Cerebral Contusionaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Injuries, Cuts & Traumatic Wounds, Brain Disorders
Parent symptom: Contusion
What is Cerebral Contusion?
A cerebral contusion, commonly known as brain bruising, is a type of traumatic brain injury. It occurs when a strong impact to the head leads to the bruising of the brain tissue. This injury results in bleeding and swelling inside the brain, often accompanied by symptoms like headache, confusion, dizziness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Cerebral contusions are a serious health concern and may require immediate medical attention. Understanding the extent of these injuries is crucial as they can lead to complications if left untreated.
How does TCM view Cerebral Contusion?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cerebral contusion is viewed through the lens of disrupted internal balance and energy flow. TCM posits that such injuries result from a disruption to the harmonious flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood within the body.
This perspective sees the contusion as an obstruction in the body’s energetic pathways, leading to Blood Stagnation and Qi blockage, which in turn manifest as the physical symptoms observed in cerebral contusion. TCM approaches these injuries with an aim to restore balance and promote the body’s natural healing processes.
Causes of Cerebral Contusion According to TCM
From the TCM standpoint, cerebral contusion arises from specific imbalances and patterns of disharmony. One significant cause is the Stagnation of Blood, where the injury leads to an accumulation and stasis of blood in the brain, disrupting the normal flow and function.
Another related pattern is Qi Stagnation, where the flow of Qi is impeded, further aggravating the condition. TCM treatments focus on resolving these stagnations and restoring the smooth flow of Qi and blood, essential for healing and recovery.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Cerebral Contusion
In TCM, several formulas and herbs are recommended to address the underlying patterns of a cerebral contusion. A notable formula is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, which includes Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) as a key ingredient. This formula is known for its properties to invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation, making it particularly useful in treating patterns like Greater Yang Accumulation of Blood and Blood Stagnation associated with cerebral contusions. The selection of specific herbs and formulas in TCM is tailored to the individual's unique pattern of disharmony, aiming to effectively treat the root cause and facilitate recovery.
See more details below about Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, a herbal formula used to address cerebral contusion.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Cerebral contusion can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, with peach kernel as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Cerebral Contusion
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address cerebral contusion, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Cerebral contusion can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cerebral contusion, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Cerebral contusion can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cerebral contusion, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.