Healthy Recovery: Traditional Chinese Medicine Treats Damp-Heat Syndrome in the Large Intestine
Case Summary: Mr. Luo, a 34-year-old male, experienced recurring abdominal pain for over two years, with symptoms worsening significantly in the past week. He reported frequent bowel movements (3–5 times daily), often with mucus, and relief of pain after defecation. Additional symptoms included fatigue, reduced appetite, anxiety, and insomnia. Upon admission to the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University in October 2021, he underwent physical examination and colonoscopy. The Western diagnosis was chronic colitis, while Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identified it as abdominal pain caused by damp-heat syndrome in the large intestine.
Treatment Plan: A modified Ge Gen Qin Lian Tang formula was prescribed to clear heat, remove dampness, and alleviate diarrhea. The herbal composition included Pueraria root (Ge Gen), Scutellaria root (Huang Qin), Coptis rhizome (Huang Lian), Licorice root (Zhi Gan Cao), Poria (Fu Ling), Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Epimedium leaf (Xian Ling Pi), Agrimony herb (Xian He Cao), Uncaria stem (Gou Teng), Myrrha resin (Wu Ling Zhi), Typhonium rhizome (Pu Huang), Citrus fruit peel (Zhi Ke), Atractylodes lancea (Cang Zhu), Codonopsis root (Dang Shen), and more. The treatment spanned one month, resulting in full symptom remission.
Initial Consultation: Mr. Luo had suffered from intermittent abdominal pain for two years, with recent exacerbation accompanied by diarrhea and mucus-laden stools. His abdomen would hurt severely, especially in the lower region, subsiding only after bowel movement. Despite multiple visits to local clinics, his condition remained unresolved. In the past week, his symptoms worsened—diarrhea increased, and he experienced weight loss, fatigue, poor appetite, bloating, emotional distress, and sleep disturbances. During consultation, he appeared anxious, tired, and exhibited a red tongue with yellow coating, along with a wiry and slippery pulse. His medical history revealed chronic colitis and hemorrhoids confirmed via colonoscopy.
Progressive Treatment: Based on TCM diagnostics, damp-heat accumulation in the large intestine was identified, necessitating a treatment approach focused on clearing internal heat and resolving dampness. Mr. Luo began a customized Ge Gen Qin Lian Tang decoction. After one week, symptoms persisted, prompting the addition of Wu Ling Zhi and Pu Huang to enhance blood circulation and reduce inflammation. By the third week, bowel frequency decreased (2–4 times/day), abdominal pain eased, and mucus lessened. To address gas buildup and lingering discomfort, Zhi Ke and Cang Zhu were introduced. At week four, nighttime rest improved, though loose stools remained. Dang Shen and additional Fu Ling were added to strengthen spleen function and energy levels. By the fifth visit, overall vitality improved, and occasional diarrhea occurred only after dietary indiscretions.
Positive Outcomes: After one month of continuous therapy and two months of follow-up, Mr. Luo no longer experienced abdominal pain or diarrhea. The formula effectively addressed both acute symptoms and underlying imbalances. Herbs like Fu Ling, Bai Zhu, and Dang Shen supported spleen function, while Ge Gen, Xian Ling Pi, and others cooled internal heat. Emotional support also played a key role—his anxiety was managed through counseling, reducing unnecessary health concerns. Given the recurrence risk of chronic colitis, ongoing colonoscopies were recommended.
Lifestyle & Prevention Tips: For optimal recovery, patients should consider dietary adjustments such as increasing soluble fiber intake from vegetables, fruits, yams, adzuki beans, and lotus seeds. Avoiding high-fat, high-sugar, and trans-fat-rich foods is essential to prevent flare-ups. Medication should ideally be taken after meals to minimize gastric irritation. If undergoing enema therapy, elevating the hips can improve drug retention and effectiveness.
Mental Wellness Matters: Psychological factors can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Chronic stress and anxiety may worsen symptoms, making mental health support a vital component of treatment. Educating patients about their condition and offering emotional guidance can lead to better outcomes. Early detection through regular screenings is also crucial, particularly for those with a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease. Comprehensive care—not just symptomatic relief—is the most effective path to long-term wellness.