Atherosclerosisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Arterial Hardening
Did you mean? Arteriosclerosis
What is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowed and hardened arteries which can severely restrict blood flow. This plaque is composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, this buildup can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or even death, as it limits oxygen-rich blood from reaching vital organs. Known commonly as artery blockage or hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease worldwide.
How Does TCM View Atherosclerosis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives atherosclerosis not merely as a disease of the blood vessels but as a symptom of underlying disharmonies within the body’s energetic systems. TCM theory suggests that atherosclerosis results from imbalances such as Blood Deficiency or Stagnation, accumulation of Phlegm, or Heat, which disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Blood through the vessels. This holistic approach underscores the importance of identifying the specific disharmony or pattern before treatment, emphasizing that restoring balance is key to alleviating the condition.
Causes of Atherosclerosis According to TCM
TCM identifies several potential energetic imbalances that contribute to atherosclerosis, among which Blood Stagnation and Yin Deficiency are particularly noteworthy. Blood Stagnation, which involves the improper flow of Blood through the vessels, is seen as a direct parallel to the physical buildup of plaque. Symptoms associated with this pattern might include cold extremities, dark clots in menstrual blood, and sharp, stabbing pains at fixed locations.
On the other hand, Yin Deficiency can lead to an Excess of Heat, which might dry up Body Fluids and contribute to the thickening of the blood. This understanding guides TCM practitioners in their comprehensive approach to treatment, which aims to invigorate blood circulation and nourish the body’s Yin.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Atherosclerosis
In tackling atherosclerosis, TCM relies on a variety of herbal formulas tailored to address the underlying patterns identified during diagnosis. For conditions marked by Yin Deficiency and Blood Stagnation, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, which contains Prepared Rehmannia to nourish Yin and subdue rising Yang, is often prescribed. Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, featuring Peach Kernels, is utilized to invigorate blood circulation and clear Blood Stagnation, particularly in the lower burner of the body.
Additionally, for cases involving significant Heat and toxicity, Xie Xin Tang with Rhubarb is recommended to clear Heat and resolve toxicity, particularly affecting the heart and pericardium. These formulations highlight TCM’s nuanced approach to cardiovascular health, aiming not only to treat symptoms but also to restore holistic balance.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address atherosclerosis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
Atherosclerosis 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 Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Atherosclerosis 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.
Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity
Atherosclerosis can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity if it arises from heat toxins affecting the body.
One such formula is Xie Xin Tang, with rhubarb as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Atherosclerosis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address atherosclerosis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that relieve food stagnation
- Herbs that clear liver heat and brighten the eyes
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
Herbs that relieve Food Stagnation
Atherosclerosis can be treated by these herbs in cases of digestive disturbances due to overeating or consuming hard-to-digest foods, assisting in breaking down and moving food through the digestive system.
One such herb is Amur Rose Fruits (Ci Mei Guo), which is directly recommended for atherosclerosis.
Herbs that clear Liver Heat and brighten the eyes
Atherosclerosis can be treated by these herbs if it is a result of Liver heat affecting the eyes, working to cool the Liver and improve eye health.
One such herb is Cassia Seeds (Jue Ming Zi), which is directly recommended for atherosclerosis.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Atherosclerosis can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for atherosclerosis, like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Atherosclerosis 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 atherosclerosis, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Atherosclerosis 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 atherosclerosis, like Tao He Cheng Qi Tang.