Neurological Hiccupaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Hiccup Conditions
Parent symptom: Hiccups
What is Neurological Hiccup?
Neurological hiccups arise from nerve disturbances that trigger involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, leading to the characteristic hiccup sound. Unlike common hiccups that are short-lived, neurological hiccups can be persistent and may indicate underlying neurological issues.
They are a specialized subset of hiccups, where the cause is more deeply rooted in the body's nervous system, sometimes linked to nerve damage, irritation, or disorders affecting the brain and its pathways.
How does TCM view Neurological Hiccup?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), neurological hiccups are seen through the lens of internal disharmony, specifically relating to the flow and balance of Qi (vital energy) and the impact of external pathogenic factors on the body's organs. TCM doesn't categorize hiccups based on modern neurological definitions but focuses on the symptom's manifestation as a sign of disruption in the body's energy system.
Identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony is crucial for treatment, as it guides the selection of specific herbs and acupoints to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.
Causes of Neurological Hiccup According to TCM
TCM attributes neurological hiccups to several potential patterns of disharmony, often involving a disruption in the flow of Qi or the balance of Yin and Yang within the body. For instance, a common cause could be Rebellious Qi, where the Qi of the Stomach moves upwards instead of downwards, leading to hiccups.
Another possible cause is the invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind or Cold, disrupting the smooth flow of Qi and affecting the stomach and liver's functions. Understanding these patterns allows TCM practitioners to tailor treatments that address both the symptoms and their root causes.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Neurological Hiccup
To treat neurological hiccups, TCM practitioners may turn to specific formulas that harmonize the stomach, subdue Rebellious Qi, and restore the proper direction of Qi flow. Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang is one such formula, featuring Cloves (Ding Xiang) as a key herb, known for its warming properties and ability to correct the flow of Qi.
This formula is particularly suited for cases where hiccups are caused by Rebellious Qi, whether it stems from the liver invading the stomach or directly from Rebellious Stomach Qi itself. By selecting the appropriate herbal formula, TCM aims to restore internal harmony and alleviate the discomfort associated with neurological hiccups.
See more details below about Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang, a herbal formula used to address neurological hiccup.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas for a rebellious qi
Formulas for a rebellious Qi
Neurological hiccup can be treated by these formulas if it is caused by the disruption of Qi flow, that causes the normal movement of body processes to go the wrong way.
One such formula is Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang, with cloves as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Neurological Hiccup
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address neurological hiccup, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Herbs that regulate qi
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Neurological hiccup can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Cloves (Ding Xiang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neurological hiccup, like Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang.
Herbs that regulate Qi
Neurological hiccup 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 Persimmon Calyxes (Shi Di), a key herb in some formulas recommended for neurological hiccup, like Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang.