Exploring the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment methods of depression with somatization disorder from the perspective of "cold water, damp earth, and stagnant wood"

Depression is primarily characterized by persistent low mood, emotional disorders, and loss of interest. Somatization disorder is a type of neurotic disorder, primarily featuring recurrent, varied, and non-organic physical discomfort symptoms. In traditional Chinese medicine, depression with somatization disorder can be classified under the category of "depression" and "hysteria" according to its clinical symptoms. This article focuses on the dynamic evolution of the functions of the kidney, spleen, and liver, and explains the core pathogenesis of depression with somatization disorder based on the theory of "cold water, damp earth, and stagnant wood" proposed by HUANG Yuanyu. It explores the causes and related manifestations. Symptoms mainly characterized by cramps and convulsions can be attributed to the liver; symptoms primarily characterized by heaviness, distension, and dull pain accompanied by weakness can be attributed to the spleen; symptoms primarily characterized by stiffness, reluctance to move or inability to move, and reluctance to extend outward can be attributed to the kidney. Liver depression and spleen dampness, as well as wood depression and earth congestion, are treated by strengthening the spleen and soothing the liver, drying dampness and calming wind, and the modified Xiaoyao Powder combined with Yueju Pill is recommended. Spleen dampness and kidney coldness, earth failure and water overflow, are treated by tonifying the spleen and kidney, warming water and transforming dampness, and the modified Jingui Shenqi Pill combined with Linggui Zhugan Decoction is recommended. Kidney coldness and liver hyperactivity, water not nourishing wood, are treated by warming the kidney and enriching essence, replenishing water and nourishing wood, and the modified Dihuang Yinzi is recommended. This article explores the corresponding etiology, pathogenesis, treatment methods, and prescriptions for depression with somatization disorder, with the aim of providing new insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.