiency |
Bu Gan Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency |
Suan Zao Ren Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency |
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Zuo Gui Yin | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Qing Gu San | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Mu Li San | Yin Deficiency |
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang | Yin Deficiency |
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause headaches, such as Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire |
Gua Lou San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San | Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire |
Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation |
Suitable for Qi Rebellion patterns that may cause headaches, such as Rebellious Liver Qi or Rebellious Qi
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Si Ni San | Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Rebellious Lung Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Jin Fei Cao San | Rebellious Lung Qi |
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Suitable for Summer Heat patterns that may cause headaches, such as Summer Heat with Dampness
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Xiang Ru San | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin | Summer Heat with Dampness |
Qing Luo Yin | Summer-Heat |
Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang | Summer-Heat |
Suitable for Yang Excess patterns that may cause headaches, such as Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising or Liver Yang Rising
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yang Rising |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yang Rising |
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yang Rising |
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
Da Chai Hu Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Zhu Mu Wan | Liver Yang Rising |
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause headaches, such as Wind-Phlegm
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wind-Phlegm |
Shi Zao Tang | Phlegm-Fluids in the chest and hypochondrium |
Suitable for Blood Deficiency patterns that may cause headaches, such as Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Bu Gan Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
Si Wu Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
Xiao Yao San | Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen |
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause headaches, such as Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ren Shen Bai Du San | Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency |
Xiao Chai Hu Tang | Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation |
Suitable for Dryness patterns that may cause headaches, such as Dry-Cold or Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs
Learn moreSuitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause headaches, such as Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Zai Zao San | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Exterior-Full or Wind-Cold.
One such formula is Ma Huang Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ma Huang Tang | Exterior-Full, Wind-Cold, Wind-Cold invading the Lungs, Greater Yang Attack of Cold... see more |
Gui Zhi Tang | Exterior-Empty, Greater Yang Attack of Wind |
Jin Fei Cao San | Rebellious Lung Qi, Wind-Cold |
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Wind-Cold |
Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Wind-Cold |
Shi Shen Tang | Wind-Cold |
Ge Gen Tang | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising or Interior Wind.
One such formula is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yang Rising, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Yin Deficiency... see more |
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency... see more |
Yi Guan Jian | Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Zuo Gui Wan | Yin Deficiency, Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Gui Shao Di Huang Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Zuo Gui Yin | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Fire insulting the Lungs or Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs, Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder, Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire, Liver Fire Blazing... see more |
Yu Nu Jian | Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat |
Qing Wei San | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Xie Huang San | Stomach Heat or Fire |
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Liver Fire Blazing |
Xie Qing Wan | Liver Fire Blazing |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising or Interior Wind.
One such formula is Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, with gastrodia rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Interior Wind, Liver Yang Rising... see more |
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Yang Rising, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire... see more |
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising... see more |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising or Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire.
One such formula is Feng Yin Tang, with dragon bones as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Feng Yin Tang | Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire... see more |
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San | Exterior Wind |
Xin Yi San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
Xiao Feng San | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Exterior-Heat or Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Yin Qiao San, with honeysuckle flowers as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Yin Qiao San | Exterior-Heat, Wind-Heat, Wind-Heat invading the Lungs |
Jing Fang Bai Du San | Wind-Cold |
Ren Shen Bai Du San | Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency |
Bing Peng San | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Damp-Heat or Damp-Heat invading the Spleen.
One such formula is Lian Po Yin, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Lian Po Yin | Damp-Heat, Damp-Heat invading the Spleen |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat |
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan | Damp-Heat |
San Ren Tang | Dampness in the Gallbladder |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Rebellious Liver Qi or Rebellious Qi.
One such formula is Chai Hu Shu Gan San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Nuan Gan Jian | Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel |
Yue Ju Wan | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Interior Wind or Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency.
One such formula is Bu Gan Tang, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Bu Gan Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yin Deficiency... see more |
Si Wu Tang | Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer or Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Xiang Ru San, with vietnamese balm as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Xiang Ru San | Exterior Cold with Interior Dampness in Summer, Summer Heat with Dampness |
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin | Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Rebellious Liver Qi or Rebellious Qi.
One such formula is Si Ni San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Si Ni San | Rebellious Liver Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Xiao Yao San | Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Zhen Xin An Shen Tang
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Zhen Xin An Shen Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Suan Zao Ren Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency |
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Rebellious Lung Qi or Rebellious Qi.
One such formula is Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang, with perilla seeds as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Rebellious Lung Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Rebellious Qi |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Wind-Cold invading with Blood and Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Cong Bai Qi Wei Yin, with scallions as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Cong Bai Qi Wei Yin | Wind-Cold invading with Blood and Yin Deficiency |
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
Zai Zao San | Wind-Cold invading with Yang Deficiency |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Wind-Phlegm.
One such formula is Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wind-Phlegm |
Zhi Sou San | Wind-Cold invading the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Heat in Uterus Blood.
One such formula is Huai Jiao Wan, with pagoda tree pods as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Huai Jiao Wan | Heat in Uterus Blood |
Ke Xie Fang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Da Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Da Chai Hu Tang | Liver Yang Rising |
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Gua Lou San, with snake gourd as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Gua Lou San | Liver Qi Stagnation |
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Cong Chi Tang, with scallions as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Cong Chi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Damp-Heat or Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San, with korean mint as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Dry-Cold or Exterior Dry Cold invading the Lungs.
One such formula is Xing Su San, with apricot seed as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Exterior-Heat or Wind Cold with Internal Heat.
One such formula is Shi Gao Tang, with gypsum as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Wind-Heat.
One such formula is Sang Ju Yin, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Sang Ju Yin | Wind-Heat |
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Wind-Heat |
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Wind-Heat |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp.
One such formula is Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang, with cinnamon twigs as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang | Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp |
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Yang Rising.
One such formula is Zhen Zhu Mu Wan, with mother of pearl as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids in the chest and hypochondrium.
One such formula is Shi Zao Tang, with kansui root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire.
One such formula is Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San, with mudan peony bark as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Summer Heat with Dampness.
One such formula is Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin, with talc as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Summer-Heat.
One such formula is Qing Luo Yin, with honeysuckle flowers as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Summer-Heat.
One such formula is Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang, with american ginseng as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Mu Li San, with oyster shells as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang, with ningpo figwort root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Stomach Heat or Fire.
One such formula is Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang, with rhubarb as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Stomach Heat or Fire.
One such formula is Fei Er Wan, with quisqualis fruit as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Stomach Heat or Fire.
One such formula is Hua Ban Tang, with gypsum as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire.
One such formula is Zi Xue Dan, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some headaches-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Qing Gu San, with stellaria root as a key herb.
Headaches can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang | Not applicable |
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Not applicable |
Dang Gui Shao Yao San | Not applicable |
Headaches can be treated by these formulas when it is due to cold in the middle jiao (digestive region), necessitating warming and cold-dispelling actions.
One such formula is Xiao Jian Zhong Tang, with maltose as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang | Not applicable |
Wu Zhu Yu Tang | Not applicable |
Headaches can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and transform Phlegm if it is linked to heat leading to phlegm accumulation.
One such formula is Gun Tan Wan, with chlorite schist as a key herb.
Headaches can be treated by these formulas if it is due to cold-dampness obstructing the body's functions, requiring warming and damp-transforming actions.
One such formula is Fu Zi Tang, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Headaches can be treated by these formulas when it is caused by an accumulation of dampness in the body, requiring diuretic actions to promote fluid balance.
One such formula is Wu Ling San, with water plantain as a key herb.
Headaches can be treated by these formulas when it is caused by an internal cold condition, needing treatments that warm the body's interior.
One such formula is Dang Gui Si Ni Tang, with dong quai as a key herb.
Acupuncture is another cornerstone of TCM headache management. Points along the Gall Bladder channel, like Benshen GB-13, are stimulated to calm the mind and subdue rising Liver Yang. The Bladder channel acupoints, such as Chengguang BL-6, can expel Wind-Heat and benefit the sensory orifices, offering relief from headaches.
Acupoints are selected based on their traditional indications and the presenting pattern, forming part of a comprehensive treatment plan that might also include lifestyle and dietary modifications.
Explore below some acupoints used to address headaches, organized by meridian.
Lateral to the outer canthus, in the depression on the lateral side of the orbit.
In front of the ear, on the upper border of the zygomatic arch, in the depression directly above Xiaguan ST-7.
