Is Chinese medicine effective in treating gallstones?

Traditional Chinese medicine is effective in treating gallstones, but its effects are mainly reflected in relieving symptoms, preventing deterioration and assisting management, and cannot completely replace surgery and standard Western medicine treatment. For mild gallstones, Chinese medicine conditioning can be considered to improve bile metabolism; for severe or accompanied by symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical treatment in a timely manner.

1). Causes of gallstones and TCM treatment logic

From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, the formation of gallstones is related to spleen and stomach weakness, internal dampness and heat, qi stagnation and blood stasis. The treatment methods of traditional Chinese medicine mainly focus on soothing the liver and regulating qi, strengthening the spleen and eliminating dampness, and clearing away heat and promoting bile secretion. Common traditional Chinese medicines include Lysimachia chinensis, Artemisia capillaris, and Gallus gallus lining. For example, Lysimachia chinensis has the effects of promoting diuresis and relieving stranguria, and promoting bile excretion, Artemisia capillaris can clear away heat and dampness, and Gallus gallus lining can help digestion and soften stones. Through the combined effects of these drugs, the excretion of small stones can be promoted and the symptoms of bile duct obstruction can be reduced.

2). Applicable population and indications

Traditional Chinese medicine treatment is suitable for patients with mild to moderate gallstones, especially those with small gallstones and no acute attacks. For this group of people, traditional Chinese medicine can be used as a conservative treatment. For example, taking decoction of Lysimachia chinensis and Bupleurum chinense can help expel stones; drinking water with Artemisia capillaris on a daily basis can help prevent the enlargement of stones. However, patients with severe complications such as biliary colic and cholecystitis should give priority to surgery or other mainstream medical treatments, and traditional Chinese medicine should only be used as an auxiliary.

3). Limitations of TCM treatment and multidisciplinary treatment

The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine for gallstones is mainly reflected in relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence, but it cannot directly eliminate large or calcified stones. The treatment cycle of traditional Chinese medicine is long and requires the continuous cooperation of patients. During the treatment process, it is also necessary to pay attention to syndrome differentiation and treatment. For example, people with damp-heat constitution can add some herbs that clear heat and detoxify, while those with spleen deficiency and qi stagnation tend to focus on promoting qi and eliminating stagnation. More importantly, traditional Chinese medicine treatment needs to be carried out under the guidance of professional doctors, combined with reasonable dietary adjustments and necessary Western medical examinations to ensure overall efficacy.

The treatment plan for gallstones should be based on the severity of the condition. Traditional Chinese medicine can assist in symptom management and prevention to a certain extent, but large stones or severe conditions require surgery and other methods to ensure safety and effectiveness. If gallstones are confirmed, it is recommended that patients consult a doctor as soon as possible to develop a personalized treatment plan, and not blindly rely on traditional Chinese medicine alone.