Frequent diarrhea can often stem from imbalances in the body’s energy or disordered metabolism. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides a holistic framework, categorizing diarrhea into various types based on underlying causes and offering targeted treatments to restore the body’s natural harmony.
Types of Diarrhea
A central concept in TCM for understanding digestive issues like diarrhea is “dampness,” which refers to an accumulation of unprocessed fats and waste that disrupts your body’s water metabolism, potentially leading to indigestion and loose, unformed stools.
The dampness condition is primarily split into cold-damp and damp-heat types.
Diarrhea of Cold-Damp Type
Cold-damp type diarrhea is triggered by excessive cold and dampness in the body, often occurring after eating raw or cold foods. Symptoms include abdominal pain, watery stools, loss of appetite, and feeling cold, sometimes accompanied by fever.
Jingduan Yang, CEO of the Northern Medical Center in New York, is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in integrative medicine and TCM. He recommends remedies such as “Huoxiang Zhengqi San,” also known as Agastache Qi-Correcting Powder, a classic TCM formula that dispels dampness, and Po Chai Pills, which combine several Chinese herbs for treating cold-damp diarrhea.
Studies show that Huoxiang Zhengqi San can alleviate diarrhea caused by cold-dampness by regulating gut microbiota and digestive enzyme activity. Po Chai Pills, which contain patchouli and coix seeds, have also been found effective in easing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Diarrhea of the Damp-Heat Type
Conversely, damp-heat diarrhea arises from a combination of dampness and heat in the body, often linked to inflammation. Symptoms include burning anal pain and soft, sticky stools with a foul odor.
Yang recommends “Huangliansu” (berberine) or “Ge Gen Qin Lian Tang” (Decoction of Pueraria, Scutellaria, and Coptis) to clear heat, resolve dampness, and regulate the intestines.
Studies have shown that taking berberine alone, or in combination with probiotics and vitamin B, may speed recovery from diarrhea.
Ge Gen Qin Lian Tang, a TCM formula with a history of more than 1,800 years, may improve inflammatory bowel diseases and also benefit metabolic conditions such as fatty liver and diabetes.
How to Tell if Your Body Has Excessive Dampness
In an interview with The Epoch Times, TCM physician Kuo-Pin Wu, director of Taiwan XinYiTang TCM Clinic, suggested that self-assessing for excessive dampness involves observing several key aspects of the body:
- Skin: Sweat blisters may appear between the fingers, on the palms, toes, or soles.
- Limbs: Swelling, especially in the feet, may occur in the evening, making shoes or socks feel tight.
- Abdomen and lower limbs: Dampness may sink downward, causing the lower abdomen or legs to feel heavy, as if soaked in water.
- Digestion: Heavy dampness may impair gastrointestinal function, leading to reduced appetite and a feeling of stomach fullness.
- Stool: Stools may be sticky and difficult to fully evacuate in one go.
- Reproductive system: Women may experience increased vaginal discharge and be prone to vaginal infections. Men may experience itching in the groin, burning or painful urination, or signs of urethral inflammation.
- Mental state: Persistent fatigue may occur despite minimal physical exertion, particularly in the morning or afternoon.
TCM Perspectives on Diarrhea Beyond Dampness
Beyond dampness, other internal imbalances can cause diarrhea.
One such condition is spleen deficiency type, where TCM considers the digestive system part of the spleen’s energy system. Symptoms typically include loose stools, frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain, and fatigue; severe cases might even contribute to ulcerative colitis.
For this condition, “Shen Ling Bai Zhu San,” a powder formula made from ginseng, poria, and atractylodes, is recommended to strengthen the spleen and boost “qi” or energy. Studies show this TCM formula, either alone or in combination with conventional medications, has significant therapeutic effects on ulcerative colitis with fewer adverse reactions.
Diarrhea of Liver-Spleen Imbalance Type
Another significant type is liver-spleen imbalance, which often correlates with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Western medicine, according to Japanese TCM practitioner Ritsugaku Ken.
The TCM concept of the liver is tied to the autonomic nervous system, where stress, overthinking, or tension can lead to liver stagnation—blocked energy flow—that impairs liver function. This disruption can affect the spleen and stomach, leading to gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. “Chai Shao Liu Jun Zi Tang” is a common TCM remedy for this imbalance.
A 2021 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with 2,500 participants found that Chinese herbal medicine alleviated IBS symptoms 76 percent more effectively than a placebo, underscoring its therapeutic potential.
Ken emphasized that alongside TCM treatments, IBS patients benefit from adopting healthier lifestyles and dietary habits. Stress-relieving practices such as meditation or yoga, combined with a stable mindset, can also ease symptoms.
TCM Approaches for Diarrhea
In addition to herbal medicines, other holistic approaches play a vital role in managing diarrhea and supporting digestive wellness.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Relieving Gut Stress
Acupuncture is a key technique for managing diarrhea. Commonly used points include “Zusanli,” “Shangjuxu,” and “Tianshu,” are frequently used. These are specialized sites along the body’s energy pathways, known as meridians, which connect to different body regions and support holistic healing.
A clinical trial involving 90 patients with IBS divided participants into three groups: one receiving acupuncture at specific points, another at nonspecific points, and a third at nonacupuncture points. Results showed a 46.7 percent symptom relief rate in both the specific and nonspecific acupuncture groups, compared to 26.7 percent in the nonacupuncture group, suggesting that targeted acupuncture holds clinical value for treating IBS. However, larger trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Moxibustion, which applies heat to acupuncture points using burning dried mugwort, may be another option. Animal studies suggest it regulates brain-gut interactions, reduces visceral sensitivity, eases intestinal inflammation, and balances immune function, potentially providing pain relief and anti-diarrheal benefits.
Ken stressed that diarrhea varies in cause and treatment, urging patients to seek professional medical guidance for tailored care.
Dietary Therapy
A light diet is recommended, focusing on low-sugar, low-fat, warm, and easily digestible foods, Ken said.
Chinese Yam and Lotus Seed Porridge
Rice porridge benefits patients with diarrhea as it nourishes the stomach and strengthens the spleen. Chinese yam porridge is especially helpful as it supports digestion, strengthens the spleen, and eases diarrhea.
Ingredients:
30 grams dried Chinese yam
30 grams lotus seeds
30 grams glutinous rice
5 to 6 cups water
Instructions:
- Rinse the Chinese yam, lotus seeds, and glutinous rice thoroughly; soak overnight if possible.
- Break the Chinese yam into small pieces, then combine with lotus seeds and rice in a pot.
- Add water, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the yam and lotus seeds are soft and fully cooked.
Enjoy one to two times daily on an empty stomach.
During episodes of diarrhea or vomiting, increase fluid intake to replace lost water and prevent dehydration.
Food Hygiene When Dining Out
Yang warned that an improper diet while traveling can quickly cause acute diarrhea. To stay safe, ensure food is thoroughly cooked—especially meat, eggs, and seafood—avoid drinking untreated water, and wash hands frequently.
Taking probiotics and vitamin C may help support the immune system. Maintaining a warm abdomen, following a regular sleep schedule, and avoiding excessive fatigue are also important.
The herbs mentioned above may sound unfamiliar, but many are available at health food stores or Asian grocery stores. Since each person’s health needs are unique, it is best to consult a qualified health care professional for a personalized treatment plan.