TCM’s View on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS): A Garden with Weeds & Unripe Seeds 

Imagine you are preparing a beautiful garden to plant a seed. However, instead of rich, balanced soil, you find  overgrown weeds that choke the plants, and many seeds that remain immature and never blossom. 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is like this overgrown, unbalanced  garden—where the weeds (excess Dampness & Phlegm) block growth, and the seeds (eggs) fail to ripen  properly due to hormonal imbalance. To restore the garden’s health, we must clear the weeds, nourish the soil,  improve circulation, and create a warm, nurturing environment for healthy growth. 

What Causes PCOS in TCM? 

1.Excess Dampness & Phlegm = Overgrown Weeds (Hormonal Imbalance & Cysts) 

If a garden becomes too damp, weeds grow uncontrollably, and the soil becomes heavy and sticky. In TCM, PCOS is often caused  by excessive Dampness and Phlegm, which block ovulation and create ovarian cysts. 

2.Blood Stagnation = Blocked Roots (Irregular Periods & Poor Circulation) 

When water cannot reach the plant’s roots, they wither and fail to grow. Similarly, in PCOS, Blood stagnation blocks proper ovarian  function, leading to irregular or absent periods. 

3.Kidney Deficiency = Weak Soil (Poor Egg Quality & Fertility Challenges) 

If the soil is weak and lacking nutrients, plants struggle to grow strong. In TCM, the Kidneys are the foundation of reproductive  health, and Kidney Qi deficiency can lead to poor egg quality and irregular cycles. 

4.Liver Qi Stagnation = Sunlight Blocked by Clouds (Emotional Stress & Hormonal Imbalance) 

Imagine the sun trying to shine on your garden, but thick clouds block the light. Without sunlight, the plants cannot grow properly. In  TCM, Liver Qi stagnation—often caused by stress and emotional imbalance—disrupts hormone regulation and worsens PCOS  symptoms. 

TCM Approach for PCOS 

1.Clear the Weeds (Resolve Dampness & Transform Phlegm) 

Balance hormones and reduce cyst formation by clearing excess dampness and phlegm. 

• Focus on warm, clean eating—avoid dairy, sugar, and processed foods 

• Strengthen digestion with regular meals and warming herbal teas 

• Incorporate light, daily movement to support metabolism and fluid regulation 

2.Unblock the Roots (Move Blood & Regulate Menstruation) 

Improve circulation and restore menstrual flow by moving stagnant blood. 

• Engage in regular movement (e.g., walking, yoga) to support pelvic blood flow 

• Use warmth therapy on the lower abdomen to soften congestion 

• Avoid cold exposure and inactivity, especially around menstruation 

3.Strengthen the Soil (Nourish the Kidneys & Support Egg Quality) 

Enhance fertility and regulate ovulation by restoring Kidney energy. 

• Prioritise restorative sleep and reduce overstimulation 

• Eat warming, essence-building foods like seeds, beans, and cooked root vegetables 

• Avoid excessive sexual activity, chronic stress, or overwork that depletes Jing 

4.Clear the Clouds (Soothe Liver Qi & Restore Emotional Flow) 

Promote hormonal balance and emotional well-being by moving Liver Qi. 

• Practice emotional release—journaling, talking, or gentle creative work 

• Engage in movement that supports flow and reduces tension (e.g., tai chi, dance) 

• Simplify daily routines to minimise emotional and mental pressure

True Healing Restores Harmony 

PCOS is more than irregular cycles — it’s a sign of internal imbalance. 

Begin your natural healing journey — Book your personalised TCM consultation today.