3. Genitourinary
symptoms/disorders
• In this chapter, I have included the most common disorders/
symptoms that can occur for both genders affecting the bladder and
external genitalia (particularly common sexually transmitted
diseases).
• A lot of these disorders can be treated with conventional medicine,
but TCM herbs ~ are very powerful as well. It’s important to also
look at preventative measures and root cause(s).
For example, Heat Lin syndrome can refer to an acute urinary tract
infection or chronic interstitial cystitis. In both cases, we need to
address the root cause (which could be stress, emotional trauma, or
diet) to prevent reoccurrence.
4. • Definition: descending & protruding of an organ. It often
occurs with the bladder, uterus, and rectum.
• Causes: for pelvic floor organs, it’s often a weakness that
occurs with aging or after childbirth.
For the rectum, it comes from years
of straining and bowel issues, and
can occur with both genders.
• Treatment option:
ear (Rectum, Uterus, or Bladder).
Prolapse
Rectum
Bladder
Uterus
5. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
(any stage)
SP Qi
Sinking
1st stage - Rectum: comes out during bowel
movement, then goes back in on itself.
Pelvic Floor organs: feeling of bearing down
sensation.
2nd stage - Rectum & uterus: 5 cm out and needs
to be put back in manually.
Bladder: needs to urinate all the time.
3rd stage - Rectum & uterus: comes out 10 cm or
more and cannot be put back manually (will need
surgery).
All stages have loose stools or chronic diarrhea,
fatigue, bearing down feeling in lower abdomen.
T: pale with teeth marks, P: weak-thin-deep
Bu
Zhong
Yi Qi
Tang
+
Wu Bei
Zi
DU 20,
REN 6,
ST 36,
SP 6
PELVIC
FLOOR:
add
BL 31 to
BL 34
RECTUM:
add
DU 1, BL 57
Prolapse
6. • Definition: Lin syndrome refers to any painful urination, and has many
categories in TCM. There are 5 types of Lin syndromes: Heat, Stone, Qi,
Blood & Cloudy.
• Causes: weak Essence, pathogens, diet, emotions, trauma, too much sexual
activityp, difficult childbirth for women.
• Western common disorders: interstitial
cystitis, nephritis, gonorrhea, prostatitis,
chyluria, systemic lupus, kidney stones, UTI
& more.
• Treatment options: ear (BL, KD, LV, Urethra).
Painful Urination
Syndrome
Lin in Chinese
BL
LV
KD
Urethra
7. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Damp
Heat in
BL
Frequent, painful, burning, urgent urination; pain
radiates to navel (worse with pressure); dark,
turbid, smelly urine; nausea; bitter taste; thirsty.
T: red with a greasy yellow coat, P: soft-rapid
Ba
Zheng
San
REN 3, SP 6,
SP 9, REN 9,
LV 2, SJ 5,
BL 62, BL 28
HT Fire
moves
down to
SI
Frequent, burning, painful, concentrated urine;
red face; thirsty; heat in chest; irritable;
insomnia; palpitations; anxiety. T: red with a
redder tip & a yellow coat, P: big-rapid
Dao
Chi San
REN 3, ST 28,
SP 6, HT 8,
PC 8, SP 9,
Yin Tang
LV
Fire
Frequent, urgent, burning, painful, concentrated
urine; anger; tinnitus; temporal headaches; red
face & eyes; rib pain; constipation. T: red with
redder edges & a yellow coat, P: wiry-rapid
Long
Dan Xie
Gan
Tang
REN 3, BL 28,
LV 2, LV 5,
LV 3, SJ 6,
GB 34
HEAT Lin Syndrome
This often includes urinary tract infection or interstitial cystitis
8. Patterns Symptoms Acupuncture
Asymptomatic
Stones
No symptoms
BL 23, BL 28, KD 6,
SP 9, GB 25, REN 3,
ST 28
SP 6, SP 10
Blood Stasis
Stones
Acute or chronic lower back
pain that is fixed; copious dark
blood in the urine
Same as pattern above
+ SP 10, BL 17,
ST 29, BL 32
Damp
Heat stones
Acute or chronic lower back
pain that radiates to inner
thighs & genitals; burning urine
Same as first pattern
+ LV 5, HT 8, LV 2,
GB 34, REN 9
STONE Lin Syndrome
Do NOT use electro-acupuncture: the stone may be too large and try to pass, which would be
dangerous. The purpose of the treatment is to lessen the pain. For prevention: patients should
avoid all oxalic acid foods (rhubarb, spinach, chocolate1, plums, potatoes & Swiss chard).
9. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
LV
overacts
on SP
Lower abdominal fullness & pain
that radiates to top of thighs (worse
with emotional stress, but better
after urination or relaxation), feels
incomplete after urinating, rib
pain, moody, fatigue. P: wiry
Chen
Xiang
San or
Chai Hu
Shu Gan
San
BL 18, LV 3,
LV 5, ST 30,
REN 3, BL 28,
BL 20, SP 6
Qi Lin
Syndrome
Acupuncture is very effective for Qi Lin. The patient needs to also
meditateÄ or use relaxation techniques, as it is often caused by stress.
10. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Fire
Painful, urgent, burning, frequent urination
with fresh red blood in urine; fever; lower
back pain; vomiting; bitter taste; constipation.
T: red with a yellow coat, P: slippery-rapid-big
Xiao Ji
Yin Zi
REN 3, SP 6,
BL 17, BL 28,
+ bleed HT 8
Blood
Stasis
Sharp stabbing pain during urination, purple
clots in urine, purple lips/nails, dark circles
under eyes. T: purple, P: choppy
Shao Fu
Zhu Yu
Tang
REN 3, BL 28,
SP 10, BL 17,
SP 6
KD Yin
Deficiency
Mild urination pain with light, red blood
in urine (worse in afternoons & evenings);
sore lower back & knees; 5 centre heat;
insomnia; night sweats.
