Hypothyroidism - Phlegm-Dampness Internal Obstruction Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for hypothyroidism with
Hypothyroidism · Phlegm-Dampness Internal Obstruction Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Whole Body
Pattern Overview
Phlegm-Dampness Internal Obstruction is a common pattern in
hypothyroidism, characterized by **glycosaminoglycan deposition,
myxedema, heavy sensation, sticky mouth, and fluid retention**. The core
pathogenesis is accumulation of Phlegm-Dampness in the body due to
impaired Spleen transformation, leading to interstitial fluid retention
and myxedema.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
mouth, weight gain |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
loose stools |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
coating, slippery pulse |
| Pathogenesis | Phlegm-Dampness accumulating in the body |
|---|
| Etiology |
|---|
hypothyroidism |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Fenglong (ST40) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Transforms Phlegm and Dampness |
| Pishu (BL20) | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T11 |
|---|
of Spleen meridian; strengthens Spleen Qi |
| Zhongwan (RN12) | 4 cun above the umbilicus |
|---|
Stomach; harmonizes the Stomach |
| Yinlingquan (SP9) | Below the medial condyle of the tibia |
|---|
Transforms Dampness and promotes diuresis |
| Zusanli (ST36) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Strengthens Spleen and Stomach; tonifies Qi |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, even method; moxibustion
may be applied to Pishu and Zhongwan to strengthen Spleen and transform
Dampness.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Er Chen Tang (二陈汤) + Wu Ling San (五苓散)
Composition:
Pinellia (Ban Xia), Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Poria (Fu Ling),
Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Alisma (Ze Xie), Polyporus (Zhu Ling), Cinnamon
Twig (Gui Zhi), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Transforms Phlegm, drains Dampness, and promotes diuresis.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe myxedema | Add Fu Ling, Zhu Ling to promote diuresis |
|---|
| Heavy sensation | Add Huo Xiang, Pei Lan to transform Dampness |
|---|
| Sticky mouth | Add Cang Zhu, Hou Po to dry Dampness |
|---|
| Chest tightness |
|---|
distension |
Western Mechanism Reference
Glycosaminoglycan deposition causing interstitial fluid retention,
myxedema, and serous cavity effusions. Phlegm-Dampness Internal
Obstruction corresponds to hypothyroidism with myxedema and fluid
retention, where glycosaminoglycan accumulation and reduced metabolism
contribute to interstitial fluid retention.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Phlegm-Fluid with Phlegm-Dampness.
2. DB-XJB: Er Chen Tang.
3. WHO. (2023). Thyroid disorders. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for thyroid health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM endocrine 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.