TCM Approaches for Hypertension
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers various approaches to help manage hypertension. Here's an overview of TCM's perspective on hypertension and some common strategies.
TCM View of Hypertension
In TCM, hypertension is often associated with imbalances in the Liver, Kidney, and Heart systems. It's typically categorized into different syndrome patterns, each requiring a specific approach.
Common TCM Syndrome Patterns in Hypertension
Liver Yang Rising
- Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, irritability, flushed face
- TCM Perspective: Excess Yang energy ascends, pushing blood pressure upward
Kidney Yin Deficiency
- Symptoms: Dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, lower back soreness
- TCM Perspective: Depleted Kidney Yin fails to anchor Yang, allowing it to rise
Phlegm-Damp Obstruction
- Symptoms: Heaviness in the head, chest tightness, obesity
- TCM Perspective: Dampness and phlegm accumulate, hindering Qi and blood flow
Liver Fire Blazing
- Symptoms: Severe headaches, red eyes, irritability, bitter taste
- TCM Perspective: Excessive heat in the Liver triggers hyperactivity
Common TCM Treatments for Hypertension
- Herbal formulas tailored to specific syndrome patterns
- Acupuncture to balance energy flow and reduce stress
- Dietary recommendations to support overall health and reduce inflammation
- Qigong or Tai Chi exercises to promote relaxation and improve circulation
Example Herbal Formulas
- Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin (for Liver Yang Rising)
- Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (for Kidney Yin Deficiency)
- Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang (for Phlegm-Damp Obstruction)
- Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (for Liver Fire Blazing)