T: red with a scanty coat, P: thin-rapid
Zhi Bai
Di
Huang
Wan
BL 23, BL 28,
REN 3, REN 4,
KD 6, LV 1,
SP 6, SP 1
BLOOD Lin Syndrome
Recommended diet: barley water or alfalfa tea6 helps reduce the discomfort.
Yu Nan Bai Yao may be taken in addition to the main formula, to help stop the bleeding.
11. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Damp
Heat
Rice water-like urine that may contain
fatty, globule-like materials; burning
& painful urination; bitter taste; heavy
legs. T: red with a greasy-yellow coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Bei Xie
Fen Qing
Yin
BL 28, BL 22,
REN 3, SP 9,
REN 9, ST 28,
GB 34, ST 40,
KD 7
KD Qi
Deficiency
Cloudy, oily urine; painful, difficult
urination; almost incontinence; lower
back pain; fatigue; dizziness.
T: pale, P: weak
Jin Suo
Gu Jing
Wan
BL 28, BL 23,
BL 22, SP 9,
REN 3, REN 4,
KD 3
CLOUDY Lin
Syndrome
Chyluria is the most common western disorder in this case. It needs to be treated with
herbs for a long time so it doesn’t return, even after the symptoms are all gone.
12. • Definition: a sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria
gonorrhoeae, a bacterium that can grow and multiply easily in the warm,
moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and
fallopian tubes in women, and in the urethra in both women and men.
The bacteriumÅ can also grow in the mouth, throat, eyes, and anus.
Gonorrhea is a very common infectious disease.
• Western treatment: several antibioticsL can successfully cure gonorrhea
in adolescents and adults. Because many people with gonorrhea also have
chlamydia (another sexually transmitted infection), antibiotics for both
infections are usually given together.
• TCM External Treatment: make a paste with decocted Huang Bai,
Pu Gong Yin, Bai Xian Pi & Ku Shen, and apply twice a day until resolved.
Gonorrhea 1
13. • Symptoms in women Ç: often mild, but most women who are infected
have no symptoms. Even when a woman has symptoms, they can be so
non-specific as to be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection.
The initial symptoms and signs in women include: a painful or burning
sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding
between periods. Women with gonorrhea are at risk of developing serious
complications from the infection, regardless of the presence or severity of
symptoms.
• Complications in women: gonorrhea is a common cause of pelvic
inflammatory disease (PID). Women with PID do not necessarily have
symptoms. When symptoms are present, they can be very severe and can
include abdominal pain and fever. PID can lead to internal abscesses (pus-
filled “pockets” that are hard to cure) and long-lasting, chronic pelvic pain.
Gonorrhea 2
14. • Symptoms in men É: although many men with gonorrhea may have no
symptoms at all, some men have some signs or symptoms that appear two
to five days after infection. Symptoms can take as long as 30 days to
appear and include: a burning5 sensation when urinating, or a white,
yellow, or green discharge from the penis. Sometimes men with gonorrhea
get painful or swollen testicles.
• Complications in men: gonorrhea can cause epididymitis, a painful
condition of the testicles that can lead to infertility if left untreated.
• Other possible symptoms in both men & women: rectal infection may
include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel
movements. Rectal infection also may cause no symptoms. Infections in
the throat may cause a sore throat, but usually cause no symptoms.
Gonorrhea 3
15. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Toxic
Damp
Heat
Painful burning urination, lower
abdominal spasms & pain, dry mouth,
bitter taste, constipation, nausea, large
amount of sticky-yellow vaginal
discharge, heavy limbs. T: red with a
yellow-greasy coat, P: slippery-rapid-big
Long Dan
Xie Gan Tang
+
Ba Zheng
San
SP 9, SP 6,
BL 63,
ST 44, LI 11,
LV 2, LV 5
HT
Fire
Painful burning urination which may
have blood, insomnia, mouth ulcers,
dry mouth, red face. T: red with a dry
yellow coat, P: big-rapid
Dao Chi San +
Huang Lian,
Huang Bai,
Lian Zi Xin
HT 5, PC 8,
LV 5, LV 2,
LI 11, SI 6,
HT 7
SP Qi
Deficiency
& Damp
Painful, turbid, murky urine; white
sticky discharge from vagina or penis;
poor appetite; fatigue; heavy limbs.
T: pale with a greasy coat,
P: slippery-weak
Wu Ling San
+ Yi Yi Ren
SP 9, REN 9,
SP 6, SP 3,
LV 5, ST 36
Gonorrhea 4
16. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Qi &
Blood
Stasis
Stabbing, painful urination; lower
abdomen & Liver meridian spasms &
pain; irritable; depressed; rib pain; sighs a
lot; headaches. T: purple, P: wiry-choppy
Chai Hu Shu
Gan San +
Xue Fu Zhu
Yu Tang
SP 10, SP 6,
LI 4, LV 3,
LV 5, BL 17
KD Yin
&
Essence
Deficiency
Chronic, burning, painful urination;
infertility; lower back pain; dizziness;
poor memory; insomnia; red cheeks.
T: red with a scanty coat & cracks,
P: thin-rapid
Zhi Bai Di
Huang Wan
KD 3, KD 6,
REN 4, DU 4,
SP 6, ST 36,
LV 5, KD 1
KD
Yang
Deficiency
Chronic, painful, long stream urination;
frequent dribbling; incontinence;
impotence; low libido; lower back pain;
cold body; early morning diarrhea.
