Obesity - Stomach Heat with Dampness Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for obesity with Stomach
Obesity · Stomach Heat with Dampness Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Whole Body
Pattern Overview
Stomach Heat with Dampness is a common pattern in obesity, characterized
by **leptin resistance, excessive appetite, abdominal obesity,
constipation, and thirst. The core pathogenesis is Stomach Heat
consuming fluids**, leading to excessive appetite, increased fat
synthesis, and metabolic dysfunction.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
constipation, thirst |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
yellow urine |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
and rapid pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
appetite |
| Etiology |
|---|
sedentary lifestyle |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Zhongwan (RN12) | 4 cun above the umbilicus |
|---|
Stomach; harmonizes the Stomach |
| Neiting (ST44) | Between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones |
|---|
point of Stomach; clears Stomach Heat |
| Quchi (LI11) | Lateral end of the elbow crease |
|---|
Large Intestine; clears Heat |
| Fenglong (ST40) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Transforms Phlegm and Dampness |
| Shangjuxu (ST37) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Lower He-Sea point of Large Intestine; regulates
digestion |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; may
combine with auricular acupuncture for appetite suppression.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang (防己黄芪汤) + Xie Huang San
(泻黄散)
Composition:
Stephania (Fang Ji), Astragalus (Huang Qi), Gypsum (Shi Gao), Gardenia
(Zhi Zi), Agastache (Huo Xiang), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Clears Stomach Heat, drains Dampness, and suppresses
appetite.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Excessive appetite | Add Huang Lian, Huang Qin to clear Stomach Heat |
|---|
| Constipation | Add Da Huang to drain heat |
|---|
| Abdominal obesity | Add Ze Xie, Che Qian Zi to promote diuresis |
|---|
| Thirst | Add Tian Hua Fen, Ge Gen to generate fluids |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Leptin resistance and appetite dysregulation causing excessive food
intake, increased fat synthesis, and metabolic syndrome. Stomach Heat
with Dampness corresponds to obesity with hyperphagia and metabolic
dysfunction, where leptin resistance and appetite dysregulation
contribute to excessive food intake and weight gain.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Obesity with Stomach Heat and Fire
Depression.
2. WHO. (2023). Obesity fact sheet. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for metabolic
health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM obesity management.
Related TCM Patterns for Obesity
- Spleen Deficiency with Phlegm-Dampness
- Liver-Qi Stagnation
- Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency
- Yin Deficiency with Internal Heat
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.