When most of us hear terms like PCOS or fibroids, we jump straight to hormones, Western diagnostics, or surgery. But in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these conditions fall under Zheng Jia—abdominal masses that form when Qi stagnates, blood becomes static, and dampness or phlegm coalesces in the lower body. It’s not just about size; it's about systemic harmony.
1. Zheng Jia: What Does It Really Mean?
In TCM, Zheng Jia represents more than physical lumps—it signals a deeper energetic imbalance. PCOS and fibroids both reveal congestion—be it in blood flow, menstrual cycles, or qi pathways. This imbalance can show up as missed periods, cramps, fogginess, or emotional stagnation.
2. TCM’s Herbal Allies and Approach
- Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (Cinnamon Twig & Poria Pill) is one of the most trusted formulas—it warms, moves blood, and softens masses. Great for menstrual pain or fibroid-related discomfort.
- For PCOS, formulas like Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (GZFLW) and Jia Wei Xiao Yao San (JWXYS) move blood, soothe the Liver, and ease cycles.
- Individual herbs like Xiang Fu (Cyperus) and Yi Mu Cao (Chinese motherwort) are tactical—helping activate flow and gently dissolve accumulation.
3. What to Eat (and Skip) for TCM Harmony
Foods to Avoid
- Anything cold, raw, or refrigerated—especially iced drinks and salads—weakens spleen qi and contributes to dampness (e.g., sushi, smoothie breakfasts).
- Refined sugars, processed meats, high-fat dairy, and MSG can fuel inflammation and worsen fibroid symptoms.
Foods to Favor
- Gentle, warming staples: cooked root vegetables, soups, porridge with ginger or dates—support spleen qi and reduce phlegm.
- Lycopene-rich tomatoes, omega-3–rich fish, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, and fiber-forward whole grains assist hormonal balance and support detox.
Bottom Line & Soft Invitation
In TCM, true healing isn’t just about shrinking a mass—it’s about smoothing energy through your body, warming your center, and honoring the rhythm of your cycle. If you’ve been trying everything but still feel stuck, inviting warmth (in routine, food, herbs, and mindset) might be the gentle pivot you need.