Fast Heartbeataccording to TCM
Symptom family: Heart Rhythm Disorders
Sub-symptom(s): Supraventricular Tachycardia Paroxysmal Tachycardia
Did you mean? Arrhythmia
What is Fast Heartbeat?
A fast heartbeat, medically referred to as tachycardia, is a condition where the heart unusually races even when at rest. Typically, a normal heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. When the heart exceeds this rate, it may be described as having a fast heartbeat, which can occur in various forms such as supraventricular tachycardia and paroxysmal tachycardia. While often benign, a persistently rapid heartbeat can signal underlying issues and may require medical evaluation to rule out cardiovascular diseases or other medical conditions.
How Does TCM View Fast Heartbeat?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a fast heartbeat is seen as a symptom of imbalance rather than a condition itself. Unlike Western medicine that focuses on the Heart and its electrical impulses, TCM examines this symptom through the lens of energy, or Qi, flow and the balance of the body’s fundamental substances.
Diagnosing the correct pattern of disharmony—be it from Qi Deficiency, Yin Deficiency, or excess Heat—is essential. Treatment is aimed at correcting the specific imbalance, thus addressing the root cause rather than just alleviating symptoms.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Fast Heartbeat
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address fast heartbeat, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that tonify qi and blood
Formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
Fast heartbeat 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 Ding Zhi Wan, with ginseng as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind" recommended for fast heartbeat
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Ding Zhi Wan | Ginseng (Ren Shen) |
| Suan Zao Ren Tang | Jujube Seeds (Suan Zao Ren) |
Acupoints for Fast Heartbeat
TCM suggests specific acupoints on the Bladder Channel to help manage a fast heartbeat by targeting the underlying imbalances associated with this symptom. The Feishu BL-13 point is located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3). Activating this point can tonify Lung Qi, nourish Lung Yin, and clear Lung Heat, which are crucial actions for regulating the heart rate.
Another vital point, Jueyinshu BL-14, found at a similar distance lateral to the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4), focuses on regulating the heart and opening the chest, which helps ease pain and stabilize heart functions. Utilizing these acupoints, practitioners aim to restore balance and ensure the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, thereby reducing the occurrences of a fast heartbeat.
Explore below some acupoints used to address fast heartbeat, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Bladder Channel
Feishu BL-13
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3).
Jueyinshu BL-14
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4).
TCM Herbs for Fast Heartbeat
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address fast heartbeat, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Fast heartbeat 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 Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for fast heartbeat, like Ding Zhi Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for fast heartbeat
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Ding Zhi Wan | Gui Pi Tang |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Gui Pi Tang |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Gui Pi Tang |
| Liquorice (Gan Cao) | Gui Pi Tang |