Cerebrovascular Disease in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different cerebrovascular disease patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Cerebrovascular disease encompasses a range of conditions that affect the blood vessels and blood flow in the brain. The most common forms of this disease include strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), and cerebral vascular insufficiency. These disorders can lead to significant health problems, potentially causing permanent brain damage, disability, or even death if not promptly treated. Cerebrovascular disease is a critical health issue that can result from several factors, including thrombosis, embolism, or systemic circulatory breakdowns that reduce cerebral blood flow.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets cerebrovascular disease through the lens of energy flow disruptions and elemental imbalances within the body. According to TCM, the free flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood is essential for good health, and any blockage or Deficiency can lead to diseases like stroke.
TCM stresses the importance of identifying the underlying patterns of disharmony causing these symptoms to effectively address the root causes of the disease and not just the symptoms themselves. This holistic approach aims to restore the body's balance and prevent the progression of the disease.
TCM Patterns for Cerebrovascular Disease
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause cerebrovascular disease
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Full (Shi)
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Empty (Xu), Wiry (Xian), Fine (Xi), Floating (Fu)
Red, pale normal color with no coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Red swollen tongue with a sticky yellow coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Cerebrovascular Disease
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address cerebrovascular disease