What is the traditional Chinese medicine perspective on breast nodules?
Sep 20, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Dapeng
Introduction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has demonstrated certain therapeutic effects and advantages in treating breast nodules. In TCM theory, breast nodules are referred to as "ru he" (mammary masses) and are generally believed to be associated with dysfunction of the liver, particularly factors such as impaired liver coursing and diffusing function and liver qi stagnation, which easily lead to the development of breast nodules. Treatment methods commonly include oral administration of herbal medicines, external application of herbal formulas, acupuncture therapy, tuina (therapeutic massage), and dietary therapy.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has demonstrated certain therapeutic effects and advantages in treating breast nodules. In TCM theory, breast nodules are known as "ru he" (mammary masses), and are generally believed to be associated with dysfunction of the liver, particularly factors such as impaired liver course regulation and stagnation of liver qi, which can easily lead to the formation of breast nodules. Treatment options commonly include oral herbal medicine, external herbal application, acupuncture therapy, massage (tuina) therapy, and dietary therapy. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Oral Herbal Therapy
For breast nodules caused by stagnation of liver qi, formulas such as Xiaoyao San may be used to soothe the liver, regulate qi, resolve phlegm, and dissipate nodules. For cases due to yin deficiency of the liver and kidneys, Liuwei Dihuang Wan may be prescribed to nourish the liver and kidneys. In cases where phlegm and blood stasis intermingle, Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang or Tao Hong Si Wu Tang may be used to help resolve nodules. It is important to take these medications under the guidance of a qualified physician to ensure safety and effectiveness.
2. External Herbal Application
This method involves applying herbal medicines—prepared as ointments or powders—that promote blood circulation, resolve stasis, reduce swelling, and dissipate nodules directly onto the affected area. Commonly used agents include Ruyi Jinhuang San, Sanjie Zhitong Gao (Nodule-Resolving and Pain-Relieving Plaster), and mirabilite (Glauber's salt). These applications help improve local blood circulation, accelerate nodule resolution, and achieve effects of activating blood flow, unblocking meridians, reducing swelling, and dispersing nodules.
3. Acupuncture Therapy
Core principle: By stimulating specific acupoints—such as CV17 (Shanzhong), ST18 (Rugen), LR14 (Qimen), ST36 (Zusanli), and LR3 (Taichong)—acupuncture promotes the flow of qi and blood, thereby unblocking meridians and resolving swelling and nodules.
4. Massage (Tuina) Therapy
Core principle: Using techniques such as kneading and massaging, this therapy targets acupoints and meridians around the breast, including CV17 (Ruzhong), PC1 (Tianchi), and ST16 (Yingchuang), to enhance blood circulation in surrounding breast tissues, helping to relieve pain and discomfort caused by nodules.
5. Dietary Therapy
Adjusting dietary habits is essential. Patients should consume more foods rich in vitamins and protein, while avoiding spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods. Recommended foods with nodule-dissolving properties include kelp, loofah, seaweed, and radish. Maintaining a diet low in salt, fat, and cholesterol is beneficial for recovery.
In addition to treatment, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, engage in moderate exercise, and improve overall physical health.
