In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), symptoms of high blood pressure, including headaches, dizziness, and eye pressure, are often linked to Liver Yang Rising or Liver Heat. While consulting a physician for diagnosis and management is crucial, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can offer complementary support. Certain herbs possess anti-hypertensive properties, while others aid in cholesterol control and cardiovascular function. Acupuncture promotes relaxation, benefiting stress-related or essential hypertension. Specific acupuncture points target patterns associated with high blood pressure.
Tian Ma (gastrodia rhizome) is a commonly used herb for high blood pressure symptoms. Research indicates its effectiveness in alleviating dizziness, extremity numbness, tinnitus, headaches, and eye pain. It may also have sedative and tranquilizing effects, proving useful for renal and essential hypertension. Ye Ju Hua (chrysanthemum flower) can lower blood pressure through peripheral vessel dilation and boost heart blood flow. Xia Ku Cao (prunella) clears Liver Heat, benefiting eye problems linked to high blood pressure, and exhibits a moderate vasodilating effect. TCM practitioners often combine these herbs to address patterns related to hypertension.
Other herbs can enhance heart and circulatory function and reduce cholesterol. Shan Zha (hawthorn berries) lowers cholesterol when taken consistently. In China, it’s used to improve circulation and treat angina pectoris. Dan Shen (Salvia), another herb used for cardiovascular problems, reduces cholesterol and improves microcirculation. Dan Shen pills are used in China for angina and coronary heart disease, potentially promoting tissue repair by boosting metabolism.
Acupuncture points also play a role in treating high blood pressure patterns. Large Intestine 4, located on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger, is known for headache relief and is commonly used for blood pressure issues. Du 20, at the head’s vertex, is another frequently used point. A practitioner assesses symptoms, tongue, and pulse to customize point and herb combinations. Individualized treatment is essential, as different people with high blood pressure require unique approaches based on their specific patterns.
During clinical experience in China, I observed the integration of modern medicine with TCM at the Chengdu Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital’s cardiology department. Conditions like high blood pressure, angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmias, heart enlargement, and stroke were treated using drugs, diagnostic equipment, herbs, and acupuncture. Even herbs like Dan Shen were administered intravenously and through injection. Diagnoses combined modern science with traditional Chinese methods. Drugs were used for symptom management and emergencies. As patients improved with herbs and acupuncture, medication dosages were gradually reduced. These combined approaches yielded superior results compared to either medicine alone. While such integration isn’t yet widespread in the West, increasing awareness of Asian medicine’s benefits may pave the way for more integrated care, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and fewer side effects.