Endometriomas are cysts which form from displaced endometrial tissue. Normally, endometrial tissue lines the walls of the uterus, but in the condition of endometriosis, pieces of tissue migrate to other places in the reproductive system, or even into the abdominal cavity. Wherever endometrial tissue lodges, it continues to respond to the menstrual hormones, enlarging and shrinking and producing blood. The third type of ovarian cyst is a dermoid cyst. Dermoid cysts tend to be firm and self-contained, and are composed of tissue which is usually found in other parts of the body such as skin, hair, or teeth.
Functional cysts respond very well to acupuncture and Chinese herbs.
Endometrial cysts will generally respond to the Chinese medicine approach to endometriosis. Dermoid cysts need to be surgically removed if they are troublesome. Each of these factors takes time to develop. Phlegm and dampness are due to an imbalance of the Spleen s energy. When the Spleen s own energy is deficient, it begins to lose its ability to produce sufficient amounts of Chi and blood.