Blood Stasis Constitution

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Blood Stasis constitution refers to a condition where the circulation of blood is impeded or slowed.[1][2] This can lead to a variety of health issues if not addressed.

Manifestation Characteristics

• Physical Signs: The primary feature is poor blood circulation.[1] This often manifests as a dull, dark complexion and a purplish, dark tongue.

• Body Shape: Can be either thin or overweight.

• Common Manifestations: A dark or dull complexion, hyperpigmentation, and a tendency to bruise easily.[3][4] The lips may appear dark or dull. The tongue might be dark, purplish, or have purple spots (petechiae), and the veins under the tongue may be dark, enlarged, or twisted. The pulse is often described as “choppy” or “hesitant” (涩脉).

• Psychological Characteristics: Individuals with this constitution are often prone to irritability and forgetfulness.[3][5]

• Disease Tendencies: They are more susceptible to developing fixed masses or lumps (症瘕), various pain conditions, and bleeding disorders.

• Adaptability: They have a low tolerance for cold pathogenic factors.[4]

Conditioning Methods

• Environmental and Lifestyle Adjustments: It is said that “blood moves when it is warmed,” so it is advisable to live in a warm, rather than cool, environment. It’s particularly important to protect against cold in the winter. Maintaining a regular work and rest schedule with sufficient sleep is crucial. One should avoid a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to Qi stagnation and further impede blood circulation.[4]

• Physical Exercise: It is beneficial to engage in activities that promote heart health and blood circulation.[3] Recommended exercises include dancing, Tai Chi, Ba Duan Jin, and therapeutic massage. It is important to move all parts of the body to facilitate the smooth flow of Qi and blood.

• Mental Adjustment: Cultivating an optimistic and cheerful mood is important. In TCM theory, emotional well-being ensures the harmonious flow of Qi and blood, which can help to improve blood stasis. Conversely, feelings of depression and anxiety can worsen the condition.

• Dietary Conditioning: It is recommended to regularly consume foods that invigorate blood and dispel stasis. Examples include brown sugar, loofah, rose flower, Chinese rose, alcohol, and peach kernel. A small amount of alcohol may be consumed regularly, and vinegar can be used more freely. Congees made with hawthorn or peanuts are also considered beneficial.

• Medicinal Conditioning: Herbs that invigorate and nourish the blood can be used. Examples include Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Root), Huai Niu Xi (Achyranthes Root), Xu Chang Qing (Paniculate Swallowwort Root), Ji Xue Teng (Spatholobus Stem), and Chong Wei Zi (Motherwort Fruit). A representative patent formula is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (Cinnamon Twig and Poria Pill).