Constipation Treatment with Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs
Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints we see in clinic. For many people, it can cause discomfort, bloating, and a general feeling of sluggishness that affects energy, mood, and quality of life.
While diet, hydration and exercise are essential, many patients find that acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) offer effective, natural support for regulating bowel function, especially in chronic or functional constipation.
Understanding Constipation in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), constipation is viewed not just as a digestive issue, but as a sign of imbalance within the body.
Some common patterns we see include:
Heat and dryness – leading to dry, hard stools and a feeling of heat or irritability.
Qi stagnation – when stress or emotional tension “locks” the bowels, causing bloating and irregular bowel movements.
Qi or Yang deficiency – where low energy and slow metabolism contribute to infrequent, difficult stools.
Blood or Yin deficiency – producing dry stools and fatigue.
Treatment focuses on restoring the natural movement of Qi and fluids through the digestive system, helping the bowels return to their normal rhythm.
How Acupuncture Helps
Research shows acupuncture can help regulate bowel motility, balance the nervous system, and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Commonly used acupuncture points for constipation include:
ST25 (Tianshu) – a key point on the abdomen to regulate the intestines.
ST36 (Zusanli) – supports digestion and energy.
ST37 (Shangjuxu) – influences large intestine function.
LI4 (Hegu) and LV3 (Taichong) – relieve tension and promote healthy movement of Qi.
Some patients respond best to electroacupuncture, which gently stimulates the points with low-frequency current. Clinical studies have shown electroacupuncture can improve stool frequency and ease symptoms in chronic constipation, sometimes with results comparable to prescription medications.
Herbal Medicine for Constipation
Chinese herbal medicine provides another layer of support, helping to moisten, move, or strengthen the bowels depending on your body’s needs.
One of the best-studied herbal formulas is Ma Zi Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Pill).
Modern clinical trials have shown that this traditional formula can improve bowel frequency and stool consistency, with results comparable to conventional laxatives — but with a gentler, more harmonising effect on the digestive system.
Other formulas, such as Run Chang Wan or those containing Da Huang (Rhubarb Root), may be prescribed depending on whether your pattern involves dryness, heat, or deficiency.
Your practitioner will always tailor herbs specifically to your constitution and symptoms.
What the Research Says
A 2016 systematic review found acupuncture can significantly improve stool frequency and symptoms in patients with functional constipation. A large randomised clinical trial showed electroacupuncture to be as effective as the prescription drug prucalopride for severe chronic constipation. Points used were : St25, Sp14, St37 (Standard Points), Plus DU20/24 (With Anxiety), Plus BL 33 (For severe constipation) Studies on Ma Zi Ren Wan have demonstrated increased spontaneous bowel movements and improved patient comfort compared with placebo.
While more high-quality research is ongoing, current evidence supports acupuncture and herbal medicine as safe and effective complementary options for constipation management.
What to Expect in Treatment
At your first session, your practitioner will take a detailed health history, discuss your digestive symptoms, and assess your overall constitution.
Treatment usually involves:
Acupuncture: 1–2 sessions per week for several weeks, depending on severity.
Herbal support: a tailored formula to complement acupuncture.
Lifestyle advice: including dietary guidance, hydration, and movement tips.
Many patients notice gradual improvement within the first few weeks — not just in bowel regularity, but in energy, sleep, and overall wellbeing.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While acupuncture and herbs can help most types of functional constipation, it’s important to seek urgent medical attention if constipation is accompanied by:
Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
Blood in the stool
Unexplained weight loss
A sudden, persistent change in bowel habits
In Summary
Constipation can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to become a long-term issue. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer a natural, evidence-based way to help your body restore healthy bowel rhythm, reduce bloating, and support digestive balance.
If you’ve been struggling with irregular or difficult bowel movements, our experienced practitioners can assess your individual pattern and create a treatment plan that helps you feel lighter, more comfortable, and more in balance.