Cysticercosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different cysticercosis patterns according to TCM theory
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Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium. This disease occurs when a person ingests eggs from the tapeworm, often through contaminated food or water. Once inside the body, the eggs develop into larvae, which can travel through the bloodstream and lodge in various tissues, forming cysts.
These cysts most commonly affect the muscles, brain, and eyes, leading to a range of symptoms such as seizures, muscle pain, and vision problems. If left untreated, cysticercosis can cause serious, even life-threatening, complications.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cysticercosis is viewed as a condition caused by external pathogenic factors, such as Damp-Heat, combined with an internal imbalance of Qi and Blood. TCM sees the presence of parasites as a manifestation of these deeper imbalances within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on eradicating the parasites, TCM aims to restore harmony within the body by addressing the underlying patterns of disharmony. This holistic approach involves identifying the specific pattern affecting the patient and then using tailored treatments to expel the parasites while strengthening the body's defenses.
Herbal Formulas for Cysticercosis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address cysticercosis