Traditional Chinese Medicine for Digestive Health

Traditional Chinese medicine offers various herbal remedies designed to address digestive system disorders. This article explores Chinese patent medicines that alleviate issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Each remedy's Chinese name, indications, and functions are explained in detail.

These medicines are typically available in convenient forms like small round pills (wan) or tablets (pian). Many of these effective stomach remedies are produced by families with generations of expertise, using formulas that have been trusted for over two millennia.

To begin, we’ll examine a remedy for a frequent travelers' ailment: diarrhea. Proceed to the next section to discover how Chinese medicine can ease this distressing condition.

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Traditional Chinese Coptis Extract Pills

For your next trip, consider bringing Traditional Chinese Coptis Extract Pills to alleviate traveler's diarrhea symptoms.

Chinese name: Huang Lian Su Pian (hwahng lyan soo pyen)

Also known as: Coptis Extract Tablets

Indications

Diarrhea, infections, or dysentery caused by damp heat; frequent bloody or watery stools with abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever

Functions

Reduces inflammation, eliminates damp heat, and clears fire toxins

Description

This remedy is indispensable for traveling to regions with poor sanitation or unsafe water. It is highly effective in eliminating pathogens responsible for traveler's diarrhea.

The extract is derived from the rhizome of Coptis chinensis (huang lian), with berberine as the active ingredient, a potent compound known for its antibiotic properties. Found in North American goldenseal and Oregon grape, berberine also imparts a striking golden hue to these pills.

Huang Lian Su is highly potent, effectively combating bacteria that cause strep throat, pneumonia, and dysentery.

Research in China has demonstrated its efficacy in treating dysentery, comparable to sulfa drugs but without their adverse effects. Clinical studies also confirm its effectiveness against influenza, pertussis, typhoid, tuberculosis, scarlet fever, and diphtheria.

This wide range of applications highlights the sophistication of Chinese herbal medicine, which addresses both severe illnesses and minor health issues. However, this formula is not suitable for diarrhea caused by deficient cold conditions.

Manufacturer: Min-Kang Drug Manufactory

Dosage: Take 2 to 3 tablets three times daily. This remedy is designed for acute conditions and should not be used for extended periods. Limit usage to no more than one week.

Many of us have experienced stomach flu at some point. In the following section, discover a potent herbal medicine that alleviates the uncomfortable symptoms of the flu.

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Traditional Chinese Patchouli Pills

Traditional Chinese Patchouli Pills utilize the potency of an aromatic herb to alleviate nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, often providing relief in a single dose.

Chinese name: Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Wan (haw shahng jung chee wahn)

Also known as: Lophanthus Antifebrile; Agastache Qi Normalizing Pills

Indications

Summer damp stomach flu, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sticky stools

Function

Improves digestion, removes dampness, and dispels wind

Description

The primary component of this formula is Agastache (huo xiang), commonly known as patchouli. This highly fragrant, easy-to-cultivate plant belongs to the category of "aromatic herbs that transform dampness." These herbs work by stimulating the spleen with their potent aroma and clearing dampness from the organ. Symptoms of spleen dampness include nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, loss of appetite or thirst, and diarrhea.

These symptoms typically result from acute gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach "flu," which this formula effectively treats.

This highly effective formula often alleviates symptoms in just one dose. However, it should not be used alone for fever, as it has a warming nature. For heat-related symptoms like fever, it can be combined with Gan Mao Ling, Zhong Gan Ling, or Yin Qiao Jie Du Pien. It is recommended to continue taking it for an additional day after symptoms disappear to help restore normal digestive function. Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: 10 pills, three times daily

The next traditional Chinese medicine features berberine, ginger, hawthorn berry, citrus peel, and other medicinal herbs. Discover more about this remedy for indigestion and diarrhea in the following section.

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Traditional Chinese Qi-Regulating Pills

In traditional Chinese medicine, the smooth flow of qi is essential for proper digestive organ function. Chinese Qi-Regulating Pills are formulated to resolve stagnation in the digestive system.

Chinese name: Mu Xiang Shun Qi Wan (moo shahng shuhn chee wahn)

Also known as: Saussurea Qi-Regulating Pills

Indications

Food stagnation, indigestion, diarrhea, and excessive gas

Functions

Balances stagnant qi in the digestive system, alleviates stomach and intestinal pain, and resolves food stagnation

Description

This formula is particularly effective for traveler's diarrhea and gastrointestinal discomfort when combined with Huang Lian Su. The two formulas work synergistically, enhancing each other's effects: Huang Lian Su's berberine eliminates pathogens causing digestive issues, while the carminative herbs in Mu Xiang Shun Qi Wan restore normal digestive function. It is also highly effective for common issues like gas or bloating after overeating or eating too quickly.

The primary ingredient in Mu Xiang Shun Qi Wan is Saussurea lappa, also known as Aucklandia lappa. This herb is highly aromatic due to its rich volatile oil content, earning it the name mu xiang, meaning fragrant wood. Proper digestive function relies on the smooth flow of qi; stagnation leads to pain, bloating, and irregular organ activity.

