Causes of Abdominal Pain and Ancient Healing Remedies

From acupressure to herbal medicine, TCM has relied on ancient remedies for digestive health for centuries.

Abdominal pain has various causes, and TCM offers effective relief and preventive measures for different types. Ahmet Misirligul/Shutterstock

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a range of effective treatments and preventive measures for abdominal pain, including self-massage, acupressure, and herbal remedies.

Abdominal pain can have various causes, making it important to distinguish between upper and lower abdominal pain. Upper abdominal pain is often linked to digestive discomfort, while lower abdominal pain may be caused by issues with the uterus, ovaries, or appendix, as well as conditions like constipation, diarrhea, or appendicitis. Among these, appendicitis, diarrhea, and constipation are relatively common, and TCM provides effective relief options for these conditions.

1-Minute Massage to Relieve Constipation

Constipation can sometimes cause significant abdominal pain due to stool buildup. In many cases, relieving the constipation also alleviates the pain.

To address constipation, some people eat fruit to promote bowel movements. However, for many, dietary changes alone are not enough. A simple yet effective solution is drinking a warm glass of water in the morning, which can help ease constipation. Additionally, an abdominal massage can further support smooth bowel movements.

How to Perform Abdominal Massage

Before starting, apply a small amount of lotion or glycerin to your palms for lubrication. Then, gently massage the abdomen following the path of the colon:

1. Begin at the ascending colon on the lower right side of the abdomen. Press gently, then massage in circular motions. Move gradually upward, repeating this press-and-massage technique.
2. When you reach the transverse colon (just below the ribcage), massage horizontally across the abdomen.
3. As you reach the descending colon on the left side, press and massage downward toward the lower abdomen.

Each session should last about one minute and be repeated three to four times. This massage helps move stool toward the lower part of the colon, making bowel movements easier.

TCM Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

While abdominal pain is often caused by constipation or diarrhea, frequent alternation between the two may indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)—a condition in which stress and anxiety disrupt digestive function.

Herbal Remedies for IBS

Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan is a common TCM formula used to treat IBS by calming the mind and nourishing the heart, which in turn regulates digestion and alleviates both constipation and diarrhea.

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A 2015 meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials found that TCM formulas were more effective than placebos or conventional medicines in improving IBS symptoms. Additionally, TCM formulas generally have a good safety profile and are well tolerated.

Acupressure for IBS Relief

Location of the Tianshu acupoint. The Epoch Times

Stimulating the Tianshu acupoint can help regulate the intestines. Tianshu is the “Mu Point” of the large intestine meridian, a key acupoint for intestinal health. Stimulating it can relieve diarrhea and promote regular bowel movements.

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials showed that acupuncture can reduce IBS symptom severity, alleviate abdominal pain, and improve quality of life.

Abdominal Pain Caused by Appendicitis

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix, a small, finger-like pouch attached to the lower end of the cecum, becomes inflamed.

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This inflammation is usually triggered by a blockage, often caused by hardened stool, swollen lymphoid tissue, or, in rare cases, foreign matter. As a result, infection can develop, leading to severe pain.

How to Identify Appendicitis Pain

The pain caused by appendicitis differs from that caused by diarrhea or constipation and can often be identified through a simple pressure test. The appendix is located in the lower right abdomen, slightly below the navel. Pressing on this area may not be particularly painful, but when the pressure is suddenly released, a sharp, intense pain often follows. This rebound tenderness is commonly associated with appendicitis.

In TCM, appendicitis is referred to as “intestinal abscess,” a condition associated with infection and pus accumulation in the intestines.

TCM Treatments for Appendicitis

Depending on the severity, TCM offers various treatment methods to help manage the condition:

Acupressure

Location of the Zusanli acupoint. The Epoch Times

Location of the Lanwei acupoint. The Epoch Times

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The Lanwei acupoint, also known as the “Appendix” point, is located on the lower legs. Stimulating this acupoint may help relieve pain and is commonly used in TCM to support the treatment of acute and chronic appendicitis as well as enteritis or inflammation of the intestines.

This acupoint is located approximately two finger widths below the Zusanli acupoint, as shown in the diagram above.

Herbal Formulas

In TCM, diagnosis is typically based on pulse examination and a symptom assessment to determine whether a condition is categorized as “excess” or “deficiency.”

For example, if symptoms result from consuming too much spicy or grilled food, the heat generated in the body is considered “excess heat” since it comes from external factors. In contrast, “deficiency heat” is caused by insufficient bodily fluids, leading to internal heat.

Generally, acute appendicitis is classified as an excess condition and is treated using purging methods to clear excess heat and toxins from the body.

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1. Dahuang-Mudan Decoction (Rhubarb Peony Decoction)

The TCM formula Dahuang-Mudan decoction is used to purge the intestines, removing solid waste and inflammatory substances. This formula can help relieve appendicitis symptoms by clearing heat and reducing stagnation.

A retrospective study found that intravenous antibiotic therapy combined with Dahuang-Mudan decoction was highly effective and safe in treating periappendiceal abscesses (pus-filled cavities around the appendix) in children.

2. Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang San

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Chronic appendicitis can cause symptoms such as fever and chills. The classic TCM formula Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang San is traditionally used to warm the body, dispel cold, and aid in treating chronic appendicitis.

A 2023 study involving 284 colorectal cancer patients with an immune-inflamed phenotype found that Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang San helped reduce inflammation and activate the immune response.

Potential Downsides of Appendix Removal

Currently, surgical removal of the appendix is the most common treatment for appendicitis. However, every part of the body serves a purpose, and its removal should not be taken lightly.

The cecum, the first section of the large intestine, plays roles beyond digestion. In addition to absorbing electrolytes and water, it serves as a hub for microbial activity. The gut microbiome here ferments dietary fiber—indigestible by the small intestine—producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs are crucial for overall health, providing anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating benefits.

Best Practices for Digestion After Meals

Exercise is essential for overall health, but engaging in intense physical activity immediately after eating may cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating or indigestion. For both children and adults, light activities such as reading or casual conversation are recommended after meals to allow proper digestion.

Some herbs mentioned in this article may be unfamiliar, but they are generally available in health food stores and Asian grocery stores. However, treatments may vary for different people, so it’s best to consult with a health care professional for personalized guidance.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.