Chinese Medicine for Constipation
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints and one where traditional Chinese medicine offers genuinely effective, individualised treatment. Unlike laxatives — which produce a mechanical effect without addressing the cause — TCM treatment restores the large intestine's normal function by correcting the underlying pattern. The result is lasting improvement rather than ongoing dependency.
TCM Patterns
Heat in the large intestine — dry, hard stools, thirst, strong odour, abdominal distension. Qi stagnation — difficulty passing stool despite urge, bloating, incomplete evacuation, stress-related. Qi deficiency — insufficient energy to move the bowel, soft stools that are difficult to pass, fatigue, breathlessness. Blood deficiency — dry stools, pallor, fatigue, common postpartum. Yin deficiency — dry stools resembling sheep pellets, dry mouth, afternoon heat.
Treatment
Formulas used include Ma Zi Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Pill) for heat and dryness, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan for yin deficiency, and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang for qi deficiency with sinking. Acupuncture points on the large intestine and stomach meridians regulate motility directly — research confirms improvements in bowel transit time following acupuncture. I prescribe pharmaceutical-grade granules from Sun Ten in Taiwan.
To discuss digestive health, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
