According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, it was thought that the formation of the ulcer is due to the autodigestion of the mucous membrane by the gastric acid and pepsin. In recent years, it has been considered that this disease is closely associated with the infection of helicobacter pylori (HP). In addition, it is also relevant to inheritance, geographic environmental factors, emotions, diet, cigarette smoking and some drugs.

This disease belongs to the scope of "wei wan tong"(epigastric pain), "tun suan" (acid regurgitation) and "cao za" (epigastric upset). It is due to long-term emotional disturbance, improper diet and over exertion. At the early stage, it presents as qi stagnation which is caused by spleen deficiency and liver qi stagnation. Qi stagnation may further turn into heat and cause retention of dampness and stagnation of blood.