T: pale & swollen with a wet coat,
P: deep-weak-slow
Ji Sheng Shen
Qi Wan + Yi
Zhi Ren, San
Paio Xiao,
Mu Li
KD 6, SP 9,
SP 6, ST 36,
BL 23, LV 5
+ moxa:
DU 4 & REN 4
Gonorrhea 5
17. • Definition: a common sexually transmitted infection caused by
the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Sexual contact is the primary
way that the virus spreadsÅ. After the initial infection, the
virus lies dormant in your body and can reactivate several times
a year. Transmission can occur from an infected partner who
does not have a visible sore, and may not know that he or she is
infected. It can also cause infections of the mouth and lipsÑ,
so-called "fever blisters.”
• Genital herpes infections are more common in women
(approximately one out of four women;) than in men (almost
one out of five).
Genital Herpes 1
18. • Symptoms: most individuals have no or only minimal signs or
symptoms from infection. When signs do occur, they typically appear
as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The
blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two - four
weeks to heal, the first time they occur. Typically, another outbreak can
appear weeks or months after the first, but it almost always is less
severe and shorter than the first outbreak. Stress makes it worse. q
• Pregnancy & genital herpes: it is important that women avoid
contracting herpes during pregnancy, because a first episode during
pregnancy causes a greater risk of transmission to the baby{. If a
woman has active genital herpes at delivery, a cesarean delivery is
usually performed.
Genital Herpes 2
19. • Diagnosis & western medicine treatment: blood tests] or
sampling of sores during outbreaks are done to determine if the
virus is the cause. Antiviral medication is given during an
outbreak. No Western cure is known yet, but it is recommended
to strengthen the immune system and reduce stress.
• TCM external treatment: sitz baths
daily with Qing Dai & Ma Chi Xian
during outbreaks.
• TCM Treatment options:
ear (LV, Genitalia, Rectum)
Genital Herpes 3
LV
Genitalia
Rectum
20. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Wind
Heat
Slight fever; aversion to wind; light chills;
outbreak of blisters (watery, itchy & slightly
painful) in genital area and possibly on mouth
& lips; thirsty; sore throat. T: red with
a yellow/white coat, P: floating-rapid
Jin
Fang Bai
Du San
LI 4, LI 11,
DU 14, LV 2,
BL 12, LV 5
Damp
Heat in
LV
channel
Watery, painful & burning blisters (red on the
edges) may be found on genitals or anal area;
yellow dark urine; fatigue; dry mouth; thirsty;
light fever. T: red with a yellow greasy coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Long
Dan Xie
Gan
Tang
LV 5, LV 2,
SP 6, GB 34,
GB 41, SP 9
Yin
Deficiency
+ Damp
Heat in
Lower
Jiao
Long time herpes, post menses in women, red-
burning-painful-itchy sores on genitalia with
possible ulcers, dizzy, tinnitus, red cheeks, night
sweats, irritable, insomnia, scanty dark urine,
palpitations, lower back pain, dry mouth & throat.
T: red with a scanty greasy coat, P: thin-rapid
Zhi Bai
Di
Huang
Wan
KD 3, HT 7,
KD 7, SP 6,
ST 36, SP 9,
LV 5, LV 2,
BL 15, BL 23
Genital Herpes 4
21. • Definition: human papilloma virus (HPV) is the name for a group of
viruses that includes more than 100 different strains. More than 30 of
these viruses are sexually transmitted, and they can infect the genital
area of men and women, including the skin of the penis, vulva, anus,
and the linings of the vagina, cervix, or rectum. Most people who
become infected with HPV will not have any symptoms and will clear
the infection on their own. They may cause mild PAP test abnormalities
or genital warts. But some of these viruses may also lead to cancer of
the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, or penis.
• Transmission: the types of HPV that infect the genital area are spread
primarily through genital contact. Most HPV infections have no
signs or symptoms; most infected persons therefore are unaware they
are infected, and can transmit the virus to a sex partner.
Human Papilloma Virus
1
22. • Symptoms: the virus lives in the skin or mucous membranes
and usually causes no symptoms. Genital warts usually appear
as soft, moist, pink, or flesh-coloured swellings, usually in the
genital area. They can be raised or flat, single or multiple,
small or large, and sometimes cauliflower-shaped. After sexual
contact with an infected person, warts may appear within
weeks or months, or not at all.
• Pregnancy & HPV: rarely, a pregnant woman can pass HPV
to her baby during vaginal delivery. A babyu that is exposed
to HPV can (very rarely though) develop warts in the throat or
voice box.
Human Papilloma Virus
2
23. • Western medicine treatment: genital warts are diagnosed
by visual inspection. Visible genital warts can be removed by
medications the patient applies, or by treatments performed
by a health care provider. There is no cure for HPV infection,
although in most women the infection goes away on its own.
The treatments provided (drugs) are directed to the changes
in the skin or mucous membrane caused by HPV infection,
such as warts and pre-cancerous changes in the cervix.
• TCM external treatment: for genital warts, wash warts
twice a day with Da Qing Ye, Ban Lan Gen, Tu Fu Ling and
Bai Xian Pi.
Human Papilloma Virus
3
24. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
LV Yin
Deficiency
Chronic warts (grey, rough & cauliflower
shaped) on penis or rectal area, dizziness, low
grade fever in afternoons, thirsty, dry mouth,
irritable. T: red with a scanty coat, P: thin-rapid
Da Bu Yin
Wan + Tu
Fu Ling
KD 3, SP 6,
ST 36, LV 5,
BL 18, BL 23
Blood
Stasis
Chronic dark brown warts located in either the
internal or external genital area, painful menses,
stabbing headaches. T: purple, P: choppy
Tao Hong
Si Wu
Tang
BL 17, SP 10,
SP 6, LV 5,
LI 4, LV 3
Wind
Heat
Itchy genitalia, large amount of red single
warts, low fever, thirsty, constipation.
