What are the three major contraindications for Gu Zhang in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
There is no such term as "three major contraindications for TCM drum distention." Contraindications for drum distention in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) include avoiding excessive intake of dampness-inducing foods, avoiding extreme emotional fluctuations, overexertion, misuse of tonic medicines, and strenuous exercise. If symptoms such as worsening abdominal distention, a sudden decrease in urine output, or increased limb edema occur, prompt medical attention is necessary. Avoiding excessive intake of dampness-inducing foods: such foods easily exacerbate retention of dampness in the body.

There is no such term as "three major contraindications for TCM drum distention." Contraindications in TCM drum distention include avoiding excessive intake of dampness-inducing foods, avoiding extreme emotions, overexertion, misuse of tonic medicines, and strenuous exercise. If symptoms such as worsening abdominal distention, sudden decrease in urine output, or increased limb edema occur, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Avoid excessive intake of dampness-inducing foods: Such foods easily exacerbate fluid retention in the body, worsening drum distention. Examples include raw or cold fruits and vegetables, greasy and sweet foods, and pickled products, all of which should be strictly limited.

2. Avoid extreme emotions: Negative emotions such as anger, worry, and excessive thinking can impair liver and spleen function, leading to stagnation of qi and internal accumulation of dampness, thereby aggravating symptoms like abdominal distention and flank pain. It is important to maintain emotional calm and balance.

3. Avoid overexertion: Excessive physical strain depletes vital qi and damages the spleen and kidneys, resulting in impaired transformation and transportation functions and widespread fluid retention, which hinders recovery from drum distention. Sufficient rest must be ensured, and熬夜 (staying up late) or heavy physical labor should be avoided.

4. Avoid misuse of tonic medicines: Blindly taking tonics may cause qi stagnation and worsen abdominal distention. Medication should only be taken under the guidance of a licensed TCM practitioner; self-administered supplementation should be avoided.

5. Avoid strenuous exercise: Intense physical activity may disturb the flow of qi and blood and increase the burden on internal organs, potentially triggering disease progression. Mild exercises such as walking or tai chi are recommended, with gradual progression in intensity.

In daily life, it is essential to follow a low-fat, low-salt diet, eat light and easily digestible meals, maintain regular sleep patterns avoiding late nights, keep emotions stable, and engage in moderate, gentle physical activities to support the recovery of organ function and alleviate symptoms of drum distention.