Coronary Artery Diseaseaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Cardiac Disorders
Parent symptom: Cardiovascular Disease
Did you mean? Coronary Artery Disease Coronary Artery Disease
What is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease, is the most common type of cardiovascular disease. It occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed due to the buildup of cholesterol and other materials, known as plaque. This can reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, heart attacks. Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, making its prevention and treatment critical components of cardiovascular health management.
How does TCM View Coronary Artery Disease?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views coronary artery disease not just as a problem of the heart or blood vessels but as a manifestation of deeper imbalances within the body's vital energy, or Qi. According to TCM, the health of the heart is connected to the overall harmony of internal organs and the circulation of Qi and Blood. Disease arises when there is stagnation or imbalance in these energies, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment that restores balance and enhances the body’s natural healing abilities.
Causes of Coronary Artery Disease According to TCM
In TCM, coronary artery disease is often attributed to patterns such as Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis. Qi Stagnation can occur within the chest area, leading to chest pain and circulatory problems reminiscent of angina. Blood Stasis, meanwhile, refers to the obstruction of Blood flow, which can manifest in symptoms similar to those of coronary artery disease.
These patterns reflect an underlying disharmony in the flow of energy and Blood, and their identification is crucial for targeting treatment that aims to invigorate the blood and resolve stagnation, thereby alleviating symptoms and preventing disease progression.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Coronary Artery Disease
TCM offers several herbal formulas to treat patterns associated with coronary artery disease. For example, Xuan Fu Hua Tang and Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang are prescribed to invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation, which is crucial for alleviating symptoms of Qi Stagnation in the chest and improving Blood flow. These formulas contain herbs like Inula Flowers and Peach Kernels, which are specifically chosen for their properties that address heart and circulatory issues.
Another formula, Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang, uses Cinnamon twigs to warm the Interior and boost the heart's energy. These treatments reflect TCM’s comprehensive approach, aiming not only to relieve symptoms but also to restore the body’s balance and health.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address coronary artery disease, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
- Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
- Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
- Formulas that regulate blood
- Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
- Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
- Formulas that tonify qi and blood
- Formulas that clear qi-level heat
- Formulas that warm interior cold
Formulas that invigorate Blood and dispel Blood Stagnation
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas if it arises from poor blood circulation or stagnation of blood, which often manifests in pain or swelling.
One such formula is Xuan Fu Hua Tang, with inula flower as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Xuan Fu Hua Tang | Inula Flowers (Xuan Fu Hua) |
| Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), Safflowers (Hong Hua), Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) |
Formulas that Release the Exterior and Warm the Interior
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it stems from external cold invasion affecting the body, requiring treatments that expel cold and warm the interior.
One such formula is Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang, with cinnamon twigs as a key herb.
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas if it is due to cold-dampness obstructing the body's functions, requiring warming and damp-transforming actions.
One such formula is Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, with poria-cocos mushroom as a key herb.
Formulas that regulate Blood
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it stems from irregularities or imbalances in the blood, which may affect circulation or cause other blood-related issues.
One such formula is Bu Yang Huang Wu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Formulas that Release the Exterior and Clear the Interior
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it arises from external pathogenic factors affecting the body's surface, coupled with internal disharmony.
One such formula is Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang, with kudzu root as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas in cases of imbalances in the lesser Yang (Shao Yang) phase, which often involve alternating hot and cold sensations.
One such formula is Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, with sweet wormwood herb as a key herb.
Formulas that warm the Meridians and disperse Cold
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas if it results from cold obstructing the meridians, leading to pain or stiffness, requiring warming and dispersing actions.
One such formula is Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it arises from a deficiency in Yin energy, needing nourishment and strengthening of the body's vital essence.
One such formula is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Qi
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas if it results from Qi deficiency, necessitating treatments that boost the body's vital energy.
One such formula is Sheng Mai San, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that harmonize Liver-Spleen
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when there's an imbalance between the Liver and Spleen systems, often manifesting as digestive disturbances and emotional fluctuations.
One such formula is Si Ni San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it is due to internal wind, which is often associated with spasms, tremors, or dizziness.
One such formula is Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, with achyranthes root as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Qi and Blood
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when there is a combined deficiency of both Qi and Blood, requiring comprehensive tonification.
One such formula is Zhi Gan Cao Tang, with liquorice as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Qi-level Heat
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it results from an intense heat condition at the qi level, affecting the body's energy flow.
One such formula is Zhi Zi Chi Tang, with cape jasmine fruit as a key herb.
Formulas that warm Interior Cold
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these formulas when it is caused by an internal cold condition, needing treatments that warm the body's interior.
One such formula is Dang Gui Si Ni Tang, with dong quai as a key herb.
Acupoints for Coronary Artery Disease
TCM also incorporates acupuncture in the treatment of coronary artery disease, targeting specific acupoints to enhance therapeutic outcomes. One such point is Jueyinshu BL-14, located near the spine, which is used to regulate heart function, open the chest, and ease pain.
This acupoint is part of the Bladder Channel, which is integral to treating heart-related symptoms according to TCM principles. By stimulating this point, practitioners aim to improve energy flow, reduce chest discomfort, and support overall heart health, demonstrating the integrated approach of TCM in managing complex diseases like coronary artery disease.
See more details below about Jueyinshu BL-14, an acupoint used to address coronary artery disease.
- By Meridian
- Bladder Channel
Jueyinshu BL-14
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4).
TCM Herbs for Coronary Artery Disease
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address coronary artery disease, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Herbs that open the orifices
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Peach Kernels (Tao Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that invigorate the Blood" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Peach Kernels (Tao Ren) | Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang |
| Safflowers (Hong Hua) | Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang |
| Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong) | Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang |
| Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi) | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang | Sheng Mai San |
| Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) | Bu Yang Huang Wu Tang | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang |
| Liquorice (Gan Cao) | Zhi Gan Cao Tang |
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Kudzu Roots (Ge Gen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Kudzu Roots (Ge Gen) | Ge Geng Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang |
| Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu) | Si Ni San |
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao) | Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang |
| Cape Jasmine Fruits (Zhi Zi) | Zhi Zi Chi Tang |
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for coronary artery disease
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan |
| Dong Quai (Dang Gui) | Dang Gui Si Ni Tang |
Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs if it stems from disturbances in the Shen (spirit), often due to instability in the heart and kidney energies.
One such herb is Amber (Hu Po), which is directly recommended for coronary artery disease.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Sandalwood (Tan Xiang), which is directly recommended for coronary artery disease.
Herbs that open the Orifices
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs if it's a result of blockages in the body's sensory orifices, aiding in restoring clarity and consciousness.
One such herb is Styrax (Su He Xiang), which is directly recommended for coronary artery disease.
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Cinnamon Twigs (Gui Zhi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Baikal Skullcap Roots (Huang Qin), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang.
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Coronary artery disease can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Inula Flowers (Xuan Fu Hua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for coronary artery disease, like Xuan Fu Hua Tang.