Liver Qi Stagnation (肝气郁结 Gān Qì Yù Jié)
Liver Qi Stagnation (肝气郁结) is one of the most common Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns in modern life, arising from chronic stress, emotional suppression, and high-pressure lifestyles. In TCM theory, the Liver governs the smooth flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body, and when stressed, this flow becomes obstructed or 'stagnant,' manifesting as irritability, mood swings, tension headaches, neck/shoulder tightness, digestive issues, and insomnia. The tongue typically shows red sides (Liver channel) with a thin white or yellow coating. In this case, a 38-year-old lawyer with 2 years of worsening symptoms was diagnosed via AI tongue analysis with 96.8% accuracy. Treatment used Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Formula), a classic 800-year-old formula containing Bupleurum and White Peony to smooth Liver Qi, combined with stress management techniques like deep breathing and reduced work hours. Results showed 50% stress reduction within 1 week, and 80% overall improvement by week 5 with AI follow-up confirming 88% Liver Qi pattern resolution.
Many patients notice initial improvement within 1-2 weeks with proper treatment. In this case, stress perception reduced 50% within the first week. By week 3, sleep quality improved significantly, and by week 5, 80% overall symptom resolution occurred. However, stress management lifestyle changes must continue long-term to prevent recurrence.
Liver Qi Stagnation is a functional pattern describing how stress affects multiple body systems - digestive, muscular, emotional, and sleep - not just mental symptoms. While Western anxiety focuses on psychological symptoms, Liver Qi Stagnation explains the mechanism (blocked energy flow) and includes physical manifestations like neck tension, digestive issues, and menstrual irregularity that pure anxiety diagnosis doesn't address.
Mild cases may improve with lifestyle changes alone (stress reduction, exercise, breathing techniques, emotional expression). However, moderate to severe cases like this one (2+ years duration, multiple symptoms) typically require herbal medicine to break the stagnation pattern while implementing lifestyle changes. Think of herbs as the intervention that creates space for lifestyle modifications to work.
Xiao Yao San is one of the safest TCM formulas, used for over 800 years. It's gentle enough for long-term use (months to years) when monitored by a qualified practitioner. In this case, the patient used it for 5 weeks acutely, then periodically as needed. Side effects are rare and typically mild (occasional digestive upset). Always consult a licensed TCM practitioner for proper dosing.
In TCM, the Liver's Qi-moving function directly affects the Spleen and Stomach's digestive function. The Five Element theory shows Wood (Liver) controlling Earth (Spleen) - when Liver Qi stagnates from stress, it 'over-controls' or attacks the Spleen, disrupting digestion. This explains why stress causes bloating, irregular bowel movements, and appetite changes - it's Liver-Spleen disharmony, not separate systems.
Liver Qi Stagnation transforming to Heat
Heart Fire (secondary to stress)
Generalized anxiety disorder, stress-induced hypertension, tension headaches, possible IBS
Chronic stress → Liver fails to spread Qi smoothly → Qi stagnates → Generates Heat → Disturbs Heart Spirit
Patient continued low-dose formula for 3 months during stressful work period. At 6-month follow-up: maintained emotional balance, uses breathing techniques proactively, no medication needed for anxiety. Reports feeling "like myself again."
TCM stress management validated by peer-reviewed research.
This AI-powered tongue analysis tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided should not replace professional medical consultation.
Important: Always consult with a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, qualified healthcare provider, or physician before making any health decisions or starting any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information obtained from this tool.
Note: While our AI models are trained on extensive datasets, no automated system is 100% accurate. Results may vary and should be verified by qualified health professionals. If you experience any serious symptoms or health concerns, seek immediate medical attention.