Symptom family: Communication Disorders
Sub-symptom(s): Post-Stroke Aphasia Broca's Aphasia
Aphasia is a complex language disorder that affects an individual's ability to communicate effectively. This neurological condition typically results from damage to the brain's language centers, often due to stroke, traumatic brain injury, or neurodegenerative diseases. Aphasia can manifest in various forms, impacting different aspects of language processing, including speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. Individuals with aphasia may struggle to find the right words, construct coherent sentences, or comprehend spoken or written language. The severity of aphasia can range from mild difficulties in word-finding to a complete loss of language abilities. This condition not only affects verbal communication but can also have profound impacts on an individual's social interactions, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches aphasia through the lens of pattern diagnosis, a fundamental concept that distinguishes it from Western medical approaches. In TCM, a pattern represents the underlying disharmony within the body's systems that gives rise to symptoms like aphasia. This holistic view considers not just the symptom itself, but how it relates to overall bodily functions, energy flow, and organ interactions.
Identifying the correct pattern is crucial because it guides the entire treatment strategy. For aphasia, patterns might involve imbalances in organs like the Heart or Liver, or disruptions in the flow of Qi and Blood. By addressing these root patterns, TCM aims to restore balance and improve speech function more comprehensively than treating the symptom in isolation.
In the TCM paradigm, aphasia is often attributed to the accumulation of Phlegm and the presence of excessive Heat in the body. One significant pattern associated with aphasia is Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium. This condition manifests not only in speech difficulties but also in symptoms such as palpitations, flushed face, restlessness, and anxiety. The combination of Phlegm and Fire is believed to obstruct the Heart's orifices, leading to impaired communication abilities.
Another important pattern in TCM's understanding of aphasia is Heat in the Nutritive Qi level. This pattern is characterized by nighttime fever, dry mouth, restlessness, and incoherent speech. TCM practitioners view these patterns as reflecting deeper imbalances in the body's energy systems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of symptoms and their underlying causes.
Explore below more details about what might cause Aphasia according to TCM.
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Common Symptoms: Noisy Breathing Incoherent Or Confused Speech Confusion Talking To Oneself Depression Stifling Sensation In The Chest Coma Palpitations
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
Phlegm Misting the Heart | Aphasia, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
Wind-Phlegm | Aphasia, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang |
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Common Symptoms: Incoherent Or Confused Speech Restlessness Insomnia Confusion Coma Nighttime Fever Delirium Macules
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Heat in Nutritive Qi level | Aphasia, Nighttime fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Restlessness, Insomnia, Delirium, Incoherent or confused speech, Macules... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Bai He Di Huang Tang |
Heat in Pericardium | Aphasia, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan |
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more
Common Symptoms: Noisy Breathing Incoherent Or Confused Speech Confusion Talking To Oneself Depression Coma Palpitations Flushed Face
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
Phlegm Misting the Heart | Aphasia, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Wind-Phlegm | Aphasia, Dizziness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more | Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang |
In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more
Common Symptoms: Confusion Incoherent Or Confused Speech Coma Nighttime Fever Delirium Cold Extremities Feeling Of Heat Macules
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Heat in Pericardium | Aphasia, Nighttime fever, Delirium, Confusion, Incoherent or confused speech, Cold extremities... see more | Qing Ying Tang | Zhi Bao Dan |
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more | Zhi Bao Dan | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Hui Chun Dan |
In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more
Common Symptoms: Confusion Incoherent Or Confused Speech Noisy Breathing Talking To Oneself Depression Coma Loss Of Consciousness Hypersomnia
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Phlegm Misting the Heart | Aphasia, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan |
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart | Aphasia, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin |
The treatment of aphasia in TCM involves carefully selected herbal formulas tailored to address the specific pattern of disharmony identified in each patient. For Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, a commonly recommended formula is Zhi Bao Dan, which belongs to the category of formulas that clear Heat and open sensory orifices. This formula often includes Water Buffalo Horns (Shui Niu Jiao), a key herb known for its ability to cool the Blood. In cases of Heat in the Nutritive Qi level, practitioners might prescribe Qing Ying Tang, another formula designed to clear Heat at this deep level. Both formulas aim to address the root imbalances causing aphasia while also alleviating associated symptoms. It's important to note that TCM treatment is highly individualized, and the choice of formula may vary based on the patient's specific presentation and overall constitution.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address aphasia, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause aphasia, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Di Tan Tang | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Su He Xiang Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang | Wind-Phlegm |
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause aphasia, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Qing Ying Tang | Heat in Nutritive Qi level, Heat in Pericardium |
Zhi Bao Dan | Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Bai He Di Huang Tang | Heat in Nutritive Qi level |
Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Suitable for Mind Disturbance patterns that may cause aphasia, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Di Tan Tang | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Gun Tan Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Su He Xiang Wan | Phlegm Misting the Heart |
Sheng Tie Luo Yin | Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
Suitable for Wind patterns that may cause aphasia, such as Wind-Phlegm
Learn moreThese formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Wen Dan Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm Misting the Heart, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart... see more |
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart |
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Heat in Pericardium or Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium.
