Neuropathic Headacheaccording to TCM
What is Neuropathic Headache?
Neuropathic headaches arise from nerve-related issues, characterized by a persistent, often debilitating pain that stems from nerve damage or dysfunction. These headaches differ from standard headaches due to their underlying neurogenic causes, which can make them particularly resistant to conventional pain relief methods.
How does TCM view Neuropathic Headache
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets neuropathic headache as a signal of internal disharmony, specifically an imbalance in Qi flow and disruption caused by external pathogenic factors or a Deficiency within the body's organ systems.
TCM seeks to identify the specific pattern of imbalance, such as Exterior Wind or a Deficiency in Stomach Yang, to effectively tailor a treatment that addresses the root cause and not just the symptom.
Cause of Neuropathic Headache According to TCM
According to TCM, a neuropathic headache can be the result of Exterior Wind invading the Channels, leading to symptoms such as pain that migrates or is triggered by windy conditions.
On the other hand, a Stomach Yang Deficiency with Empty Cold pattern may present as a cold sensation in the Stomach area with pain, reflecting a deeper Deficiency and a propensity for Cold to penetrate the body, disrupting the normal flow of Qi and Blood.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Neuropathic Headache
In addressing neuropathic headaches, TCM relies on herbal formulas aligned with the diagnosed pattern. For Exterior Wind, a formula like Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San, which includes Szechuan Lovage Roots, is used to expel Wind and alleviate headache symptoms.
When the pattern is identified as Stomach Yang Deficiency and Cold, a warming formula such as Wu Zhu Yu Tang, featuring Evodia Fruits, is employed to restore the Deficient Yang and dispel Cold, thereby treating the root of the headache.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address neuropathic headache, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
- Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
Formulas that dredge and disperse External Wind
Neuropathic headache can be treated by these formulas when it results from external wind invasion disrupting the body's surface and normal function, requiring wind-dispersing actions.
One such formula is Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San, with szechuan lovage root as a key herb.
Formulas that warm the middle and dispel Cold
Neuropathic headache can be treated by these formulas when it is due to cold in the middle jiao (digestive region), necessitating warming and cold-dispelling actions.
One such formula is Wu Zhu Yu Tang, with evodia fruit as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Neuropathic Headache
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address neuropathic headache, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Neuropathic headache can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Angelica Roots (Bai Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neuropathic headache, like Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for neuropathic headache
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Angelica Roots (Bai Zhi) | Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San |
| Notopterygium Roots (Qiang Huo) | Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San |
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Neuropathic headache 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 Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neuropathic headache, like Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San.
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Neuropathic headache can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Evodia Fruits (Wu Zhu Yu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neuropathic headache, like Wu Zhu Yu Tang.