Endocarditisaccording to TCM

What is endocarditis?

Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves, known medically as the endocardium. Typically caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and attaching to damaged areas of the heart, endocarditis can result in life-threatening complications if untreated. Symptoms might include fever, heart murmurs, fatigue, and signs of stroke. The condition requires prompt medical attention, often needing strong antibiotics and sometimes surgical intervention to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

How does TCM view endocarditis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches endocarditis not just as an infection, but as a complex interplay of internal disharmonies and external pathogens disrupting heart functions. TCM stresses the importance of discerning the specific patterns of disharmony manifesting as symptoms, as this diagnosis guides the therapeutic strategy. Such patterns might involve imbalances in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang, or the invasion of external factors like Heat or Dampness. Identifying and treating these patterns holistically is essential to restore and maintain heart health according to TCM principles.

Causes of Endocarditis According to TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the symptoms resembling endocarditis may arise from various imbalances within the body. Notably, Heart Blood Deficiency is a key pattern where the Heart does not receive adequate nourishment, leading to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, and in more severe cases, manifestations akin to endocarditis.

Another significant cause is Heart Qi Deficiency, characterized by fatigue, shortness of breath, and a weak pulse. These conditions highlight the complexity of diagnosing and treating such symptoms in TCM, emphasizing a holistic approach that addresses the specific underlying imbalances unique to each patient.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Endocarditis

To treat conditions like endocarditis, Traditional Chinese Medicine might suggest specific herbal formulas based on the individual’s diagnosed imbalance. For patterns such as Heart Blood Deficiency and Heart Qi Deficiency, a commonly recommended formula is Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang.

This formula includes key ingredients like Biota seeds (Bai Zi Ren), known for their sweet and neutral qualities, which help to nourish the Heart's Blood and stabilize the Heart's energy. The choice of herbs and formulas in TCM is carefully tailored to each patient's unique symptoms and underlying disharmony, aiming to restore balance and alleviate heart-related symptoms effectively.

See more details below about Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan, a herbal formula used to address endocarditis.

TCM Herbs for Endocarditis

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