Blood stasis (xue yu, 血瘀) is a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It refers to impaired blood circulation that leads to blood becoming stagnant in specific areas of the body, obstructing meridians, disrupting the flow of energy (qi), and affecting organ function. Blood stasis is considered one of the “pathological products” in TCM, alongside water retention and phlegm.
A Distinct Concept from Western Medicine
It is important to note that blood stasis in TCM is entirely different from any concept in Western medicine. Many forms of blood stasis cannot be detected or treated using Western medical methods, such as imaging or blood tests. Despite this, blood stasis plays a crucial role in TCM and is believed to have a significant impact on overall health. Failing to address it can lead to persistent symptoms or chronic illnesses, even if no abnormalities are identified through Western diagnostic tools.
The Role of Diagnosis Skills in Blood Stasis
Diagnosing blood stasis requires specific methods and skills, including pulse diagnosis, tongue observation, and the ability to recognize subtle signs and symptoms that indicate stagnation. These diagnostic tools help identify both visible and invisible forms of blood stasis. However, blood stasis is often overlooked or underdiagnosed, even by some TCM practitioners. This can result in delayed treatment and missed opportunities to address the root cause of various chronic and complex conditions. Therefore, recognizing and addressing blood stasis is not only a skill but also a critical aspect of effective TCM practice.
Manifestations of Blood Stasis
Blood stasis can present in both visible and invisible forms:
- Visible signs:
- Purple-black, twisted veins on the skin.
- Dark purple spots or discoloration on the tongue or face.
- Menstrual blood with clots.
- Swollen or twisted sublingual veins (under the tongue).
- Rough, dry, or discolored skin, especially on the calves.
- Palpable signs:
- Fixed, stabbing pain in certain areas of the body.
- Pressing pain or sensitivity in the abdomen.
- Invisible signs:
- Stiffness or fullness in the lower abdomen.
- Emotional disturbances, such as irritability, mania, or depression.
- Unexplained low-grade fever, night sweats, or abnormal sweating.
- Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), acne, cracked heels, or unilateral symptoms (e.g., pain or disease affecting only one side of the body).
In TCM, blood stasis is often linked to serious conditions such as tumors (zheng jia, 癥瘕), gynecological disorders, and strokes. In Western terms, it might loosely correlate with conditions involving poor circulation, chronic inflammation, or vascular issues, but the overlap is limited and should not be directly equated.
Treatment Principles
Treating blood stasis in TCM focuses on improving circulation and removing stagnation. Since blood stasis often signifies deeply rooted imbalances, treatment requires persistence and may involve a combination of methods:
- Gynecological conditions: Blood stasis affecting menstrual health typically improves over several physiological cycles with treatment.
- Chronic stasis: Long-standing stagnation caused by “dry blood” (chronic poor circulation) can be challenging and requires sustained care and regular adjustments.
Outcomes of Treatment
When blood stasis is resolved, patients often experience significant improvements:
- Pain and stiffness decrease or disappear.
- Complexion becomes brighter and healthier.
- Energy levels and overall vitality improve as circulation and qi flow are restored.
By addressing blood stasis, TCM seeks not only to relieve symptoms but also to resolve the root causes of imbalance. This comprehensive and preventive approach underscores TCM’s unique perspective on health and disease. However, accurate diagnosis and proper treatment planning are essential, highlighting the importance of a skilled practitioner who can effectively identify and address blood stasis in its various forms.
