Understanding Constipation: A Chinese and Western Medicine Perspective

Restoring Natural Bowel Movement the Holistic Way

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints, affecting people of all ages. It refers to infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements, often accompanied by bloating, discomfort, or a sense of heaviness.While over-the-counter laxatives may offer temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a gentle, personalized approach that focuses on balancing internal organ systems, regulating digestion, and restoring the natural rhythm of elimination.

🔹 What Is Constipation?

In Western medicine, constipation is typically defined as:

Fewer than three bowel movements per weekStraining or difficulty passing stoolHard, dry, or lumpy stoolsA feeling of incomplete evacuation

Common causes include poor diet (low fiber or water), inactivity, stress, medications, IBS, thyroid issues, or structural blockages.

🔹 How TCM Understands Constipation

In TCM, constipation is seen as a disruption of Qi and fluid movement in the intestines, often related to the Lung, Spleen, Liver, and Large Intestine systems. The root patterns vary and include:

Heat in the Stomach and Intestines → Dry, hard stools; bad breath; red face; thirst; yellow tongue coating

Qi Stagnation (often Liver-related) → Bloating, irritability, alternating constipation and diarrhea, stress-induced symptoms

Qi Deficiency (especially Spleen or Lung) → Weakness during bowel movements, fatigue, shortness of breath, pale tongue

Blood or Yin Deficiency → Dry stools, dizziness, dry mouth and skin, thin or pale body type

Cold in the Intestines → Abdominal pain relieved by warmth, feeling cold, preference for warm drinks and foods

Unlike a one-size-fits-all laxative, TCM treats constipation based on the individual pattern and constitution.

🌿 TCM Treatments for Constipation

✅ Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps:

Stimulate peristalsis and intestinal motilityRegulate Qi flow in the abdomenReduce stress and emotional tension that affect digestionBalance the Liver and Spleen to support healthy elimination

✅ Herbal Medicine

Herbal formulas are customized to your unique pattern. They may:

Moisten the intestines and soften stool (for dry-type constipation)Clear heat and move stagnationTonify Qi and strengthen the Spleen/LungsWarm the interior and expel cold

✅ Diet & Lifestyle Guidance

TCM emphasizes food as part of therapy. Recommendations may include:

Drinking warm water regularly (especially in the morning)

Eating more cooked vegetables, soups, and grains like oats or millet

Avoiding cold/raw foods and excessive caffeineEstablishing a regular routine for meals and bathroom habits

Managing stress through gentle exercise, breathing, or tai chi

✅ ZiQia Self-Consistent Medicine System

At our clinic, we incorporate the ZiQia System developed by Dr. Pan Xiaochuan. Using pulse-based diagnosis and customized morning/evening formulas, we help:

Promote healthy bowel movement rhythmSupport Qi and fluid movementAddress both the symptom and root imbalance

💬 Relief That Lasts

Constipation is not just a minor inconvenience—it reflects deeper digestive imbalances. Chinese medicine offers a natural, sustainable approach to restore bowel function without relying on habit-forming laxatives.Whether you experience occasional constipation or struggle with chronic, long-term issues, we’re here to help your body return to its natural flow—gently, effectively, and holistically.