Liver Qi Stagnation Herbs

In traditional Chinese medicine, illnesses may be grouped together into disease patterns, or "disharmonies." One pattern caused by an excess of life energy, or qi, on the liver meridian is called liver qi stagnation. Liver qi stagnation is marked by abdominal distention, sighing, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite and diarrhea. Psychiatric symptoms may include depression, moodiness and decreased energy levels. Women may also experience breast tenderness and painful or irregular menstruation. A characteristic sharp discomfort below the floating ribs, known as hypochondriac pain, is another common symptom. The herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine to address liver qi stagnation may interact with pharmaceutical drugs. For this reason, talk to your doctor before taking any herbs.

Dang Gui

Also spelled dong quai, dang gui is a member of the angelica family and is used to treat liver conditions in European, North American and Chinese herbal medical traditions. Dang gui is also used for menstrual irregularities. The herb is often recommended when liver qi stagnation is characterized by fatigue, weakness or debility. Both men and women are reputed to benefit from using this herb for liver qi stagnation.

Bai Shao

Bai shao, sometimes translated as "white peony," is used as a general blood purifier and an invigorating agent for the liver meridian. It purportedly normalizes and smooths liver qi. Bai shao is also considered to be a nourishing herb that helps with menstrual irregularities due to deficiencies. It is particularly recommended when pain accompanies liver qi stagnation.

Xiao Hu Xiang

Xiao hu xiang, commonly known as dried fennel seed, is well-known in the West for its use in easing digestive discomfort. Many formulations for treating liver qi stagnation include xiao hu xiang in them. This may, in part, be due to the phytoestrogens it contains, which may have also an effect on women's reproductive health.

Yellow Dock

Yellow dock is used in traditional Chinese and Western schools of herbal medicine for its nutritive and liver cleansing qualities. A rich source of dietary iron, yellow dock is recommended by Western herbalists as a treatment for anemia. Both schools believe the herb is an effective bitter digestive tonic, stimulating digestion by increasing the excretion of bile.