Persistent Heart Palpitationsaccording to TCM

What is Persistent Heart Palpitations?

Persistent heart palpitations are a medical condition characterized by an unusual awareness of the heartbeat, whether it’s beating too hard, too fast, or with an irregular rhythm. This continuous sensation can significantly impact one's quality of life, often leading to anxiety and concern. These palpitations can occur without any obvious trigger, persisting across different situations and states of rest. Medically, they prompt an investigation into the heart’s electrical system and overall health, assessing for any underlying conditions that might require attention or intervention.

How Does TCM View Persistent Heart Palpitations?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on persistent heart palpitations, viewing them as symptoms of an imbalance within the body’s energetic system rather than isolated cardiac issues. TCM posits that such palpitations are signals of disharmony among the internal organs, Qi (vital energy), and Blood. It emphasizes understanding the specific pattern of disharmony causing the symptom. This approach is crucial because treatment in TCM is tailored to correct these unique imbalances rather than merely addressing the palpitations themselves.

Causes of Persistent Heart Palpitations According to TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, two principal imbalances are often associated with persistent heart palpitations: Heart Qi and Blood Deficiency and the disharmony between the Kidneys and Heart. Heart Qi and Blood Deficiency results from insufficient life energy (Qi) and blood, necessary for maintaining healthy heart functions. This deficiency can cause symptoms such as palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and a pale complexion.

Additionally, the disharmony between the Kidneys and Heart refers to an imbalance where the Kidneys fail to support the Heart adequately, leading to palpitations, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. These examples represent only a portion of the potential causes, as TCM identifies a diverse array of patterns that may underlie such symptoms, necessitating targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Persistent Heart Palpitations

To treat persistent heart palpitations, TCM often utilizes specific formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind, tailored to the underlying pattern identified in the diagnosis. A notable formula for addressing these symptoms is Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang, which prominently includes Biota Seeds (Bai Zi Ren). This formula is particularly suited to cases of Heart Qi and Blood Deficiency, helping to replenish the heart's energy and stabilize emotional and physical wellness.

It is also recommended when addressing imbalances where the Kidneys and Heart are not harmonized, demonstrating the adaptability of TCM formulas to various underlying conditions. This approach highlights the importance of a precise diagnosis to effectively guide the selection and application of therapeutic herbs and compounds in TCM.

See more details below about Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang, a herbal formula used to address persistent heart palpitations.

TCM Herbs for Persistent Heart Palpitations

See more details below about Biota Seeds (Bai Zi Ren), a herb used to address persistent heart palpitations.