Chronic Constipation - Blood Deficiency Constipation Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for chronic constipation
Chronic Constipation · Blood Deficiency Constipation Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Abdomen
Pattern Overview
Blood Deficiency Constipation is a common pattern in chronic
constipation, characterized by **reduced intestinal mucus secretion, dry
stools, pale complexion, and dizziness**. The core pathogenesis is
Blood deficiency failing to moisten the intestines, leading to dry
stools, poor lubrication, and difficult defecation.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
complexion |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
skin, pale lips |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
and weak pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
|
| Etiology |
|---|
postpartum, aging |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Xuehai (SP10) | On the medial thigh, 2 cun above the patella |
|---|
Nourishes Blood and invigorates circulation |
| Sanyinjiao (SP6) | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
Blood and Yin; regulates the Spleen and Kidney |
| Tianshu (ST25) | 2 cun lateral to the umbilicus |
|---|
of Large Intestine; regulates bowel function |
| Zusanli (ST36) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Strengthens Spleen and Stomach; tonifies Qi and
Blood |
| Zhigou (TE6) |
|---|
| Treats constipation and regulates the Triple Energizer |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reinforcing method;
moxibustion may be applied to Xuehai and Sanyinjiao to nourish Blood.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Run Chang Wan (润肠丸)
Composition:
Angelica (Dang Gui), Rehmannia (Sheng Di), Hemp Seed (Huo Ma Ren), Peach
Kernel (Tao Ren), Immature Bitter Orange (Zhi Ke)
Action: Nourishes Blood, moistens the intestines, and promotes bowel
movement.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe dry stools |
|---|
the intestines |
| Pale complexion | Add Shu Di, Bai Shao to nourish Blood |
|---|
| Dizziness |
|---|
eyes |
| Poor sleep | Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Reduced intestinal mucus secretion leading to decreased lubrication,
difficult stool passage, and slow transit. Blood Deficiency Constipation
corresponds to constipation with reduced mucus secretion, often seen in
elderly patients, postpartum women, or those with iron deficiency
anemia.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Constipation with Blood Deficiency
Constipation.
2. DB-XJB: Si Wu Tang, Ma Zi Ren Wan.
3. WHO. (2023). Digestive health. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for digestive
health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM digestive health.
Related TCM Patterns for Chronic Constipation
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.