Atherosclerosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different atherosclerosis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowed and hardened arteries which can severely restrict blood flow. This plaque is composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, this buildup can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or even death, as it limits oxygen-rich blood from reaching vital organs. Known commonly as artery blockage or hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease worldwide.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives atherosclerosis not merely as a disease of the blood vessels but as a symptom of underlying disharmonies within the body’s energetic systems. TCM theory suggests that atherosclerosis results from imbalances such as Blood Deficiency or Stagnation, accumulation of Phlegm, or Heat, which disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Blood through the vessels. This holistic approach underscores the importance of identifying the specific disharmony or pattern before treatment, emphasizing that restoring balance is key to alleviating the condition.
TCM Patterns for Atherosclerosis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause atherosclerosis
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Full (Shi), Deep (Chen), Rapid (Shu)
The tongue is typically reddish-purple, reflecting the combination of Heat (redness) and Blood Stasis (purple hue). Stasis spots or ecchymoses may be visible on the tongue body, particularly towards the root, which corresponds to the lower body. The sublingual veins are often distended, dark, and tortuous, which is one of the most reliable signs of Blood Stasis. The coating tends to be yellow and dry, reflecting interior Heat consuming fluids. In severe or prolonged cases, the tongue surface may appear dry with prickles, indicating intense Heat scorching the Blood.
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Fine (Xi), Rapid (Shu), Wiry (Xian)
The tongue body is red, reflecting deficiency heat from depleted Yin fluids. It tends to be thin and may show cracks, particularly in the centre or at the root, indicating long-standing fluid depletion. The coating is scanty or absent (peeled), sometimes entirely mirror-like. The sides of the tongue may appear redder than the rest, corresponding to Liver heat. The tongue surface is dry and lacks moisture. In some cases there may be geographic peeling at the root area, pointing to Kidney Yin exhaustion.
Herbal Formulas for Atherosclerosis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address atherosclerosis