Formulas & Needles
TCM for Bloating and Water Retention
Bloating and water retention are classic signs of Spleen qi deficiency and dampness in TCM. Learn which herbs drain dampness, which acupressure points relieve bloating, and which foods reduce water retention naturally.
A Personal NoteBloating is one of the most common complaints I hear about — and one that Western medicine handles poorly. The standard advice is "eat less fiber" or "take an antacid," which rarely addresses the root. TCM understands bloating as a sign that the Spleen — the organ system responsible for transforming fluids — is overwhelmed. The solution is not to eat less but to strengthen the Spleen's ability to process what you eat.
The TCM View: Spleen Deficiency and Dampness
The Spleen's job is to transform and transport fluids throughout the body. When the Spleen is weak, fluids accumulate as "dampness" — felt as bloating, water retention, a heavy sensation, and morning puffiness.
Causes: Irregular eating, excessive cold/raw foods, overeating, rich and greasy foods, worry and overthinking.
Key Herbs for Bloating
Fu Ling (Poria, 茯苓) — Sweet, neutral. Drains dampness and strengthens the Spleen. The gentlest and most commonly used herb for water retention. 10-15g.
Ze Xie (Water Plantain, 泽泻) — Sweet, cold. Stronger diuretic — drains damp-heat from the lower body. 6-12g.
Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel, 陈皮) — Pungent, bitter, warm. Moves stagnant qi in the digestive tract and dries dampness. Add to tea or cooking. 3-10g.
Bai Zhu (Atractylodes, 白术) — Bitter, sweet, warm. Strengthens the Spleen to prevent dampness from forming. 6-15g.
Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed, 薏苡仁) — Sweet, cool. Drains dampness through urination. Safe for daily consumption as food. 15-30g.
Acupressure for Bloating
Tian Shu (ST25) — Two finger-widths to either side of the navel. Press for 1-2 minutes to move stagnation in the intestines.
Zhong Wan (CV12) — Midway between navel and breastbone. Directly regulates Stomach qi and relieves bloating. Massage in clockwise circles.
Yin Ling Quan (SP9) — Inner side of the lower leg, below the knee. The key point for draining dampness from the body.
Feng Long (ST40) — Midway between knee and ankle, two finger-widths lateral to the shinbone. Transforms phlegm and dries dampness.
Foods for Bloating Relief
Eat more: Ginger, daikon radish, Chinese barley (coix seed), adzuki beans, winter melon, celery, fennel seeds after meals
Avoid: Dairy (especially cold milk and yogurt), cold drinks, raw salads, excessive sugar, fried foods
Simple Anti-Bloating Tea
Chen Pi & Ginger Digestive Tea: 1 small piece aged Chen Pi, 3 slices fresh ginger, 300ml water. Simmer 10 minutes. Sip slowly after meals.