One such formula is Zhi Bao Dan, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Zhi Bao Dan | Heat in Pericardium, Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Heat in Nutritive Qi level or Heat in Pericardium.
One such formula is Qing Ying Tang, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Heat in Nutritive Qi level.
One such formula is Bai He Di Huang Tang, with lily bulb as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Di Tan Tang, with arisaema as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Gun Tan Wan, with chlorite schist as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Phlegm Misting the Heart.
One such formula is Su He Xiang Wan, with styrax resin as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart.
One such formula is Sheng Tie Luo Yin, with oxidized iron filing as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some aphasia-causing patterns like Wind-Phlegm.
One such formula is Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Aphasia can be treated by these formulas when it is due to internal wind, which is often associated with spasms, tremors, or dizziness.
One such formula is Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, with gastrodia rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Not applicable |
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Not applicable |
Aphasia can be treated by these formulas if it stems from a deficiency in both Yin and Yang energies, necessitating a balanced approach to tonification.
One such formula is Huan Shao Dan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Acupuncture plays a crucial role in TCM's approach to treating aphasia, with specific acupoints targeted to address the underlying imbalances and promote recovery of language function. Several key acupoints are commonly used in the treatment of aphasia, each chosen for its unique therapeutic properties. In the Stomach Channel, points like Chengqi ST-1 and Dicang ST-4 are utilized for their ability to clear Heat, expel Wind, and remove obstructions from the channel. The Governing Vessel offers important points such as Fengfu DU-16 and Yamen DU-15, which are renowned for expelling Interior Wind, nourishing the Brain, and benefiting the tongue and speech. Additionally, points from the Pericardium Channel, like Jianshi P-5, are valued for their ability to open the Mind's orifices, remove Phlegm, and calm the Mind. This multi-channel approach reflects TCM's comprehensive strategy in addressing the complex nature of aphasia, targeting both the neurological aspects and the energetic imbalances believed to underlie the condition.
Explore below some acupoints used to address aphasia, organized by meridian.
On the lateral mandible, on the anterior border of masseter muscle, in the groove-like depression appearing when the cheek is bulged.
Within the hairline of the temporal region, midway of the line connecting Touwei ST-8 and Qubin GB-7.
Within the hairline inferior to the corner of the temporal region, midway of the lower half of the distance between Touwei ST-8 and Qubing GB-7.
Within the hairline anterior and superior to the auricle, about 1 finger-breadth (0.5 cun) anterior to Jiaosun TB-20 which is on the apex of the ear.
On the back of the neck, 0.5 cun directly above the midpoint of the posterior hairline, below the spinous process of 1st cervical vertebra (C1).
Directly below the external occipital protuberance, in the depression between the origins of the trapezius muscle.
On the lateral side of the neck, level with the tip of Adam's apple, between the sternal head and clavicular head of sternocleidomastoid muscle.
3 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.
On the anterior midline of the neck, above the Adm's apple, in the depression at the upper border of the hyoid bone.
On the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, 1 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist when the palm faces upward.