TCM Understanding of Hypertension
TCM theory classifies hypertension under "vertigo" and "headache" categories, primarily caused by liver yang hyperactivity, kidney yin deficiency, and phlegm-dampness internal obstruction. TCM emphasizes holistic regulation through syndrome differentiation to achieve yin-yang balance.
"Superior physicians treat disease before it arises; TCM focuses on prevention and holistic regulation." - Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon
Herbal Treatment Plans
Common antihypertensive herbs include gastrodia, uncaria, prunella, and cassia seeds. Different formulas are selected based on patterns, like gastrodia-uncaria decoction for liver yang hyperactivity type and six-ingredient rehmannia pill for kidney yin nourishment.
Herbal treatments require professional TCM practitioner guidance, with adjustments based on individual constitution and condition changes. Never self-prescribe to avoid drug interactions.
Acupuncture Therapy
Acupuncture treats hypertension by regulating nerve function and improving circulation. Common points include GV20, GB20, LR3, and SP6, stimulating specific points for降压 effects.
Electroacupuncture and auricular acupuncture also show good降压 results. Recommended treatment frequency is 2-3 sessions weekly, 10-15 sessions per course. Monitor blood pressure changes during treatment.
Tuina Massage
Head, face, neck, and shoulder tuina massage relieves vascular tension and promotes circulation. Massage太阳穴 (taiyang), GB20 (风池), and肩井 (jianjing) points.
Self-massage serves as daily healthcare. Use gentle techniques without excessive force. Massage 15-20 minutes, preferably before bedtime.
Dietary Therapy
TCM emphasizes medicinal food homology, using dietary therapy to辅助降压. Celery juice, hawthorn tea, and cassia seed tea have certain antihypertensive effects.
Eat light foods favoring yin-nourishing and fire-purging, liver-pacifying and yang-subduing items. Avoid spicy stimulants and control salt intake.
Qigong and Tai Chi
Traditional practices like tai chi and八段锦 regulate qi and blood, relieving mental stress. These moderate-intensity exercises suit hypertension patients.
Practice movements slowly with coordinated breathing. Recommend daily 30-minute sessions, ideally during清晨 (early morning) with fresh air.
Lifestyle Cultivation
TCM emphasizes daily life cultivation. Maintain regular routines, avoiding late nights and overexertion. Emotional regulation is equally important—maintain cheerful moods.
Adjust lifestyles seasonally: nourish liver in spring, heart in summer, lungs in autumn, and kidneys in winter. Seasonal cultivation helps maintain bodily balance.
Integrated Chinese-Western Treatment
Integrated treatment combines strengths of both approaches. Western medicine stabilizes blood pressure while TCM regulates constitution, reducing side effects.
When receiving TCM while taking Western drugs, inform doctors about all medications to avoid conflicts. Regular follow-ups enable treatment adjustments based on condition.