Atrial Fibrillationaccording to TCM

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate that disrupts the flow of blood through the heart. In atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers (atria) experience chaotic electrical signals, causing them to quiver ineffectively instead of beating in a strong, rhythmic pattern. This condition can lead to a variety of complications, including increased risk of stroke and heart failure. It may present with symptoms like heart palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath, or it could be discovered incidentally during a physical examination.

How Does TCM View Atrial Fibrillation?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on atrial fibrillation, viewing it not as an isolated cardiac issue but as a manifestation of deeper systemic imbalances. TCM posits that atrial fibrillation is typically the result of disturbances in the body’s energetic harmony, specifically involving the Heart and related organs.

The correct identification of the underlying disharmony pattern—whether it is related to Qi, Blood, or Yin Deficiency—is critical, as treatments are tailored to these specific imbalances to restore equilibrium and heart function.

Causes of Atrial Fibrillation According to TCM

From the viewpoint of TCM, atrial fibrillation can arise from several patterns of disharmony, but two primary causes stand out. One is Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency, which suggests that a lack of vital energy and nutrients in these organs can lead to ineffective blood regulation and heart rhythm disturbances.

Another common pattern is general Qi and Blood Deficiency, where weakened overall energy fails to assist the Heart in maintaining a steady rhythm. These examples illustrate how TCM seeks to understand and treat the root causes of symptoms, rather than merely addressing the symptoms themselves.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Atrial Fibrillation

To manage atrial fibrillation, TCM emphasizes restoring balance with specific herbal formulas based on the identified patterns. For treating Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency, the formula Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang, which includes White Peony Roots (Bai Shao), is recommended. This formula aims to nourish the Blood and harmonize the Liver, addressing the root of the Blood Deficiency.

For cases involving overall Qi and Blood Deficiency, Zhi Gan Cao Tang with Liquorice (Gan Cao) is used to enhance the Qi, supporting both Lung and Heart function. These formulas highlight TCM’s holistic approach to treating complex conditions like atrial fibrillation by focusing on the underlying disharmonies.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address atrial fibrillation, organized by formula type.

TCM Herbs for Atrial Fibrillation

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address atrial fibrillation, organized by herb category.