T: white-yellow coat, P: floating-rapid
Yin Qiao
San + Tu
Fu Ling
SJ 5, GB 20,
LI 4, LI 11,
DU 14, LV 5
LV & GB
Damp
Heat
External genital warts (soft with pus, without
itchiness), warts are the size of soybeans,
scanty dark urine, nausea, fatigue, thirsty.
T: red sides with a yellow-greasy coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Long Dan
Xie Gan
Tang + Tu
Fu Ling
LV 5, LV 2,
GB 34,
GB 41,
SP 9, ST 36
Human Papilloma Virus
4
25. • Definition: a common sexually transmitted infection caused by
the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which can damage a
woman's reproductive organs. Even though symptoms of
chlamydia are usually mild or absent, serious complications that
cause irreversible damage, including infertility, can occur before
a woman ever recognizes a problem. Chlamydia also can cause
discharge from the penis of an infected man. Women are
frequently re-infected if their sex partners are not treated.
• Transmission: can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral
sex. Because the cervix of teenage girls and young women is not
fully matured, they are at particularly high risk of infection if
sexually active.
Chlamydia 1
26. • Western medicine treatment: 1 week of antibiotics.L
• Symptoms: most infected people have no symptoms. Men or
women who have anal intercourse may acquire chlamydial
infection in the rectum, which can cause rectal pain, discharge,
or bleeding. Chlamydia can also be found in the throats of
women and men having oral sex with an infected partner.
• Symptoms in men É: men with signs or symptoms might
have a discharge from their penis, or a burning sensation when
urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the
opening of the penis.
Chlamydia 2
27. • Symptoms in women Ç: if symptoms do occur, they usually appear
within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure. In women, the bacteria initially
infect the cervix and the urethra. Women who have symptoms might
have an abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when
urinating. When the infection spreads from the cervix to the fallopian
tubes, some women will still have no signs or symptoms; others have
lower abdominal pain, lower back pain, nausea, fever, pain during
intercourse, or bleeding between menstrual periods.]
• Pregnancy & chlamydia: it can also be passed from an infected mother
to her baby during vaginal childbirthÖ. In pregnant women, there is
some evidence that untreated chlamydial infections can lead to
premature delivery. Babies who are born to infected mothers can get
chlamydial infections in their eyes and respiratory tracts.
Chlamydia 3
28. Patterns Symptoms Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Damp
Heat in
Lower
Jiao
Burning, dark, painful urination; sticky yellow
discharge from vagina or penis; fatigue; heavy
legs; tight band headaches; slight fever; bloated;
no thirst. T: red with a greasy yellow coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Ba Zheng
San + Er
Miao San
LV 5, LV 3,
REN 9, SP 9,
GB 34, GB 40,
LV 2, LI 4
Yang
Ming
Heat
Fever; nausea; vomiting; Yang Ming headaches;
bleeding between periods or bleeding when
passing stools (with rectal pain); constipation.
T: red with a dry yellow coat, P: big-rapid
Qing Wei
San + Da
Cheng Qi
Tang
LI 11, ST 44,
LI 4, REN 12,
PC 6, ST 25
+ bleed LV 1
Wind
Heat
Slight fever & chills; aversion to wind;
itchy, painful external genital area;
itchy anus; sore throat. T: white-yellow coat,
P: floating & slightly rapid
Yin
Qiao
San
LI 4, GB 20,
LV 5, BL 12,
BL 13
KD & SP
Yang
Deficiency
& Damp
Lower back pain & lower abdominal pain;
abundant white, sticky, vaginal discharge or anal
sticky discharge; pain during intercourse; low
libido; cold limbs; diarrhea; edema. T: swollen,
pale with a greasy coat, P: deep-weak-slow
Jin Gui Shen
Qi Wan +
Sheng Ling
Bai Zhu San
REN 4, ST 36,
SP 6, KD 6, SP 9,
BL 32, BL 23,
BL 20 +
moxa DU 4
Chlamydia 4
30. Skin
Disorders
• Dermatology is such a vast and complicated subject, and quite
difficult to treat. In this chapter, I have only included the most
common skin disorders, which are less complicated and easier to
manage or resolve. In many cases, Chinese herbal formulas will be
much more powerful in treating skin disorders than acupuncture.
• Acute rashes are part of external pathogen invasions, and usually
are addressed by expelling the pathogens. But when looking at
chronic skin issues, we need to look at the root cause(s), such as
diet, hormonal imbalances, emotional stress, chemical exposure and
more.
31. • Definition: chronic skin condition affecting mostly teenagers,
although it affects people of all ages. Includes pimples,
blackheads & whiteheads forming around hair follicles, which
may contain pus and be painful. Located mostly on the face,
upper back or chest. Depending on its severity, acne can cause
emotional distress and scar the skin.
• TCM causes: diet, stress, drugs, medication side effects,
hormonal changes (pregnancy, menses, etc).
• Treatment options: Jin Huang Cao paste (apply to skin and let
it dry out overnight). Addressing diet is key: avoid all processed
foods T, sugar x and alcoholÜ.
Acne
32. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
LU
Heat
Hot & painful, red pimples, red face,
environmental allergies, coughs easily.
