Can atrophic gastritis be cured by traditional Chinese medicine?
Dec 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) cannot completely cure atrophic gastritis, but it can effectively control symptoms and slow disease progression. The specific outcomes depend on the severity of the condition. If the disease is in the early stage with mild symptoms, TCM regulation tends to produce more noticeable effects; however, for more severe cases, comprehensive interventions are required. During treatment, the principle of syndrome differentiation should be followed, medications must be taken strictly as prescribed, and patients should maintain a light diet and regular daily routine.
In general, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) cannot completely cure atrophic gastritis, but it can effectively control symptoms and slow disease progression. The specific effectiveness depends on the severity of the condition. If the disease is in its early stage with mild symptoms, TCM regulation tends to yield more noticeable results; however, for more severe cases, comprehensive interventions combining multiple approaches are required. Detailed analysis is as follows:
According to TCM theory, atrophic gastritis is associated with spleen and stomach deficiency, qi stagnation, blood stasis, phlegm-dampness obstruction, and related factors. In early-stage patients, symptoms such as mild abdominal distension and poor appetite are common. Through syndrome differentiation and treatment using herbal formulas that strengthen the spleen and regulate the stomach, promote qi circulation, and activate blood flow, combined with adjunct therapies like acupuncture and dietary therapy, TCM can improve gastrointestinal function, relieve discomfort, and delay the progression of gastric mucosal atrophy.
For more advanced cases with significant gastric mucosal atrophy or complications such as intestinal metaplasia, TCM alone is unlikely to reverse pathological changes. It is necessary to combine Western medical examinations for ongoing monitoring while using TCM to help reduce symptom recurrence. In these cases, the primary role of TCM is to improve quality of life and prevent further deterioration of the condition.
During treatment, patients must follow the principle of syndrome differentiation and individualized therapy, strictly adhere to medical instructions regarding medication, maintain a light and regular diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, minimize stimulation to the gastric mucosa, and support overall disease stability.
