Recently, I have encountered many patients inquiring about the treatment of gallbladder polyps in the outpatient clinic. Taking this opportunity, let's explore the concept of prevention and treatment of gallbladder polyps in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which might provide you with some insights.

In the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the formation of gallbladder polyps is closely related to the dysfunction of two major organs: the liver and the spleen. The liver governs the free flow of qi. If liver qi stagnates and does not flow smoothly, it can lead to obstruction in the circulation of qi and blood. The gallbladder and liver are interrelated. Once liver qi is not flowing freely, qi stagnation and blood stasis may form deposits on the gallbladder wall, which can develop into gallbladder polyps. The spleen governs the transportation and transformation of fluids. Spleen deficiency leads to internal retention of dampness and turbidity. When phlegm-dampness follows the flow of qi and blood into the gallbladder, it may also accumulate on the gallbladder wall, thereby inducing gallbladder polyps. Therefore, the treatment of gallbladder polyps requires comprehensive regulation that addresses multiple aspects, such as soothing the liver to relieve stagnation, strengthening the spleen to dispel dampness, and resolving phlegm to dissipate nodules.

Next, I present to you an empirical formula specifically designed for gallbladder polyps, known as the "Gallbladder Cleansing" formula. This prescription consists of several Chinese herbal medicines, including Bupleurum, Scutellaria, Pinellia, Rhubarb, Bitter Orange, Ginger, Jujube, as well as Prunella and Zhejiang Fritillaria.

Among these, Bupleurum serves as the sovereign herb, with the functions of soothing the liver to relieve depression and regulating qi to promote circulation. It helps guide the liver qi to flow smoothly and ensures normal bile secretion. Scutellaria not only clears heat from the liver and gallbladder but also supports healthy qi, preventing pathogenic heat from causing harm. Pinellia has the effects of drying dampness, resolving phlegm, and dissipating masses, which aids in eliminating accumulated phlegm-dampness in the body. Bitter Orange, Prunella, and Zhejiang Fritillaria are all excellent herbs for resolving phlegm and dispersing nodules, specifically targeting the phlegm and stasis accumulation on the gallbladder wall.

Although the aforementioned formula has certain advantages in treating gallbladder polyps, the application of any Chinese herbal formula cannot be separated from individual differences and the specific changes in the condition. Therefore, even a seemingly simple combination of herbs requires adjustments and dosage modifications tailored to the patient's actual situation under the guidance of an experienced traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Only in this way can the treatment be truly targeted, safe, and effective. Hence, it is essential to use the medication correctly under the guidance of a professional TCM doctor and avoid blind self-administration.