T: red with a yellow coat, P: full-rapid
Pi Pa Qing
Fei Yin +
Pu Gong Yin
LU 5, LI 11,
LU 7, LI 15,
ST 44
SP Qi
Deficiency
+
Phlegm &
Damp
Pale pink eruptions, deep nodules with
oozing fluids (thick or watery), painful
& will leave a scar if picked at, loose
stools, fatigue, bloated, heavy head.
T: pale with a greasy coat, P: slippery
Sheng Ling
Bai Zhu San
+ Hai Zao Yu
Hu Tang
SP 6, SP 9,
ST 40, LI 4,
ST 36, LV 3,
REN 9
ST Heat
&
LI Damp
Heat
Very red, painful & swollen pimples
with pus; oily skin; constipation; dark
urine; acid reflux; heart burn.
T: red with a greasy yellow coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Yin
Chen hao
Tang
ST 36, ST 37,
LI 11, LI 15,
LI 4, ST 25,
SP 9
Acne 1
33. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Blood
Stasis
Purple scars; many years of
dark, red bleeding and very
painful sebaceous pimples;
purple nails and lips.
T: purple, P: choppy
Tao
Hong Si
Wu
Tang
BL 17, SP 10,
LI 11, LI 4,
GB 34
Toxic
Heat
Red, large & very inflamed
sebaceous pimples; very
painful pus abscesses.
T: red with a dry yellow coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Wu Wei
Xiao
Du Yin
BL 17, SP 10,
LI 11, ST 44,
LI 4, ST 40
Acne 2
34. • Definition: chronic skin condition which develops over years
and gets worse with time. Dilated vessels on the cheeks
and/or nose, with the skin being very red or even purple, and
becoming thicker with time.
• TCM causes: greasy processed foods, sugar, alcohol,
smoking, weak Kidney Essence.
• Treatment options: Yi Shao paste (apply to area daily).
Avoid all causes above. Avoid over exposure to the sun á
and extreme temperatures. Minimize stress.
Rosacea
35. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
ST & LU
Heat
Early stage: red nose, feels hot, bitter
taste, dry stools, dark urine, heartburn,
indigestion. T: red with a yellow coat,
P: big-rapid
Xie Bai
San
LI 11, LI 15,
LI 4, ST 44,
ST 36, ST 37
Toxic
Heat
Middle stage: eruptions with pus on
cheeks; painful, redder & thicker skin;
constipation; irritable; insomnia.
T: red with a dry yellow coat &
strawberry prickles, P: slippery-rapid
Wu Wei
Xiao Du
Yin
LI 11, LI 4,
LI 15, ST 44,
ST 36,
+ bleed LU 11
Blood
Stasis
& Heat
Late stage: dilated pores, very red &
purple skin (very thick on the cheeks),
feels hot all the time, constipation.
T: dark red with purple dots,
P: choppy-rapid
Liang
Xue Si
Wu Tang
ST 36, LI 4,
LV 3, SP 10,
LI 11, LI 15,
ST 44
Rosacea
36. • Definition: common chronic skin disorder characterized by
a red, itchy rash which is covered with thick, dry, white, scaly
patches. It is mostly seen on joint areas (knee, elbow, wrist),
but can also affect the scalp, ears, and genitalia area. This
condition tends to go through cycles, flaring up for a few
weeks or months, then subsiding for a while. It can be part of
an autoimmune disorder in some cases.
• TCM Causes: stress, emotional trauma, overwork, diet,
alcoholÜ, medications.L
• Treatment options: Liu Huang paste (apply daily on affected
area until resolved). Avoid all causes above, & avoid smoking.
Psoriasis
37. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Damp
Heat
Usually near the axilla or inguinal region; skin
is worse on damp days, or when eating greasy
food; may have pus discharge and blood;
irritable; bloated; heavy legs; smelly diarrhea.
T: red with a yellow-greasy coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Bei Xie
Sheng Shi
Tang
+ San
Miao San
SP 9, LI 4,
LI 15, LV 14,
LV 5, LV 2,
LI 11, ST 36
Cold
Damp
Eruptions close to joints (fingers, wrists,
knees) causing pain; stiff, swollen & deformed
joints; worse during cold rainy days; cold
body; bloated. T: white coat, P: soft
Du Huo
Ji Sheng
Tang
REN 9, SP 9,
ST 36, SP 6
+ Moxa all
joints affected
Toxic
Fire
Red skin on whole body with pus (no flakes),
burning sensation, constipation, fever, thirsty
for cold drinks, insomnia.
T: crimson with a yellow coat, P: rapid-big
Qing
Wen
Bai Du
Yin
LI 11, LI 4,
LI 15, ST 44
+ Bleed Jing-
Well points
Psoriasis 1
38. Psoriasis 2
Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Blood
Heat
Most common psoriasis: red skin with
white grey patches (very itchy) and
bleeding spots, constipation, feels hot
all the time, dark urine, irritable.
T: red with strawberry prickles,
P: choppy-rapid
Xi Jiao
Di
Huang
Tang
ST 36, LI 11,
LI 4, LI 15,
ST 44,
SP 10, SP 6
Blood
Stasis
Dark, grey patches becoming dry &
flaky near ankles & knees (along with
joint pain); very chronic; irritable;
painful menses with large dark clots.
T: purple, P: choppy
Tao
Hong
Si Wu
Tang
SP 10,
BL 17, SP 6,
ST 36, LI 4,
LI 15
39. • Definition: superficial skin inflammation characterized by
redness, pus, blisters and crusted flaky skin, with no clear edges.
Spreads easily. Most common affected areas are the face,
elbows, ears, vaginal area, and feet. Acute, but often becomes
chronic. Aggravated by temperature changes, humidity, stress,
irritants (perfume, fabric, soap, detergents, etc), or diet.
