In Chinese medicine, many symptoms of high blood pressure, such as headaches, dizziness, and pressure behind the eyes, are often associated with liver yang rising or liver heat. It is important to see a doctor to make a proper diagnosis and monitor high blood pressure, but acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be helpful in managing your condition. Some herbs have been shown to have antihypertensive effect. Some other herbs have been shown to be effective in controlling cholesterol levels and improving heart function. Acupuncture has been shown to have a general soothing effect, which can be effective in stress-related or essential hypertension. In addition, certain points are commonly used in the treatment of forms associated with high blood pressure.
One of the most commonly used herbs for symptoms and forms related to high blood pressure is thin mango or gastonia rhizome. Research in China shows that it is effective in treating high blood pressure related symptoms such as dizziness, joint numbness, tinnitus, headache and pain behind the eyes. It can have a dizzying and calming effect. It has been proven to be effective for kidney hypertension and essential hypertension. Another useful herb is yeo ju hua or chrysanthemum flower, which has been proven to have a long-term effect in lowering blood pressure by dilating the peripheral vessels. It has also been shown to increase blood flow to the heart. Xia Guo or Brunella is another herb that is used to relieve heat in the liver and is commonly used for eye problems that are beneficial for high blood pressure. Chinese research shows that it has a mild vasodilating effect. These herbs are often used in conjunction with Oriental medicine practitioners in the treatment of high blood pressure related forms.
Other herbs may be helpful in improving heart and circulatory function. They also help lower cholesterol. Shawn Ja, or hawthorn berry, has been shown to reduce fat when taken for six weeks or more. It is often used in China to improve circulation and treat angina pectoris. Another herb commonly used in China for cardiovascular problems is tanshen or salvia. It has also been shown to lower cholesterol. It can improve microcirculation in the body. In China, Tan Shen tablets are used to treat angina and coronary heart disease. It helps to promote tissue repair and regeneration by increasing the body’s metabolism.
Some acupuncture points are also effective in treating high blood pressure related forms. Many people know that large intestine 4 can help control headaches. It is located on the back of the hand between the thumb and forefinger. It is also a commonly used point for blood pressure related forms. Another point at the top of the head, the Du 20, is commonly used. An acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist will always take a list of symptoms, look at a person's tongue and feel a person's pulse, and determine the specific combination of points and herbs a person needs. Different people with high blood pressure are treated differently depending on how they are.
While I was in China, I did medical tests in the cardiology department at Chengdu Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital. Modern medicine and diagnostic tools have been used in conjunction with Chinese herbs and acupuncture to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, heart enlargement and stroke. I have seen Chinese herbs like tan shen given intravenously and by injection. Conditions were diagnosed using modern science and traditional Chinese diagnosis. Medications were used to control symptoms and for emergencies. As the condition of the people improved with Chinese herbs and acupuncture, their doctors slowly adjusted the dosage of the medicines they received. The results I have seen are better than those achieved in any drug form alone. We do not benefit from experiencing more of the deeper combinations of modern medicine and ancient techniques in Western countries. Nevertheless, I hope that one day we will be closer to achieving an integrated treatment system in Western countries as people learn more about the benefits of Asian medicine.
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