Hypertensive Encephalopathyaccording to TCM

What is Hypertensive Encephalopathy?

Hypertensive encephalopathy represents a severe and acute neurological disorder triggered by significantly elevated blood pressure. It manifests as a constellation of symptoms including headaches, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. This condition epitomizes a critical emergency where the brain swells due to uncontrolled hypertension, leading to cerebral dysfunction. Its synonyms, such as brain dysfunction due to high blood pressure and cerebral complications of elevated blood pressure, hint at the direct impact hypertension has on neurological well-being, emphasizing the urgency and severity of managing high blood pressure levels effectively.

How does TCM view Hypertensive Encephalopathy?

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hypertensive encephalopathy is approached through the lens of systemic disharmony and imbalance. TCM does not view symptoms in isolation but considers them manifestations of deeper underlying imbalances within the body's Qi, Yin, Yang, and Blood.

Causes of Hypertensive Encephalopathy According to TCM

Hypertensive encephalopathy, with its roots in elevated blood pressure and consequent neurological symptoms, is often associated with disturbances in the Liver's function, particularly the ascent of Liver Yang or the stirring of Internal Wind, reflecting a more holistic understanding of health and disease.

These patterns describe a state where excessive Yang energy causes a disturbance, leading to symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, and even convulsions — akin to the clinical presentation of hypertensive encephalopathy. The Liver, tasked with ensuring the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body, when imbalanced, can lead to the ascension of Yang energy, manifesting in elevated blood pressure and its cerebral complications. This perspective emphasizes the need to restore harmony and balance within the body’s energetic systems to address the root causes of the condition.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Hypertensive Encephalopathy

In treating hypertensive encephalopathy, TCM focuses on formulas that pacify Liver Yang, extinguish Internal Wind, and restore balance. Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, leveraging the calming properties of Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma), is frequently utilized to address the upward flare of Liver Yang and the agitation of Liver Wind, both of which are crucial in the onset of hypertensive encephalopathy.

Similarly, Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, with Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi) as a key component, is used for its ability to quell Internal Wind and stabilize Liver Yang. These formulas embody TCM’s approach to treating hypertensive encephalopathy by targeting the underlying patterns of disharmony, aiming for a holistic restoration of health.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address hypertensive encephalopathy, organized by formula type.

TCM Herbs for Hypertensive Encephalopathy

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