• TCM causes: diet (seafoodà, alcoholâ, spicy & greasy
foods), environment, weather, lifestyle (stress, emotions),
chronic illness.
• Treatment options: Ju Hua or chamomile tea or neem cream.
Eczema
40. Patterns Symptoms Herbal formula Acupuncture
Damp
Heat
Due to diet. Acute onset of red, itchy,
burning eruptions; blisters with watery
discharge; dark scanty urine; irritable;
indigestion; bloated; smelly diarrhea.
T: red with a greasy coat, P: rapid-slippery
Bei Xie Shen Shi
Tang + Er Miao
San + Sang Ye,
Chan Tui
SP 9, LI 4,
LI 15, ST 36,
SP 6, ST 44,
LI 11, ST 25
LV
Wind
Worse when eating seafood or with
stress. Chronic, thick, extremely itchy
dark-crusted skin; tics or muscle
spasms; headaches. P: wiry
Si Wu Xiao
Feng Tang
+ Chan Tui,
Qin Jiao
LV 3, LI 4,
LI 15, LV 5,
SP 10, GB 34
External
Wind
Damp
Heat
Acute, itchy red eruptions, due to
allergens (irritants or seasonal weeds);
itchy throat; feeling hot; achy;
runny nose. P: floating
Xiao Feng San
LI 4, LI 15,
ST 36, SJ 5,
SP 9, LI 11
SP Qi
Deficiency
& Damp
Pale, chronic, crusty skin with watery
discharge; bloated; poor digestion;
fatigue. T: pale with a greasy coat,
P: slippery-weak
Zhu Shi Wei
Ling Tang
+ Huo Xiang
ST 36, SP 6,
SP 9, LI 4,
LI 15, BL 20,
BL 22
Eczema
41. • Definition: chronic skin inflammation characterized by intense
itching. As a result of much scratching, the skin becomes thick &
crusty. The inflammation spreads easily, and may come and go. The
most common affected areas are the anus, vagina, or the whole body.
The first step in treating pruritus is finding the source of the itch.
• In TCM, itchiness is always due to Wind.
• Main causes: dry skin, allergies, pregnancy, lymphoma, renal
disease, diabetes and medications.
• Treatment options: Ku Shen herbal tincture ~, applied daily on
the affected area.
Pruritus
42. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Blood
Heat
+
Wind
Itchiness usually occurs in summer and is
relieved by cold compress; severe itching
with red patches. T: red with a yellow coat,
P: full-rapid-choppy
Zhi Yang
Xi Feng
Tang
SP 10, LI 11,
ST 44, LU 7, LI 15,
LI 4, SJ 5, BL 12
Blood
Stasis +
Wind
Purple itchy skin in waist area (gets more
purple with scratching), irritable, painful
menses with clots. T: purple, P: choppy
Shu
Feng
Huo Xue
Tang
SP 10, SP 6, LI 15,
LI 4, SJ 5, BL 12,
BL 17
Blood
Deficiency
+
Wind
Affects older adults; dry skin that’s worse
during fall & winter; scratching induces
flaky skin; fatigue; weak muscles; poor
memory; bruises easily. P: weak, T: pale
Dang Gui
Yin Zi
Tang
SP 6, ST 36,
BL 17, BL 12,
BL 18, BL 20, LV 8
Wind
Damp
Occurs during seasonal or weather changes,
affects mostly children, scratching which
induces fluid discharge, fatigue, clear nasal
discharge. T: greasy coat, P: floating
Quan
Cong
Fang
SP 9, ST 36, SJ 5,
BL 12, BL 13,
LU 7, LI 4, LI 15
Pruritus 1
43. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
External
Wind
Spring time allergies affecting face & neck
area, red patches of itchy skin (acute and
dry). T: normal, P: wiry-floating
Wu She
Qu Feng
Tang
LU 7, ST 36,
LI 4, LI 15,
SJ 5, BL 12
Wind
Cold
Occurs more during winter (gets worse on
very cold days), or going from a heated house
into extreme cold outdoor temperatures; nasal
discharge; frontal headaches; cold, achy body.
T: white coat, P: floating
Gui Zhi
Ma
Huang Ge
Ban Tang
SP 6, REN 8,
SJ 5, ST 36,
LI 4 +
Moxa BL 12
Wind
Damp
Heat
Worse with stress or emotions; affects the
lower Jiao (vaginal or anal area); worse at
night or when sweating; very itchy and
burning pain; irritable; diarrhea; scanty dark
urine; insomnia. T: red sides with a greasy
coat, P: wiry-rapid-slippery
Long Dan
Xie Gan
Tang
LI 4, LI 15,
LU 7, LV 5,
SP 6, SP 9,
LI 11, ST 44
Pruritus 2
44. • Definition: urticaria is also called hives. It comes &
disappears quickly (within 24 hours), doesn’t leave scars, and
can be acute or become chronic. The capillaries from the
dermis dilate and form patches of varying shapes and sizes, but
with defined edges. The key is to figure out the root cause.
• Main causes: exercise, medicationsL, food, insect bitesä,
stress, inhalants, congenital, exposure to cold or heat.
• Treatment options: Bai Bu paste or sandalwood to relieve
acute hives (not preventive). The formula Yu Ping Feng San
can be taken for at least one month, as a preventative measure.
Urticaria - Hives
45. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Wind
Cold
Occurs in winter or spring, pale
hives, aversion to cold, body aches,
chills, sneezing a lot.
