Basilar Artery Insufficiencyaccording to TCM

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Acupoints Recommended for Stroke

What is Basilar Artery Insufficiency?

Basilar artery insufficiency is a medical condition characterized by reduced blood flow through the basilar artery, which supplies vital oxygen and nutrients to critical brain structures, including the brainstem and cerebellum. This insufficiency can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, such as dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, and in severe cases, stroke. Often grouped under broader categories like vertebrobasilar insufficiency, this condition poses significant risks due to its potential to affect crucial autonomic functions and overall brain health.

Causes of Basilar Artery Insufficiency According to TCM

TCM attributes the causes of basilar artery insufficiency primarily to patterns like Phlegm-Fluid obstruction and Yang Deficiency. Phlegm-Fluid obstruction involves the accumulation of Damp and phlegmatic materials, which can block the proper flow of Qi and Blood within the brain’s vessels, mimicking symptoms of basilar artery insufficiency.

Yang Deficiency, particularly of the Spleen or Kidney, leads to a lack of the warming and movement-generating force necessary for optimal blood circulation, further contributing to the vascular insufficiency. Addressing these underlying causes is crucial for effective TCM treatment to rejuvenate proper blood flow and Qi dynamics.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Basilar Artery Insufficiency

To treat basilar artery insufficiency, TCM recommends specific formulas that target the underlying energetic imbalances. For conditions characterized by Phlegm-Fluids and Cold-Phlegm, the formula Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang with Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) is used to warm the body and transform dampness, enhancing fluid metabolism and circulation.

For more severe Yang Deficiency leading to coldness and edema, Zhen Wu Tang with Prepared aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) acts to strengthen the Spleen and Kidney Yang, restoring the body's ability to warm itself and improve circulation. These formulas are tailored to the individual’s specific TCM diagnosis, ensuring targeted and effective treatment for the symptoms and root causes of basilar artery insufficiency.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address basilar artery insufficiency, organized by formula type.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
  • Formulas that warm interior cold

All "formulas that warm and transform water and dampness" recommended for basilar artery insufficiency

Formula Key herbs
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling)
Zhen Wu Tang Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi)

TCM Herbs for Basilar Artery Insufficiency

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address basilar artery insufficiency, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
  • Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
  • Herbs that drain dampness
  • Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold