TCM Treatment for Vertigo: Holistic Regulation to Prevent Serious Complications
"Xuan Yun" (Vertigo) is a collective term for blurred vision (Xuan) and dizziness (Yun). "Xuan" is characterized by blurred vision or things turning black before the eyes, while "Yun" is characterized by a sensation that oneself or the surroundings are spinning, leading to instability, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or headaches. While dizziness is a clinical symptom of many conditions, vertigo is a specific disorder that can recur. In the early stages, symptoms may seem minor—perhaps just a brief "blackout" that resolves with rest—making it easy to ignore. However, without timely treatment, worsening conditions may eventually develop into a stroke!
Western medicine attributes vertigo to malfunctions in the body's balance system. The peripheral vestibular sensory organs located in the inner ear are a key part of this system. If there is an imbalance or lesion in the inner ear, these organs send incorrect signals to the brain, causing the patient to "feel unstable" and experience vertigo. However, the causes of vertigo are numerous and complex; therefore, it is not always caused by inner ear issues.
How Does TCM View the Causes of Vertigo?
TCM believes that vertigo is closely related to Qi and Blood deficiency, Spleen and Stomach weakness, Liver Yang rising (hyperactivity), and phlegm-dampness obstructing the meridians. Among these, the Spleen, Stomach, and Kidneys are the sources of Qi and Blood production. If the Spleen and Kidneys are deficient, the brain does not receive sufficient nourishment, leading to "malnourishment of the clear orifices," which manifests as dizziness and vertigo.
Common causes of Spleen and Kidney deficiency include:
• Aging, physical weakness, or a cold-type constitution.
• Overwork and chronic insomnia.
• Recovering from a major illness where vital energy (Yuan Qi) has not yet been restored.
• Postpartum weakness or excessive sexual activity.
TCM Treatment for Vertigo: Addressing Both Symptoms and Roots
TCM treatment for vertigo focuses on "regulating the organs, unblocking the meridians, and replenishing Qi and Blood." This is usually achieved through a combination of:
• Herbal Regulation: Personalized prescriptions based on individual constitution.
• Acupuncture Therapy: Improving Qi and Blood circulation and clearing the "head orifices."
• Dietary Therapy: Assisting in the recovery of organ functions and strengthening the body.
Many patients experience a significant reduction in the frequency of vertigo and an overall improvement in their physical state after combining acupuncture with herbal conditioning, allowing them to return to a normal life.
Recommended Daily Dietary Therapy (Simple and Easy)
1. Qi-Supplementing and Brain-Boosting Tea
Ingredients: Longan (12g), Zao Ren (Spine Date Seed) (12g), Qian Shi (Gorgon Fruit) (12g).
Method: Add water and bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
Efficacy: Replenishes Qi and Blood, calms the mind, and boosts brain health.
2. Spleen-Strengthening and Kidney-Nourishing Congee
Ingredients: Dang Shen (30g), Fu Ling (20g), Fresh Ginger (6g), Rice (appropriate amount), 1 Egg.
Method: Boil the herbs in water, add rice to cook into congee, and stir in the egg just before finishing.
Efficacy: Replenishes Qi, strengthens the Spleen, nourishes the Stomach, and calms the mind; suitable for those with weak constitutions.
If you frequently feel dizzy, tired, or suffer from recurring vertigo, please book an appointment with Dr Li Rui for a professional TCM consultation. Early regulation of your constitution can restore balance and solve the problem from its root. TCM focuses not only on symptoms but on holistic harmony.
