Splenic Vein Thrombosis and Jin Ling Zi San

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Splenic vein thrombosis is an uncommon condition that, in general, only affects people dealing with other spleen-related conditions. Though it frequently presents with few, if any, symptoms, splenic vein thrombosis can develop into a medical emergency that can threaten the patient’s life.

Western medicine has identified the condition and can diagnose it, but treatments are still developing and include the use of anticoagulant drugs. There is another option, though. Chinese medicinal herbs – Jin Ling Zi San foremost among them – can also treat splenic vein thrombosis and support better patient outcomes. 

What is Splenic Vein Thrombosis and its Symptoms?

The clue is in the name. Splenic vein thrombosis is characterized by a blood clot (thrombosis) that originates in the splenic vein – the vein branching off the liver’s portal vein that connects the liver to the spleen.

At first, symptoms may be minimal or absent. With time, splenic vein thrombosis can result in upper GI bleeding (including vomiting blood), varices (expanded blood vessels), anemia, and restricted blood flow to the intestines. If the thrombosis spreads, it can threaten the patient’s life.

About 65 percent of all splenic vein thrombosis cases are the result of pancreatitis, though some types of cancer and portal vein blood clots can also cause the condition.

How Chinese Medicine and Jin Ling Zi San Can Help with Splenic Vein Thrombosis

Chinese medicine has effectively treated pancreatic disorders for centuries using herbal formulations designed to target particular organs and organ channels.

Jin Ling Zi San is one such formulation and includes a pair of botanicals – Chuan Lian Zi (Chinaberry fruit) and Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis). Chuan Lian Zi is a cool herb that targets the liver and gallbladder, promoting Qi flow through the liver and draining heat from the organ. Yan Hu Suo is used to boost blood and Qi movement through the body, helping resolve blood stagnation (thrombosis) that may develop as a result of pancreatitis.

Together, these herbs are a good match for splenic vein thrombosis, though it’s recommended that patients consult with a licensed Houston practitioner to verify that they are indicated for a particular patient, and for proper usage and dosing.