TCM Approaches to Regulating the Liver and Spleen: Improving Dizziness and Vertigo
Vertigo and Dizziness are very common clinical symptoms. They can range from mild discomfort to severe cases accompanied by nausea and vomiting, significantly impacting daily life. The causes of dizziness are diverse, ranging from minor issues like fatigue and lack of sleep to life-threatening conditions such as stroke. If you experience persistent or recurrent dizziness, it is recommended to seek medical attention early to identify the cause and avoid delaying treatment.
How Does TCM View Dizziness and Vertigo?
Dr Li Rui, a senior physician at our clinic, points out that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes dizziness is often caused by a disharmony between the Liver and the Spleen. The Liver governs the smooth flow of Qi and stores blood, while the Spleen is responsible for transformation and is the source of Qi and Blood production. When "Liver Yang" rises excessively or "Spleen Deficiency" leads to internal phlegm-dampness, the clear Yang Qi cannot reach the head. This affects the supply of Qi and Blood to the brain, leading to vertigo, a "heavy-headed" feeling, palpitations, or insomnia.
TCM treatment focuses on "Syndrome Differentiation," utilizing herbal medicine and acupuncture to harmonize the organs, strengthen the body's resistance, and promote blood circulation to resolve stasis.
TCM Treatment Approaches
- Herbal Regulation: Based on individual constitution, herbs are used to replenish Qi and Blood, dispel wind, transform phlegm, and calm the Liver. This enhances the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain.
- Acupuncture Therapy: Stimulating specific acupoints on the head and limbs to balance Yin and Yang, clear the meridians, and strengthen the Spleen.
- Emotional Regulation: Maintaining emotional stability and avoiding anxiety helps prevent Liver Qi stagnation, which can aggravate symptoms.
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TCM Recommended Dietary Therapy
1. Goji Berry and Chrysanthemum Tea
Efficacy: Clears the Liver, improves vision, and calms Liver Yang to relieve dizziness.
Ingredients: 10g Goji berries, 6g Chrysanthemum, hot water.
Method: Steep ingredients in hot water for 10 minutes. Can be consumed 1-2 times daily.
Suitable for: Those who frequently feel dizzy with blurred vision or eye fatigue, especially office workers.
2. Yam and Red Date Porridge
Efficacy: Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach, replenishes Qi, and nourishes Blood.
Ingredients: 50g Chinese Yam, 5 Red Dates (pitted), 100g Rice.
Method: Cook ingredients together into a porridge. Consume in the morning or evening.
Suitable for: Those with pale complexions, fatigue, and dizziness caused by Qi and Blood deficiency.
Warm Reminder
Singapore’s year-round hot and humid climate makes it easy for "Dampness" to burden the Spleen. Combined with a fast-paced lifestyle and high stress, this leads to Liver and Spleen dysfunction. TCM emphasizes "preventive treatment." Early regulation of the constitution and lifestyle improvements can effectively alleviate or prevent the onset of vertigo.
If you have long been troubled by vertigo, unsteadiness, or diagnosed conditions such as Meniere's disease, insufficient cerebral blood supply, or insomnia with palpitations, you are welcome to book an appointment with Dr Li Rui at our Yishun TCM Clinic for a professional assessment and personalized regulation plan to help you regain your physical and mental balance.