P: floating-tense, T: white coat
Gui Zhi
Tang
LI 4, LU 7,
LI 15, ST 36,
SP 6, + Moxa:
BL 12
Wind
Heat
Occurs in summer or fall, red hives,
light fever, sore throat, frontal
headaches, mild sweating.
P: floating-rapid, T: yellow coat
Xiao Feng
San
LI 4, LI 11,
LI 15, LU 7,
DU 14, SJ 5
Insect
bites
Any acute insect bites (wasp, spider,
etc) or poison ivy are an external
pathogens invasion with toxicity.
External
treatment
only
Bleed these Jing
Well points:
LU 11, LI 1
& PC 9
Urticaria - Hives
1
46. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
LI & ST
Heat
Red hives all over the body (worse on
neck, elbow or knees), diarrhea or
constipation with smelly stools,
bad breath, acid reflux, indigestion,
reaction to food. T: red with a yellow coat,
P: slippery-rapid
Fang Feng
Tong
Sheng
San
LI 11, LI 4,
LI 15, ST 36,
ST 37, ST 25,
SJ 5, DU 14
Qi &
Blood
Deficiency
Chronic, recurring hives with vertex
feeling cold; worse with stress or
exercise; pale face/lips; poor appetite;
insomnia; poor memory. T: pale, P: weak
Ba Zhen
Tang
ST 36, SP 6,
BL 17, BL 18,
BL 20, DU 20,
LI 4
Ren
&
Chong
disharmony
Affects women around menses and recurs
monthly, painful menses, fatigue, many
triggers (perfumes, food, extreme cold or
heat). T: pale purple, P: choppy
Er Xian
Tang +
Si Wu
Tang
PC 6, SP 4,
LU 7, KD 6,
ST 36, SP 6,
BL 17
Urticaria - Hives
2
47. • Definition: varicella zoster virus infection is characterized by neuralgic
pain in the dermatome of the affected root ganglia and eruptions on the
scalp. It’s also called zona or shingles. A person who isn’t immune
against chicken pox can get it, if in contact with a shingles-affected
patient. This condition tends to occur in weak patients with low immune
systems and the elderly. It may last months or years. Conventional
medicine prescribes drugs for pain and narcotics if severe.
• Causes: pathogens invasion, drinking alcoholâ, emotional stress,
agingV, chronic illness.
• Treatment options: scalp acupuncture is recommended. Apply Qing
Dai cream daily on the scalp.
Herpes Zoster
48. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Toxic
Heat in
LV & GB
Patches of red dots (millet-like shaped)
on the scalp, burning pain & sometimes
pricking pain, bitter taste, dry mouth,
thirst for cold drinks, anger, agitated,
constipation. T: red with redder sides
& a yellow coat, P: wiry-rapid
Long Dan
Xie Gan
Tang
+
Da Huang
SJ 5, GB 41,
LV 2, GB 14,
GB 43, LI 11,
Bleed LV 1 +
A-Shi points on
affected area
Damp
Heat in
middle
Jiao
Large patches of whitehead pimples with
pus, which easily break & seep; severe,
aching pain on scalp, forehead and above
eyes; constant hunger; bloated; loose
smelly stools; bad breath; fatigue.
T: greasy-yellow coat, P: slippery-rapid
Si Miao
San +
Yi Yi Ren
and Tu Fu
Ling
ST 36, SP 6,
SP 9, REN 9,
ST 44, ST 8,
LI 4 +
A-Shi points on
affected area
Qi
Stagnation
& Blood
Stasis
Dark purple dots oozing blood on the
scalp; stabbing, unbearable pain.
T: purple with purple dots,
P: choppy-wiry
She
Chuan
Fang
LI 4, LV 3,
SP 10, SP 6 +
A-Shi points on
affected area
Herpes Zoster
49. • Definition: a chronic progressive autoimmune disease that is
characterized by inflammation, and hardening & thickening
of the skin. It can also affect muscles, joints, blood vessels,
lungs, kidneys, the heart and other organs.
• Causes: diet, alcoholX, pathogens, weak Kidney Essence,
chronic illness, and/or stress.
• External treatment: apply a paste daily on joints & skin
made of Ban Lang Gen, Pu Gong Yin, Zi Cao & Mu Dan Pi.
Scleroderma
50. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
Toxic
Heat & Yin
Deficiency
Fingers and toes dry & black, leading to
gangrene; low grade fever; rapid breathing;
palpitations; dizziness; dry throat & skin;
bleeding gums; dry cough. T: crimson with
a yellow dry coat, P: thin-rapid-slippery
Qing Yin
Tang + Qi
Ju Di Huang
Wan
ST 44, SP 6,
KD 3 LU 5,
LI 15, LI 5,
KD 1
Wind Cold
& Blood
Stasis &
SP Qi
Deficiency
Cool, numb & itchy limbs with taut dark
skin; depressed; loose stools; poor appetite;
painful joints; muscles & skin feel better
with warmth; short of breath; fatigue.
T: pale-purple with a white coat,
P: choppy-weak-tense
Qin Jiao
Tang + Bu
Zhon Yi Qi
Tang
LI 4, LV 3,
SP 10, ST 36,
SP 6, BL 20,
Moxa all
points
SP Qi
Deficiency
Damp &
ST Heat
The skin of the eyelids, face, hands and/or
upper back are purple, swollen & hot (but
feet & lower body are cool); nausea; bleeding
gums; vomiting; loose stools. T: pale with a
greasy yellow coat, P: weak-slippery
Qin Wei San
+ Shen
Ling Bai
Zhu San
ST 36, SP 6,
SP 9, ST 44,
LI 4, BL 20
Scleroderma 1
51. Patterns Symptoms
Herbal
Formula
Acupuncture
SP & KD
Yang
Deficiency
&
Blood
Stasis
Purple swollen eyelids, face, hands &
upper back; cannot make a fist because
skin is too taut; skin is white &
blackish; cold body; lower back ache;
low libido; fatigue; poor appetite;
incontinence; depressed.
