Heart Disease

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Heart disease in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is approached as a systemic imbalance involving Heart Qi, Blood circulation, and organ network dysfunction, rather than only a structural heart problem.

1. TCM understanding of heart disease

In TCM, the Heart governs:

• Blood circulation

• Shen (mind/spirit)

• Emotional stability

Common patterns include:

• Heart Qi deficiency

• Heart Blood stasis

• Phlegm obstruction of the Heart

• Heart Yin deficiency

2. Why TCM is used

🔹 (1) Improves blood circulation

• Promotes Qi and Blood flow

• Reduces blood stasis (瘀血)

• Supports microcirculation

🔹 (2) Protects cardiovascular function

TCM may help:

• Regulate heart rhythm

• Improve chest discomfort (angina-like symptoms)

• Support vascular flexibility

🔹 (3) Reduces symptoms

Common symptoms managed:

• Chest tightness or pain

• Palpitations

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Anxiety or insomnia

🔹 (4) Modulates stress and autonomic system

• Calms Shen (心神)

• Reduces sympathetic overactivity (stress response)

• Improves sleep and emotional balance

🔹 (5) Supports long-term management

TCM is often used to:

• Prevent recurrence

• Improve quality of life

• Support recovery after cardiac events

3. Clinical role (important)

TCM is:

• Adjunct therapy, not a replacement for emergency cardiac care

• Used alongside medications such as antihypertensives or anticoagulants

TCM treats heart disease by improving circulation, regulating organ balance, calming the mind, and reducing systemic stress on the cardiovascular system.