Can traditional Chinese medicine treat gallbladder polyps?
Nov 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
For gallbladder polyps smaller than 1 cm in diameter, growing slowly, and not accompanied by discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain or nausea, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) applies treatment based on individual constitution and syndrome differentiation. Herbal remedies aimed at soothing the liver, promoting bile secretion, activating blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, and softening hardness to dissipate nodules are used to help improve gallbladder function, alleviate local inflammation, and slow down polyp growth. In some cases, this approach can stabilize the polyp and prevent further enlargement.
In general, when gallbladder polyps are small, asymptomatic, and show no signs of malignant transformation, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may help regulate and control the condition. However, TCM alone is not recommended if the polyps are large, have potential for malignancy, or cause severe symptoms. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
For gallbladder polyps less than 1 cm in diameter, growing slowly, and not causing discomfort such as abdominal pain or nausea, TCM treatment is based on individual body constitution and syndrome differentiation. Therapies typically involve herbal formulas that soothe the liver, promote bile secretion, invigorate blood circulation, remove blood stasis, and soften hardness to resolve nodules. These approaches aim to improve gallbladder function, alleviate local inflammation, and slow down polyp growth. In some cases, this can stabilize the polyp size and prevent further enlargement. This conservative approach suits patients without urgent indications for surgery who wish to manage their condition non-invasively, provided they adhere to long-term treatment and regular follow-up examinations.
If a gallbladder polyp exceeds 1 cm in diameter, grows rapidly over a short period, or is accompanied by significant symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or indigestion—or if tests suggest possible malignancy—TCM treatment alone is unlikely to effectively eliminate the polyp or control associated risks. In such cases, surgical intervention according to Western medical principles should be prioritized to avoid disease progression. Additionally, when multiple polyps are present, or when there is coexisting gallstones or gallbladder atrophy, the effectiveness of TCM alone is limited. A comprehensive treatment plan incorporating Western medical evaluation is therefore necessary.
During treatment, patients must strictly follow professional medical guidance and should not self-medicate or discontinue treatment without consultation. If symptoms worsen or test results become abnormal, the treatment plan should be adjusted promptly, and surgical intervention should be considered when necessary.
