Renal Hypertensionaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Kidney and Nephritic Disorders
What is Renal Hypertension?
Renal hypertension, also known as kidney high blood pressure, is a specific type of hypertension caused by kidney disease. It often arises from conditions that disrupt normal kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease or renal artery stenosis, leading to elevated blood pressure.
Renal hypertension can be a serious condition, as it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and further kidney damage. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial to control blood pressure and prevent additional complications.
How does TCM view Renal Hypertension?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on renal hypertension, diverging from the primarily physiological focus of Western medicine. TCM views this condition as a result of imbalances and disharmonies within the body's energy systems.
It emphasizes that renal hypertension can arise from various patterns of disharmony, including disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) , Blood and imbalances in the Yin and Yang. Identifying these underlying patterns is crucial in TCM, as each requires a unique treatment approach to restore balance and address the condition effectively.
Causes of Renal Hypertension According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), renal hypertension is often attributed to the disturbance of 'Internal Wind', particularly related to Liver function. This concept explains how disruptions in the Liver's role in maintaining smooth Qi (vital energy) and Blood flow can lead to elevated blood pressure.
Factors such as emotional stress or frustration might contribute to this imbalance, stirring up Internal Wind and leading to hypertension. TCM emphasizes addressing this underlying cause, focusing on restoring balance within the liver's energy and the body’s yin and yang, to effectively manage renal hypertension.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Renal Hypertension
TCM utilizes specific formulas and herbs to address renal hypertension, tailoring treatment to the identified patterns of disharmony. Formulas like Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, which includes Gastrodia Rhizomes, are used for their ability to pacify Internal Liver Wind. This formula targets the Liver, helping to regulate blood pressure.
Additionally, Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, containing Achyranthes Roots, is employed to invigorate the Blood and target the Kidney and Liver. These treatments reflect TCM's strategy to not only alleviate symptoms but also to address deeper imbalances, promoting overall health and well-being.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address renal hypertension, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
Renal hypertension 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 Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, with gastrodia rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for renal hypertension
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma), Gambir Stems And Thorns (Gou Teng) |
| Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi) |
TCM Herbs for Renal Hypertension
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address renal hypertension, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that pacify internal liver wind and stop tremors
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors
Renal hypertension can be treated by these herbs when caused by internal wind from Liver disharmony, often manifesting in symptoms like spasms or tremors.
One such herb is Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma), a key herb in some formulas recommended for renal hypertension, like Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors" recommended for renal hypertension
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin |
| Gambir Stems And Thorns (Gou Teng) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin |
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Renal hypertension 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 Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for renal hypertension, like Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang.