Common Herbal Formulas for Gynecological Issues
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), menstrual disorders are described as imbalances in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood within the body’s meridian system. These imbalances can be due to Qi Stagnation, Blood Deficiency, Cold accumulation, Heat Excess, or Spleen and Kidney deficiencies. (*denotes Traditional Chinese Medicine Concepts, often capitalized).
Menstrual disorder symptoms can include irregular cycles, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), scanty menstruation (oligomenorrhea), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and premenstrual symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and fatigue.
TCM Patterns of Menstrual Disorders
Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis – Often results in painful, clotted, and irregular periods.
Blood Deficiency – Leads to light periods, dizziness, and fatigue. Often with pale nails, pale face, and dry skin.
Cold in the Uterus – Causes severe cramps and delayed cycles.
Heat Excess – Results in heavy bleeding and short cycles.
Kidney and Spleen Deficiency – Leads to irregular periods, infertility, and exhaustion.
Common Traditional Chinese Medicine Formulas for Menstrual Disorders
TCM utilizes herbal formulas to regulate the menstrual cycle, nourish the blood, remove stagnation, and restore hormonal balance. Some of the most commonly used formulas include:
1. Ba Zhen Wan (Eight Treasures Pill)
A classic formula for Qi and blood deficiency, often used for fatigue, dizziness, and irregular menstruation.
2. Si Wu Wan (Four Substance Pill)
Primarily used for blood deficiency and to nourish the liver and regulate menstruation.
3. Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan (Eight Treasures with Motherwort Pill)
Supports blood circulation and is used for irregular cycles and postpartum recovery.
4. Yi Mu Tiao Jing Wang (Motherwort Menstrual Regulating Pill)
Ideal for promoting blood flow and reducing stagnation, often used in cases of delayed or painful periods.
5. Bu Xue Tiao Jing Wan (Blood Tonifying and Menstrual Regulating Pill)
Helps strengthen blood and Qi, particularly useful for weakness, dizziness, and light periods.
6. Bai Feng Wan (White Phoenix Pill)
A well-known formula for reproductive health, postpartum recovery, and general menstrual regulation.
7. Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan (Black Chicken White Phoenix Pill)
Traditionally used to tonify blood, support fertility, and regulate menstrual cycles.
8. Tong Ren Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan (Tong Ren Black Chicken White Phoenix Pill)
A variation of Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan, often used for chronic fatigue, reproductive health, and postpartum recovery.
9. Gui Pi Wan (Restore the Spleen Pill)
Supports spleen and heart Qi, often used for heavy periods, emotional stress, and insomnia.
10. Dang Gui Jing (Angelica Sinensis Extract)
A powerful blood-nourishing formula often used for irregular menstruation and anemia.
11. Dang Gui Wan (Angelica Sinensis Pill)
Helps regulate menstrual cycles, nourish the blood, and alleviate menstrual pain.
Holistic Approaches to Menstrual Health in TCM
In addition to herbal formulas, TCM practitioners recommend acupuncture, dietary therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to support menstrual health. Key practices include:
Acupuncture – Helps regulate hormonal balance, improve blood circulation, and alleviate menstrual pain.
Dietary Therapy – Warm, blood-nourishing foods such as black sesame seeds, red dates, ginger, and bone broth help strengthen the reproductive system.
Lifestyle Adjustments – Reducing stress through Qi Gong, meditation, and proper sleep is essential for balanced hormones.
Final Thoughts
TCM takes a holistic approach to menstrual health, addressing the root cause of irregularities rather than just symptoms. By using targeted herbal formulas, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications, women can restore balance and achieve harmonious menstrual cycles naturally.
For personalized treatment, consult a licensed TCM practitioner at Ifemi Wellness to determine the best approach for your unique constitution and menstrual concerns.