T: pale, purple and swollen,
P: weak, deep and choppy
Yang He
Tang
+
Gui Zhi
Tang
BL 20, BL 23,
BL 17, LI 4,
LV 3, SP 10,
DU 4, ST 36,
SP 6 + Moxa all
points
LU & KD
Yang
Deficiency
Purple, pale, swollen skin of upper &
lower back; short of breath (worse
during exertion); wheezing; lower back
pain; cold body (limbs especially);
frequent, clear urination; dizziness.
T: pale and swollen with a wet coat,
P: weak, deep and slow
Sha Shen
Mai Dong
Tang +
Yang He
Tang + Gui
Zhi Tang
BL 13, BL 23,
BL 17, DU 4,
LI 4, LV 3,
SP 10, SP 6
+ Moxa all
points
Scleroderma 2
53. TCM Cancer Support
• Everyone is afraid of the big “C”! Nobody wants to get that dreaded
diagnosis and hear these words: “It’s Cancer”. And generally, right after
receiving this shocking news, patients are thrown into a whirlwind of
treatments, that often start the next day! Not only they are experiencing
emotional trauma, but now their bodies are also being put through a
physical one as well.
• I believe our role as practitioners is to assist patients through their path
in beating this disease, whatever their decision maybe (conventional route,
integrative medicine, or natural), and knowing the strengths as well as the
limitations of our medicine. TCM and cancer is a massive subject: in this
chapter I will just address what acupuncture can do to support patients
who go through radiation or chemotherapy, as well as pre- and post
surgery protocols.
54. TCM & Cancer
• Cancer causes according to TCM: diet, environmental, emotional trauma,
external pathogens, lifestyle, and weak constitution (weak Essence). There
was an English study done in the 1990s, looking at 1009 women with uterus
cancer; the results showed 86% of these women had had sexual abuse/trauma
in their youth. To me, this shows how long-standing emotions can truly lead
to physical diseases.
• The pathology of cancer in TCM is a combination of Blood Stasis, Toxic
Heat, and Phlegm/Damp (if there is a tumour).
• The role of the practitioner when supporting cancer patients: prevention
by detecting a patient’s imbalances early, as well as prevention of recurrence;
reduce side effects of chemotherapy and/or radiation; prepare patients for
surgery; and help them recover post surgery and with symptoms
management.
55. TCM support during
Radiation
TCM treatment principles during radiation:
• Clearing Heat and toxins to prevent inflammatory reactions
• Nourishing Yin to promote body fluid production and relieve dryness
symptoms
• Fortifying Liver and Kidneys to relieve general weakness, fatigue,
depression, low blood counts, palpitation and shortness of breath
• Invigorating Spleen and harmonizing Stomach to relieve digestive
problems such as nausea, vomiting, poor appetite and diarrhea
Basic acupuncture points during radiation:
ST 44, LI 11, SJ 6, SP 10, KD 7, KD 3, ST 36, SP 6, REN 6, DU 2, LV 8,
KD 6, REN 4, PC 6, REN 12.
56. TCM support during
Chemotherapy
TCM treatment principles during chemotherapy:
• Protect organs and tissues
• Help with bone marrow production
• Help the immune system
• Reduce side effects
• Promote hair growth
Basic acupuncture points during chemotherapy:
KD 7, KD 3, PC 6, REN 12, ST 4, LU 7, KD 6, REN 4,
REN 2, DU 20, REN 17.
57. TCM support for
PRE - surgery
The TCM treatment principles for pre-surgery apply for any
surgery (cancer - related or not):
• Start 2 to 3 weeks prior to surgery with 2 acupuncture
sessions per week.
• Nourish Liver Blood and boost Kidney Qi.
Basic acupuncture points for pre-surgery:
• ST 36, SP 6, REN 6, KD 6 (L), LU 7 (R),
SP 4 (R), PC 6 (L), REN 17, DU 20, and
Yin Tang.
• Ear: Shen Men, Sympathetic, LV, KD.
Shen Men
Sympathetic
LV
KD
58. TCM support for
POST - surgery
The TCM treatment principles for post-surgery apply for any
surgery (cancer - related or not):
• 2 acupuncture sessions per week, for 2 to 3 weeks after surgery
(treatment can begin one week post surgery)
• Tonify Spleen & Stomach Qi, move
Liver Qi and relieve pain
Basic acupuncture points for post-surgery:
• ST 36, PC 6, REN 12, SP 6, SP 3, LV 3,
LI 4, GB 34. If Heat: add ST 44, LV 2.
If constipation: add ST 25, ST 37.
• Ear: Shen Men, Sympathetic, LV, KD.
Shen Men
Sympathetic
LV
KD
59. I want to thank the following people,
as this PDF would not exist without them:
• My husband for helping me edit 450+ pages, and being the perfect Yang
to my Yin.
• My mother for raising me to be courageous yet kind, and strong yet soft.
• My TCM teachers for sharing their knowledge and experience.
• Giovanni Maciocia for writing such great TCM books and inspiring me
to continue to learn.
• My AcuPro Academy online community, who continue to feed my
passion for teaching.
• My patients for keeping me humble since 2003.
My last words?
Chinese Medicine Rocks ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clara
TCM Geek
Chinese
Medicine
Rocks!
A few last
words…
60. Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Made Easy for students & practitioners
AcuProAcademy.com
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and join my social media community!
