mài mén dōng tāng is used for patterns with
stomach yin xu heat leading to lung yin xu, stomach and lung yin xu, dry lung atrophy, blazing stomach fire
symptoms indicating the use of mài mén dōng tāng
coughing with little yellow sputum, spitting saliva, wheezing, shortness of breath, dry and uncomfortable sensation in the throat, hoarseness, dry mouth, belching, hiccups, acidity, thirst but can only drink small sips, nausea, vomiting, asthma, flushed face, five heart heat, scanty urination.
western interpretation of mài mén dōng tāng
gastritis, peptic ulcer, esophageal reflux, esophageal cancer, acute or chronic pharyngitis, chronic laryngitis, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, pulmonary tuberculosis, pneumonia, pertussis, emphysema, lung cancer, asthma, copd, sjögren’s syndrome, chronic gastroenteritis, morning sickness, oliguria, bad breath, hard time with white wine.
explanation of the mechanism
this is a form of lung atrophy (fèi wěi). although the symptoms are primarily related to the lungs, the condition is actually caused by heat from deficiency in the stomach, which rises in rebellion and scorches the lung yin. it may also be understood by reference to the theory of the five phases, wherein the ‘mother’ (stomach) transmits the problem to the ‘child’ (lungs).
the lungs are the most delicate of the yin organs and serve as a canopy for the trunk. they depend on the earth (spleen/stomach) for nourishment and for some of its fluids. if, over an extended period of time, the lungs do not receive proper nourishment or moisture, they shrivel up or ‘atrophy.’
the rebellious qi from the stomach prevents the lung qi from descending properly, and results in coughing and wheezing. the scorching of the lung yin causes shortness of breath and depletes the fluids. the depletion of the fluids leaves only saliva or a thick, viscous sputum that becomes lodged in the throat and causes a dry, uncomfortable sensation. the dry mouth, and the tongue and pulse signs, are classic indications of heat from deficiency leading to internal dryness.
(bensky & barolet)
important note: if you experience symptoms that resemble the ones presented in the tcm pocketguide please consult a medical doctor or tcm therapist. these prescriptions are not meant for self-medication and should only be prescribed by a licensed tcm practitioner. of course you can also book a consultation with me. i would be pleased to welcome you.
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