How does traditional Chinese medicine treat lymph node tuberculosis?
Dec 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment for lymph node tuberculosis emphasizes syndrome differentiation and individualized therapy, generally employing internal administration of Chinese herbal medicine, external application of medicated ointments, acupuncture, acupoint plastering, and dietary regulation. Medications are prescribed according to the patient's constitution and clinical pattern. For instance, formulas that clear heat, resolve phlegm, and dissipate nodules are used for the pattern of intermingled phlegm-heat; warming yang and resolving phlegm formulas are used for the yang deficiency with phlegm stagnation pattern. By regulating visceral functions and eliminating internal phlegm-turbidity, blood stasis, and toxic pathogens, TCM aims to promote the resolution of nodules.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment for lymph node tuberculosis emphasizes syndrome differentiation and individualized therapy, generally involving oral herbal medicine, topical ointments, acupuncture, acupoint application, and dietary regulation. The specific approaches are as follows:
1. Oral Herbal Medicine: Medications are prescribed based on the patient's constitution and clinical pattern differentiation. For example, formulas that clear heat, resolve phlegm, and dissipate nodules are used for the pattern of phlegm-heat intermingling, while warming yang and resolving phlegm formulas are used for the pattern of yang deficiency with phlegm stagnation. These treatments regulate organ function, eliminate internal phlegm-turbidity and stasis-toxins, promote the resolution of nodules, and require full-course administration to consolidate therapeutic effects.
2. Topical Ointments: Herbal medicines with properties of softening hardness, dispersing nodules, reducing swelling, and relieving pain are prepared into ointments and applied directly to areas of enlarged lymph nodes. The medication penetrates through the skin to reach the lesion site, alleviating local swelling and pain, accelerating nodule softening and absorption. Care should be taken to monitor skin reactions and prevent allergic responses.
3. Acupuncture Therapy: Specific acupoints along meridians related to the lymphatic system—such as Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), and Zusanli (ST36)—are selected for needle insertion. This helps regulate the flow of qi and blood in the meridians, enhance immune function, improve local microcirculation, and assist in controlling disease progression. Treatment must be performed by qualified practitioners.
4. Acupoint Application: Herbal preparations are made into patches and applied to specific acupoints, combining the effects of acupoint stimulation and medicinal action to unblock meridians, resolve phlegm, and disperse nodules. This method is suitable for patients who cannot tolerate oral medications or topical ointments. The duration and frequency of application should follow medical advice.
5. Dietary Regulation: Incorporate foods that moisten the lungs, resolve phlegm, strengthen the spleen, and benefit qi, such as Chinese yam, lily bulbs, and lotus seeds. Avoid spicy, greasy, raw, and cold foods. Proper diet helps regulate the body’s yin-yang balance and supports recovery; a consistent and balanced dietary regimen must be maintained over the long term.
When undergoing TCM treatment, patients should seek care at正规 medical institutions under the guidance of qualified practitioners and strictly adhere to the treatment plan. Regular follow-up evaluations are necessary during treatment, along with maintaining regular作息 habits and a positive mindset to support overall recovery.
