Primary Hypertensionaccording to TCM
*redirected from Essential hypertension
Symptom family: Hypertension
Parent symptom: Hypertension
What is Primary Hypertension?
Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is a chronic medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries is elevated, which can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Unlike secondary hypertension, which can be attributed to specific causes such as kidney disease, primary hypertension does not have a clear cause and is likely influenced by multiple factors including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. It is the most common type of hypertension, affecting adults and increasingly seen in younger populations.
How Does TCM View Primary Hypertension?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to understanding primary hypertension, seeing it not just as a symptom but as a reflection of deeper imbalances within the body's energy system. TCM posits that hypertension arises when there is a disharmony in the body's vital energies, particularly the Qi (vital energy) and Blood.
Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is essential in TCM, as this determines the treatment strategy. This could involve invigorating Qi, nourishing blood, clearing heat, or resolving stagnation to restore balance and address hypertension effectively.
Causes of Primary Hypertension According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primary hypertension is often seen as a symptom of underlying imbalances in the body's energy systems, specifically Qi, Blood, and the functional state of the Kidneys and Liver. One common TCM pattern associated with hypertension is Kidney Deficiency, which can manifest as both Yin or Yang Deficiency, or often a combination of both, reflecting a fundamental depletion of the body's vital essence and regulatory ability.
Another significant pattern is Liver Qi Stagnation, which is typically linked to emotional stress and can lead to an irregular flow of energy and blood, thereby contributing to elevated blood pressure. These TCM patterns highlight the need for a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, aiming to correct the root imbalances that lead to hypertension.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Primary Hypertension
To address the complex patterns associated with primary hypertension, TCM practitioners utilize a variety of herbal formulas tailored to individual needs. For patients demonstrating signs of Heart Qi and Blood Deficiency, the formula Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang is recommended; it uses Biota Seeds to nourish the Heart and calm the Mind. For those with Kidney Deficiencies—where both Yin and Yang are weakened—Er Xian Tang, which includes Curculigo Rhizomes, serves to tonify and balance these fundamental energies.
In cases involving Liver Qi Stagnation, which can affect blood flow and energy distribution, Yi Guan Jian is effective. This formula helps to soothe the Liver and enhance the smooth flow of Qi, thereby helping to lower blood pressure and alleviate related symptoms.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address primary hypertension, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
Formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
Primary hypertension can be treated by these formulas when it stems from a disharmony between the heart and the mind, often manifesting as emotional disturbances or sleep issues.
One such formula is Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan, with biota seeds as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
Primary hypertension 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 Er Xian Tang, with curculigo rhizome as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
Primary hypertension can be treated by these formulas when it arises from a deficiency in Yin energy, needing nourishment and strengthening of the body's vital essence.
One such formula is Yi Guan Jian
TCM Herbs for Primary Hypertension
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address primary hypertension, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Herbs that nourish the heart and calm the spirit
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Primary hypertension can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Curculigo Rhizomes (Xian Mao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for primary hypertension, like Er Xian Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for primary hypertension
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Curculigo Rhizomes (Xian Mao) | Er Xian Tang |
| Epimedium Herbs (Yin Yang Huo) | Er Xian Tang |
Herbs that nourish the Heart and calm the Spirit
Primary hypertension can be treated by these herbs when it is linked to deficiencies in heart nourishment, addressing both physical and emotional imbalances.
One such herb is Biota Seeds (Bai Zi Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for primary hypertension, like Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Primary hypertension can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for primary hypertension, like Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan.