Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - Liver Qi Stagnation Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for chronic fatigue
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome · Liver Qi Stagnation Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Whole Body
Pattern Overview
Liver Qi Stagnation is a common pattern in chronic fatigue syndrome,
characterized by **chronic stress-induced fatigue, HPA axis and
autonomic dysfunction, and 5-HT/DA neurotransmitter imbalance**. The
core pathogenesis is **chronic psychological stress causing Liver Qi
stagnation**, leading to Qi obstruction, systemic fatigue, and mood
disturbance.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
tightness, frequent sighing |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
fullness, premenstrual tension |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
obstruction |
| Etiology | Chronic stress, emotional distress, overwork |
|---|
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Taichong (LR3) |
|---|
metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; soothes Liver Qi |
| Ganshu (BL18) | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T9 |
|---|
of Liver meridian; regulates Liver Qi |
| Qimen (LR14) |
|---|
the nipple | Front-Mu point of Liver meridian; treats Qi stagnation |
| Neiguan (PC6) |
|---|
| Relieves chest tightness and regulates Qi |
| Sanyinjiao (SP6) | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
and Blood; harmonizes the Liver and Spleen |
Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; combine
with stress reduction techniques and counseling.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Xiao Yao San (逍遥散)
Composition:
Bupleurum (Chai Hu), Angelica (Dang Gui), White Peony (Bai Shao),
Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), Licorice (Gan Cao), Mint (Bo
He)
Action: Soothes Liver Qi, nourishes Blood, strengthens Spleen, and
relieves depression.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Pronounced depression | Add Yu Jin, He Huan Pi to relieve depression |
|---|
| Insomnia | Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit |
|---|
| Chest tightness | Add Zhi Ke, Xiang Fu to regulate Qi |
|---|
| Irritability | Add Zhi Zi, Dan Pi to clear Heat |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Chronic stress-induced HPA axis and autonomic dysfunction, with 5-HT/DA
neurotransmitter imbalance. Liver Qi Stagnation corresponds to chronic
fatigue with significant affective symptoms, where chronic stress and
HPA axis dysregulation contribute to fatigue and mood disturbance.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Depression with Liver Qi Stagnation.
2. DB-TCMJB: Liver Qi Stagnation.
3. WHO. (2023). Chronic fatigue syndrome fact sheet. World Health
Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for fatigue relief.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM fatigue management.
Related TCM Patterns for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
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.