Chronic Constipation - Qi Deficiency Constipation Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for chronic constipation
Chronic Constipation · Qi Deficiency Constipation Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Abdomen
Pattern Overview
Qi Deficiency Constipation is a common pattern in chronic constipation,
characterized by **weak abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, difficulty
defecating, fatigue, and shortness of breath**. The core pathogenesis is
**Spleen and Lung Qi deficiency failing to generate sufficient
defecatory force**, leading to weak bowel movements and slow-transit
constipation.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
fatigue |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
pale complexion, poor appetite |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
and weak pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
defecatory force |
| Etiology |
|---|
weakness, aging |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Qihai (RN6) | 1.5 cun below the umbilicus |
|---|
strengthens the body |
| Zusanli (ST36) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Strengthens Spleen and Stomach; tonifies Qi |
| Tianshu (ST25) | 2 cun lateral to the umbilicus |
|---|
of Large Intestine; regulates bowel function |
| Pishu (BL20) | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T11 |
|---|
of Spleen meridian; strengthens Spleen Qi |
| Zhigou (TE6) |
|---|
| Treats constipation and regulates the Triple Energizer |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reinforcing method;
moxibustion may be applied to Qihai and Zusanli to warm and tonify Qi.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Huang Qi Tang (黄芪汤)
Composition:
Astragalus (Huang Qi), Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Hemp Seed (Huo Ma Ren),
Honey (Bai Mi)
Action: Supplements Qi, lifts Yang, and moistens the intestines.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe fatigue |
|---|
supplementation |
| Weak bowel movements | Add Sheng Ma, Chai Hu to lift Yang |
|---|
| Dry stools | Add Huo Ma Ren, Yu Li Ren to moisten the intestines |
|---|
| Poor appetite | Add Sha Ren, Mu Xiang to harmonize the Stomach |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Weak abdominal and pelvic floor muscles causing reduced defecatory
force, and slow-transit constipation. Qi Deficiency Constipation
corresponds to constipation with weak defecatory force, often seen in
elderly or debilitated patients where reduced muscle strength and slow
colonic transit contribute to constipation.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Constipation with Qi Deficiency
Constipation.
2. DB-XJB: Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang.
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.
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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.