Bao He Wan: A TCM Approach to Easing Post-Feast Discomfort

After holiday gatherings full of rich, heavy, or greasy foods, it’s common to feel uncomfortably full, bloated, or sluggish.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this pattern is known as food stagnation—when the digestive system becomes overwhelmed and can’t efficiently transform and transport food.

One of the most well-known formulas used in TCM for easing this pattern is Bao He Wan (保和丸).

Here’s what it is, how it works, and when it may be considered.

What Is Bao He Wan?

Bao He Wan is a classical Chinese herbal formula traditionally used to help with:

• A heavy, bloated feeling after eating

• Distention in the stomach or upper abdomen

• Belching or sour taste

• Mild nausea

• Sluggish digestion

In TCM terms, it helps relieve food stagnation, especially when caused by overeating or eating foods that are too rich, greasy, sweet, or hard to digest.

How Bao He Wan Works in TCM

This formula generally contains a combination of herbs that support digestion by:

1. Breaking down and moving food

To help the body process food more efficiently and reduce that stuck, heavy feeling.

2. Transforming phlegm and dampness

Rich holiday meals are often damp-producing. Bao He Wan gently supports the body in clearing this excess.

3. Harmonizing the stomach

Reducing discomfort, mild nausea, or fullness after overeating.

When Bao He Wan May Be Considered

People often reach for this formula when they experience symptoms such as:

• Feeling overly full even hours after eating

• Upper abdominal distention

• Bloating

• Belching

• Mild nausea

• Food sitting heavily in the stomach

It is not designed for chronic digestive issues but rather for acute situations, especially after indulgent meals—like Thanksgiving.

Who Should Avoid or Use with Caution

It’s important to remember that Bao He Wan is not for everyone.

Avoid or consult a licensed practitioner first if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have chronic digestive disorders

• Have very weak digestion (Spleen Qi Deficiency)

• Experience diarrhea, loose stools, or cold digestive symptoms

• Are taking other herbal formulas or medications

TCM formulas work best when matched specifically to your body, your constitution, and your pattern.

How It’s Typically Taken

Bao He Wan is usually taken in pill form for convenience.

People traditionally take it short-term (not daily) after overeating or when they feel clear signs of food stagnation.

Always follow the instructions on the packaging and the guidance of a licensed TCM practitioner.

Food Stagnation Doesn’t Have to Ruin Your Holiday

If you overindulge during the holiday season, you’re not alone—TCM has supported digestion for thousands of years.

Bao He Wan is one of the most commonly used formulas for those moments, but like any herbal remedy, it should be used safely, mindfully, and with professional guidance.

Read the Rest of the Thanksgiving Mini Series

This post is part of Acu Hour’s Thanksgiving Mini Series, including:

1. What Is Food Stagnation?

2. Preparing Your Body Before the Feast

3. Aftercare Tips for Post-Meal Discomfort

4. Warm TCM Recipes for Easier Digestion

5. Bao He Wan  ← You are here

Stay tuned for more seasonal wellness education and simple TCM tools to support your body naturally.