Shingles Root Causes · ZhongDaoTaiChi & QiGong & TCM

Shingles Root Causes

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), shingles (Herpes Zoster) isn't just a virus but a manifestation of internal disharmony, primarily Damp-Heat and Wind-Fire pathogens stagnating and attacking the body, often along the Liver and Gallbladder meridians, triggered by a weakened immune system (deficient Qi) and emotional stress. Root causes involve internal Liver-Qi Stagnation, Spleen weakness (causing Dampness), and underlying Kidney Yin Deficiency, leading to toxic heat and poor energy flow (Qi) that allows the dormant virus to reactivate, causing inflammation, pain, and blisters.

Core TCM Causes

Damp-Heat & Wind-Fire: These are the main culprits, representing pathogenic factors that make the body susceptible.Heat: From inactivity, stress, or diet, causing redness and severe pain.Dampness: Sluggishness, fluid-filled blisters, often linked to Spleen deficiency from poor diet or worry.Wind: Causes itching and rapid spread, often accompanying Heat.
Liver-Qi Stagnation: Stress and emotions (anger, frustration) disrupt Liver Qi, creating heat and stagnation, allowing the virus to flare.
Spleen Deficiency: Weak Spleen leads to Dampness and fatigue, making the system vulnerable.
Kidney Yin Deficiency: Often a chronic pattern, leading to recurrent outbreaks and post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).

What Triggers Reactivation?

Stress & Emotions: Major triggers that inflame Liver Qi.
Poor Diet: Contributes to Dampness and Spleen weakness.
Weakened Immunity (Qi/Blood Deficiency): Allows the virus to emerge from dormancy.
External Factors: Sometimes linked to other immune system stressors.

TCM Approach

TCM aims to clear the Heat, expel the Dampness, and pacify the Wind, addressing the underlying pattern with acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal formulas to restore the body's balance and boost immunity.

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