Edema, traditionally called Dropsy, is the collection of Fluid in the tissues or cavities of the body. It may be acute or chronic, and associated with excess or deficiency. However, in general, Edema is associated with Damp-Phlegm.
The Greeks divided Edema into several types:
Anasarca: it was called Leucophlegmatia Hydrops (‘White-Phlegmy Edema’) by Galen, this type of Edema is characterised by water lying between the skin and flesh, with generalised swelling of the whole body. When the skin is pressed, it stays depressed with a dent after the finger is removed (‘pitting’). The pulse is slow and forceless. This is the Cold Damp-type Edema. If there is deficiency, it is associated with Yang deficiency.
Tympanites: this is an Edema caused by Wind, not Water. The abdomen is puffed up and sounds drum-like when concussed (hence its name). The navel is also sometimes pushed forth. In chronic conditions, the rest of the body may waste, while the abdomen stays distended or swollen. This is a Wind (or Qi)-type Edema which obstructs fluids.
Ascites: collection of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.
The primary treatment is with diuretics (classed as Medicines that Clear Damp in TCM). Warm or cold medicines are chosen depending on if Damp is with Cold or Heat. Chronic cases require strengthening medicines. In the Western Tradition, the Humor is prepared, then purged.
Diet plays a major role in the treatment of Edema. Cold, raw foods and drinks are to be avoided, while warming and diuretic foods should be encouraged, such as Celery, Pumpkin, Barley, Beans etc.
The ‘Opening Roots’ and ‘Warming Seeds’ are of prime importance in the treatment of Edema in the Western Tradition. See also Ascites
Western Tradition
Hydropisi conferunt – Edema 1. Celery seed, Parsley seed (equal parts), infuse in wine and drink, or else take the powder with wine. 2. Cinnamon, Fennel seed as a decoction 3. Steep Asasrum in wine for 3 months. Strain and give a small glassful morning and evening
Damp Heat Edema with Urinary discomfort, burning or difficult urine, high colored urine, abdominal distention, red tongue with a greasy yellow coat, rapid or rapid and slippery pulse. Er Miao San Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
TOAD POWDER Dried and powdered Toad given in dose of half dram with wine “cures almost incurable Dropsies”. The ashes can also be used, or a Tincture can be made.
SNAIL ASHES Burn Snails with their shells in a pot until white. Half a dram oif this powder promotes abundant Urination. (Culpeper)
ANTIDOTE OF ASCLEPIDAS Madder Gentian Maidenhair Parsley seed Mustard seed Cucumber seed Pepper Spikenard Costus Agrimony Oregano Nigella equal parts Powder, mix with Honey. (Syrian ‘Book of Medicine‘, Budge, 1913)
PILLS FOR EDEMA Aloe 6 drams Dodder 3 drams Rhubarb Asarum Agaric 4 drams each Saffron Spikenard 3 drams each Parsley seed 1 dram
PILLS OF BDELLIUM FOR EDEMA Bdellium Colocynth pulp Agaric Scammony equal parts Form pills with wine. (Syrian ‘Book of Medicine‘, Budge, 1913)
OINTMENT FOR SWOLLEN LEGS Hogs Grease Mugwort a little vinegar Make an ointment which is very effectual for leg swelling.
SWELLING OF THE KNEES: Beat Rue with Honey and Salt and apply.
