Cluster Headache in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different cluster headache patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Cluster headaches are a form of headache that is marked by sudden, severe pain, typically occurring around one eye or temple. These headaches often come in clusters, appearing cyclically and unexpectedly over weeks or months, followed by remission periods when the headaches stop. Due to the intensity and cyclical nature, they are often considered one of the most painful types of headaches.
In the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cluster headaches are seen as a manifestation of an imbalance within the body’s energetic system. TCM does not view these headaches as isolated incidents but as signals of deeper disharmony, potentially involving the Liver, Gallbladder, and meridians that traverse the head.
Identifying the precise pattern of imbalance is crucial for TCM practitioners, as it guides the bespoke treatment plan, which could include herbal remedies, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments.
Herbal Formulas for Cluster Headache
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address cluster headache