Within the hairline of the temporal region, midway of the upper half of the distance between Touwei ST-8 and Qubin GB-7.
Within the hairline of the temporal region, midway of the line connecting Touwei ST-8 and Qubin GB-7.
Within the hairline inferior to the corner of the temporal region, midway of the lower half of the distance between Touwei ST-8 and Qubing GB-7.
Within the hairline anterior and superior to the auricle, about 1 finger-breadth (0.5 cun) anterior to Jiaosun TB-20 which is on the apex of the ear.
Superior to the apex of the ear, 1.5 cun within the hairline.
Posterior and superior to the auricle, about 0.5 cun posterior to Shuaigu GB-8.
Posterior and superior to the mastoid process, at the junction of the upper third and the two lower thirds of the curved line connecting Tianchong GB-9 and Wangu GB-12.
Posterior and superior to the mastoid process, on the line connecting Tianchong GB-9, Fubai GB-10 and Wangu GB-12.
In the depression posterior and inferior to the mastoid process.
0.5 cun within the hairline of the forehead, at the junction of the medial two-third and lateral third of the distance from Shenting DU-24 to Touwei ST-8.
On the forehead, 1 cun above the midpoint of the eyebrow, approximately at the junction of the upper two-thirds and lower third of the vertical line draw from the anterior hairline to the eyebrow.
Directly above Yangbai GB-14, on the pupil line, 0.5 cun within the hairline, midway between Shenting DU-24 and Touwei ST-8.
1 cun posterior to the Toulingqi GB-15 or 1.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline, on the pupil line which is 2.25 cun lateral to the midline.
1 cun posterior to Muchuang GB-16 or 2.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline.
1.5 cun posterior to Zhengying GB-17 or 4 cun posterior to the anterior hairline. Or 1 cun anterior and 2.25 cun lateral to Baihui DU-20, which is at the vertex of the head.
Directly above Fengchi GB-20, level with Naohu DU-17, on the lateral side of the external occipital protuberance.
In the posterior aspect of the neck, below the occipital bone, in the depression between the upper portion of sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle.
5 cun directly above the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.
4 cun above and slightly anterior to the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.
3 cun above the tip of the external malleolus, in the depression on the anterior border of the fibula.
Anterior and inferior to the external malleolus, in the depression on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle that goes to the little toe.
In the depression distal to the junction of the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the foot.
Between the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the medial side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the little toe.
Between the 4th and 5th toes, proximal to the margin of the interdigital web.
On the lateral side of the 4th toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.
0.1 cun superior and medial to the inner canthus.
On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.
Vertically above the medial extremity of the eyebrow and medial canthus of the eye, 0.5 cun within the anterior hairline, between Shenting DU-24 and Quchai BL-4.
0.5 cun superior to the anterior hairline and 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, at the junction of the medial third and lateral two-thirds of the distance from anterior midline to Touwei ST-8.
1 cun within the anterior hairline and 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline. It is also 0.5 cun posterior to Quchai BL-4.
1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2.5 cun within the anterior hairline. On the other hand, this point is at the medial third and lateral two-thirds of the distance from anterior midline to the line vertically from Touwei ST-8. Chengguang BL-6 is also 1.5 cun posterior to Wuchu BL-5.
1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 4 cun within the anterior hairline.
First identify Naohu DU-17 which is on the superior border of the external occipital protuberance. Yuzhen BL-9 is 1.3 cun lateral to Naohu DU-17.
1.3 cun lateral to Yamen DU-15 on the posterior midline, 0.5 cun above the posterior hairline, on the lateral side of trapezius muscle.
On the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 1st thoracic vertebra (T1), 1.5 cun (about 2 finger-breadths) lateral to the posterior midline.
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd thoracic vertebra (T2).
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra.
At the midpoint of the popliteal crease, between the tendons of biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscle.
5 cun inferior to Weizhong BL-40 which is the midpoint of the popliteal crease. In the center of the belly of gastrocnemius muscle, midway between Heyang BL-55 and Chengshan BL-57.
On the posterior border of fibula, about 1 cun inferior and lateral to Chengshan BL-57, 7 cun directly above Kunlun BL-60.
In the depression between the tip of the lateral malleolus and the Achilles tendon.
In the depression directly below the lateral malleolus tip.
On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, below the tuberosity of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.
