PMS - Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for PMS with Liver-Qi
PMS · Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Pelvis
Pattern Overview
Liver-Qi Stagnation is the most common pattern in PMS, characterized by
**luteal phase estrogen-progesterone imbalance, irritability, breast
tenderness, bloating, and mood swings**. The core pathogenesis is
luteal phase hormonal fluctuations causing Liver-Qi stagnation,
leading to emotional symptoms, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
swings |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
depression, premenstrual headache |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
stagnation |
| Etiology | Hormonal changes, chronic stress, emotional distress |
|---|
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Ganshu (BL18) | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T9 |
|---|
of Liver meridian; soothes Liver-Qi |
| Taichong (LR3) |
|---|
metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; soothes Liver-Qi |
| Qimen (LR14) |
|---|
the nipple | Front-Mu point of Liver meridian; regulates Liver-Qi |
| Neiguan (PC6) |
|---|
| Relieves chest tightness and calms the spirit |
| Sanyinjiao (SP6) | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
menstruation and harmonizes Liver and Spleen |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; combine
with stress reduction techniques. Treatment is most effective when
started 1-2 weeks before menstruation.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Xiao Yao San (逍遥散) or Chai Hu Shu Gan San
(柴胡疏肝散)
Composition:
Bupleurum (Chai Hu), White Peony (Bai Shao), Angelica (Dang Gui),
Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), Cyperus (Xiang Fu), Mint (Bo
He), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Soothes Liver-Qi, nourishes Blood, and regulates
menstruation.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe breast tenderness |
|---|
|
| Bloating |
|---|
|
| Depression | Add Yu Jin, He Huan Pi to relieve depression |
|---|
| Insomnia | Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Luteal phase estrogen-progesterone imbalance with abnormal E2/P ratio,
aldosterone elevation causing water and sodium retention. Liver-Qi
Stagnation corresponds to PMS with prominent emotional and physical
symptoms, where hormonal fluctuations and aldosterone elevation
contribute to mood changes and fluid retention.
References
1. Gynecology of TCM - PMS with Liver Depression.
2. Xiong Jibai: Liver Depression uses Chai Hu Shu Gan San.
3. WHO. (2023). Women's health. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for women's health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM gynecology.
Related TCM Patterns for Pms
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.