Saussurea promotes the flow of vital energy in the stomach and intestines, alleviating pain, bloating, and diarrhea. It acts as an antispasmodic, relaxing intestinal muscles, and inhibits dysentery-causing bacteria.

This preparation also benefits the stomach in other ways: ginger reduces nausea and vomiting, radish seed and hawthorn berry help clear food stagnation, and citrus peel and barley sprouts strengthen stomach function. Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: 8 pills, three times daily

The following section provides detailed insights into a traditional Chinese laxative containing rhubarb. Continue reading to explore this natural remedy.

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Traditional Chinese Mild Laxative Pills

Traditional Chinese Mild Laxative Pills address constipation using a blend of cannabis seeds, peach pits, rhubarb, and other ingredients. For optimal results, adhere to the dosage instructions provided.

Chinese name: Run Chang Wan (ruhn chahng wahn)

Also known as: Moisten Intestines Pills; Peach Kernel Pills

Indications

Constipation caused by excess heat

Functions

Lubricates the intestines, stimulates bowel movements, and eliminates heat from the intestines

Description

Peach Kernel Pills serve as a gentle laxative, functioning as both an intestinal lubricant and a purgative for the large intestine, particularly for constipation caused by dryness. Ingredients like cannabis seeds (huo ma ren), peach pits (tao ren), Cistanche (rou cong rong), and Angelica sinensis (dang gui) lubricate the intestines, while rhubarb root (da huang) acts as a purgative. This formula is ideal for constipation linked to internal heat or dryness, characterized by small, hard stools or a burning sensation during bowel movements.

It’s crucial to note that a balanced diet is essential for preventing constipation: Individuals with this condition should ensure adequate water intake and consume high-fiber foods.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: 4 to 8 pills, three times daily. This patent contains rhubarb, which stimulates bowel movements, so it should not be used for more than a few days. Regular use of laxatives can lead to bowel dependency.

In the following section, we’ll introduce a traditional Chinese stomach remedy that is widely popular in both China and the United States.

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Traditional Chinese Pill Curing

Chinese Pill Curing, also referred to as Healthy Quiet Pills, provides relief for various stomach ailments. It’s an excellent remedy to keep on hand for nausea, acid indigestion, and similar issues.

Chinese name: Kang Ning Wan (kahn ning wahn)

Also known as: Healthy Quiet Pills

Indications

Stomach-related issues, including nausea, vomiting, bloating, acidity, motion sickness, or acid reflux

Functions

Improves digestion and soothes the stomach

Description

A widely popular remedy in both China and the United States, Pill Curing is a must-have for every medicine cabinet, travel kit, or purse. It effectively targets the stomach, providing quick relief from nausea, vomiting, belching, excessive stomach acid, and poor appetite. It can also be taken 30 to 60 minutes before travel to prevent motion sickness. For gastrointestinal discomfort accompanying a cold, it can be used alongside Gan Mao Ling.

Manufacturer: United Pharmaceutical

Dosage: 1 to 2 vials, three times daily, or as needed. Each vial contains small pills that can easily be swallowed with water.

Individuals experiencing ulcer pain and discomfort can also find relief through Chinese medicinal herbs. Discover an effective ulcer treatment in the next section.

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Traditional Chinese Ulcer Relief

When taken on an empty stomach, Chinese Ulcer Relief provides relief for gastric and duodenal ulcers by forming a protective layer on the stomach lining. This versatile medicine can also be applied topically to treat skin rashes.

Chinese name: Sai Mei An (sai may ahn)

Indications

Stomach lining irritation, gastric or duodenal ulcers without bleeding

Functions

Neutralizes excess stomach acid, alleviates pain, and clears heat

Description

Sai Mei An effectively treats stomach or duodenal ulcers by reducing excess stomach acid, easing pain, and forming a protective coating on the stomach lining. It contains powdered shells, such as oyster or clam, which provide an acid-neutralizing and astringent effect. Additionally, it includes borneol camphor (bing pian) to help relieve pain.

This remedy should be taken on an empty stomach, approximately 30 minutes before meals. It coats the stomach lining, shielding ulcers from irritation caused by digestive juices and food. To ensure complete healing, continue using Sai Mei An for two weeks after symptoms disappear.

Sai Mei An can also be applied topically to treat damp skin irritations like poison oak or ivy rashes. Its astringent properties help dry out blisters, while the camphor soothes itching. To use topically, empty the contents of one or more capsules (depending on the affected area) into your palm, mix with water to form a paste, and apply it to the rash. Allow the paste to dry.

Dosage: 3 capsules, three times daily

Indigestion, diarrhea, bloating, and poor appetite can all be treated with a single herbal formulation in traditional Chinese medicine. Learn more about this remedy in the next section.

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Traditional Chinese Codoniopsis, Poria, and Atractylodes Pills

For years, the Chinese have trusted Codoniopsis, Poria, and Atractylodes Pills to relieve diarrhea and other digestive issues. This formulation has even been used to support chemotherapy patients.