On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.
On the lateral side of the little toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.
When the hand is placed with the palm facing downward, Zhongzhu TB-3 is on the hand dorsum between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints, at the junction between the heads and shaft of the two metacarpal bones.
2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.
1 cun above Tianjing TB-10 or 2 cun superior to the olecranon.
On the line joining the olecranon and Jianliao TB-14, midway between Qinglengyuan TB-11 and Naohui TB-13, 5 cun proximal to the olecranon. It is just on the lower end of bulge of the lateral head of triceps brachii when the forearm is in pronation.
Posterior and inferior to the mastoid process, on the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with Tianrong SI-17 and Tianzhu BL-10.
In the center of the mastoid process, at the junction of the middle and lower third of the curve formed by Yifeng TB-17 and Jiaosun TB-20 posterior to the helix.
Posterior to the ear, at the junction of the upper and middle third of the curve formed by Yifeng ST-17 and Jiaosun ST-20 behind the helix.
Anterior and superior to Ermen TB-21, level with the root of the auricle, on the posterior border of the hairline of the temple where the superficial temporal artery passes.
In the depression at the lateral end of the eyebrow.
On the midline at the base of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).
Directly below the external occipital protuberance, in the depression between the origins of the trapezius muscle.
On the posterior midline, 1.5 cun above Naohu DU-17, midway between Fengfu DU-16 and Baihui DU-20.
On the head midline, 1.5 cun above Qiangjian DU-18 or 1.5 cun posterior to Baihui DU-20.
At the vertex, at the junction of a line connecting the apex of the ears and the midline, in the depression 7 cun above the posterior hairline and 5 cun behind the anterior hairline.
On the midline, 1.5 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20 or 3.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline.
On the head midline, 3 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20, 2 cun posterior to the front hairline.
On the ulnar side of the little finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.
Proximal to the head of the 5th metacarpal bone on the ulnar side, in the depression at the junction of the red and white skin.
On the ulnar side of the palm, in the depression between the base of the 5th metacarpal bone and the carpal bone.
5 cun proximal to the wrist, on the line joining Yanggu SI-5 and Xiaohai SI-8.
In the lateral aspect of the neck, on the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle, lever with the Adam's apple.
When the patient looks straight forward, Yuyao EX-HN-4 is located directly above the pupil, in the midline of the eyebrow.
At the temple, in the tender depression approximately 1 cun posterior to the midpoint between the lateral extremity of the eyebrow and the outer canthus of the eye.
On the apex of the ear.
Posterior to the ear and to the mastoid process, between Yifeng TB-17 and Fengchi GB-20.
At the temporal corner of the forehead, on the border of the temporalis muscle. 0.5 cun within the anterior hairline at the corner of the forehead and 4.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Level with the tip of Adam's apple, 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.
At the junction of the dorsum of the foot and leg, between the tendons of extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus muscle. Approximately at the level of the tip of the external malleolus.
Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.
When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 5 cun above Yangxi LI-5 at the wrist crease, 1 cun distal to the midpoint of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.
When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 4 cun distal to Quchi LI-11 of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.
When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 3 cun distal to Quchi LI-11 of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.
3 cun above the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, in the depression medial to the biceps brachii muscle.
On the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, 1 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist when the palm faces upward.
Between the first and second toe, on the dorsum of the foot, 0.5 cun proximal to the interdigital fold.
On the dorsum of the foot, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones, in the depression proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints and the proximal angle between the two bones.
This is a group of 8 points, all located on the foot dorsum, slightly proximal to the margins of the interdigital webs. Xingjian LIV-2, Neiting ST-44 and Xiabai GB-43 are part of the Bafeng EX-LE-10 points. Xingjian LIV-2 is between the 1st and 2nd toes, on the dorsum of the foot, 0.5 cun proximal to the margin of the web. Neiting ST-44 is between the 2nd and 3rd toes, while Xiaxi GB-43 is between the 4th and 5th toes.
This is a group of 8 points in both hand, 4 points per each hand. Slightly proximal to the margins of the webs between the fingers, on the border of the red and white skin.
Above the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the wrist crease (wrist joint space) in a V-shaped depression.
In the depression between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones on the sole when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the junction of the anterior and middle third of the sole.
Proximal and inferior to the head of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.