What are the methods of traditional Chinese medicine for treating gallstones

Traditional Chinese medicine treatment of gallstones mainly includes Chinese medicine conditioning, acupuncture and moxibustion therapy, ear point pressing beans, massage, diet regulation, etc. Gallstones may be related to factors such as damp heat in the liver and gallbladder, qi stagnation and blood stasis, and are usually manifested as symptoms such as upper right abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulation

Traditional Chinese medicine commonly uses formulas for soothing the liver and promoting bile flow, clearing heat and removing stones to treat gallstones. For example, Da Chai Hu Tang can alleviate the pain and bitterness associated with liver and gallbladder stagnation type gallstones, Jin Qian Cao granules can help promote bile excretion, and Dan Ning tablets can improve biliary stasis. The prescription should be adjusted by a TCM doctor after syndrome differentiation to avoid self medication.

2. acupuncture and moxibustion therapy

Acupuncture is performed at Danshu, Riyue, Yanglingquan and other acupoints to relieve biliary colic by regulating the qi mechanism of liver and gallbladder meridians. For sediment like stones, electroacupuncture stimulation can enhance gallbladder contraction function. During the acute attack period, western medicine should be combined to avoid relying solely on acupuncture and moxibustion.

3. Ear acupressure

Apply Wangbuliuxing seeds to the reflex areas of the ear, liver, gallbladder, sympathetic system, etc., to regulate bile secretion through continuous stimulation. This method is suitable for patients with small stones in the quiescent phase and requires 3-5 compressions per day to maintain effectiveness. However, it is not recommended to use stones with a diameter exceeding 10 millimeters alone.

4. Massage

Using acupoints on the gallbladder meridian combined with rib massage can improve smooth muscle spasms in the biliary tract. For abdominal distension caused by qi stagnation gallstones, clockwise rubbing of the abdomen can promote bile flow. Abdominal manipulation is prohibited when combined with acute cholecystitis or bile duct obstruction.

5. Dietary regulation

Limit high-fat and high cholesterol foods, and consume moderate amounts of choleretic ingredients such as hawthorn and corn whiskers. Those with damp heat constitution can drink Artemisia scoparia tea, and those with spleen stomach deficiency and cold should use Poria Congee to strengthen the spleen. Maintaining a daily water intake of at least 2000 milliliters can help prevent bile concentration. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment should be based on the size of the stone and the staging of symptoms. For patients with a diameter exceeding 15 millimeters or recurrent infections, it is recommended to combine Western medicine treatment. Regular daily routines should be maintained to avoid overexertion and emotional fluctuations. Ultrasound monitoring of stone changes should be conducted every 3-6 months. During the attack period, avoid eating greasy, spicy, and stimulating foods. During the rest period, gradually increase low-intensity exercise such as Ba Duan Jin to clear the qi flow.