Chinese name: Shen Ling Bai Zhu Pian (shen ling buy zhoo pyen)

Also known as: Codonopsis, Poria, and Atractylodes Pills

Indications

Digestive issues caused by spleen deficiency, such as loose stools, bloating, poor digestion, and belching

Functions

Strengthens spleen qi, eliminates dampness, and balances digestion

Description

Shen Ling Bai Zhu Pian is a dependable remedy for chronic diarrhea or loose stools linked to qi deficiency. This condition stems from internal weakness rather than infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites.

Symptoms usually develop gradually and include indigestion, poor appetite, loose stools or diarrhea, fatigue, and a pale complexion. These are classic indicators of spleen qi deficiency, which impairs the body's ability to digest and absorb nutrients. The formula's components either enhance digestive function and vitality or act as intestinal astringents, drawing fluids from the colon to firm up stools.

This formula is named after its three primary ingredients: Shen refers to dang shen (Codonopsis pilosula), a tonic herb often used as a cost-effective alternative to ginseng. Besides enhancing digestion, many qi-tonifying herbs also boost the immune system, helping the body resist illness. Dang shen aids in defending against pathogens that threaten immune health.

It has also been shown to increase the production of both red and white blood cells, which is particularly beneficial for chemotherapy patients. Chemotherapy not only targets cancer cells but also destroys disease-fighting white blood cells, weakening the body's defenses. It often causes diarrhea and other digestive issues as well.

The term Ling refers to fu ling (Poria cocos), a wild fungus found near pine tree roots. It strengthens the spleen, harmonizes digestive organs, aids fluid metabolism, and supports immune function. Bai Zhu refers to Atractylodes macrocephala, an aromatic qi tonic that enhances spleen qi (digestive energy) and dries dampness in the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause diarrhea. This herb also boosts endurance and immune function.

Manufacturer: Plum Flower

Dosage: 6 to 12 pills, three times daily before meals

A healthy liver is crucial for overall well-being. Traditional Chinese medicine offers a specific formulation to regulate liver function. Discover more about this liver-soothing remedy in the next section.

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Traditional Chinese Liver-Soothing Pill

In traditional Chinese medicine, the free flow of qi is essential for proper liver function. Chinese Liver-Soothing Pills contain Bupleurum root and other herbs that help regulate the liver.

Chinese name: Shu Gan Wan (shoo gahn wahn)

Also referred to as: Liver Calming Pill

Primary Uses

Gastrointestinal issues linked to liver dysfunction, exacerbated by stress; common symptoms include bloating, stomach pain, nausea, frequent burping, loss of appetite, flatulence, and diarrhea

Key Benefits

Balances liver function, alleviates stagnation, enhances digestive health, and reduces discomfort

Overview

This herbal formula addresses a condition often referred to as "liver overacting on the spleen." Here, the liver's impaired ability to maintain the smooth flow of qi disrupts digestive functions, leading to symptoms like bloating, burping, stomach pain, indigestion, reduced appetite, or diarrhea. These symptoms often intensify during periods of stress.

Alongside herbs that aid digestion and alleviate pain and bloating, this formula includes Bupleurum root (chai hu), a key herb for resolving liver stagnation. This dual approach targets both the symptoms and the root cause of the imbalance.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 pills three times daily. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Explore a blend of digestive herbs designed to alleviate various gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, excessive burping, and diarrhea.

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Traditional Chinese Six Gentleman Teapills

Ginseng, Chinese licorice, Atractylodes, citrus peel, Poria, and Pinellia rhizome form the core of Chinese Six Gentleman Teapills, a traditional solution for digestive issues.

Chinese name: Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan (shahng shah loo juhn wahn),

Also known as: Aplotaxis Amomum Pills; Saussurea and Cardamon Six Gentlemen Pill

Primary Uses

Impaired digestion caused by spleen qi deficiency, leading to symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, frequent burping, and persistent diarrhea

Key Benefits

Strengthens spleen qi, alleviates phlegm, and reduces dampness

Overview

This modern adaptation of a traditional formula, Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang, blends qi-enhancing herbs with digestive aids. The foundation includes the Four Gentlemen: ginseng (ren shen), Atractylodes (bai zhu), Poria (fu ling), and Chinese licorice (zhi gan cao). These herbs are central to many remedies addressing qi deficiency in the lungs and spleen, often presenting as fatigue, breathlessness, pallor, poor appetite, indigestion, and diarrhea.

By adding citrus peel (chen pi) and Pinellia rhizome (ban xia), the formula evolves into Six Gentlemen, better suited for acute digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Including Saussurea (mu xiang) and cardamon (sha ren) further enhances its effectiveness in addressing digestive weakness and discomfort. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who are pale, weak, and qi-deficient with associated digestive issues.

Manufacturer: Lanzhou Foci

Dosage: Take 8 to 16 pills three times daily before meals

Chinese medicines effectively address a range of digestive issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. Refer to this article for trusted remedies the next time you experience digestive discomfort.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Bill Schoenbart holds certifications in herbal medicine and acupuncture, along with a Master's degree in Chinese medicine. He serves as the editor of The Way of Chinese Herbs and Biomagnetic and Herbal Therapy.

Ellen Shefi is a certified massage therapist, licensed acupuncturist, and registered dietitian. She is an active member of the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, the American Herb Association, and the Oregon Acupuncture Association.