TCM Treatment for Hypercholesterolemia

How TCM Effectively Manages High Cholesterol — Improving 'Dyslipidemia' from the Root

In recent years, the "Three Highs" (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high blood lipids) have become increasingly common in Singapore. Among them, hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) has emerged as a significant public health challenge. According to recent health reports in Singapore, the prevalence of high cholesterol remains high, with about half of the cases remaining undiagnosed. Long-term high cholesterol not only increases the risk of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and stroke, but may also exacerbate hypertension and diabetes.

While long-term Western medication can control cholesterol levels, it may bring side effects or affect liver function. Consequently, more patients are seeking TCM natural therapies to stabilize blood lipids and improve their constitution through holistic regulation.

How Does TCM View High Cholesterol?

TCM does not have a specific word for "cholesterol." It is typically categorized under "Turbid Phlegm," "Blood Stasis," "Obesity," or "Chest Obstruction." The underlying mechanism is often Spleen deficiency leading to poor transformation of nutrients, which results in internal dampness and phlegm that blocks the blood vessels. Modern lifestyles involving oily diets, lack of exercise, and high stress easily lead to "Internal Damp-Phlegm" and "Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Deficiency."

Therefore, TCM emphasizes syndrome differentiation and holistic regulation—focusing on strengthening the Spleen, resolving dampness, and invigorating blood circulation to treat both symptoms and the root cause.

TCM Treatment Methods for High Cholesterol

TCM utilizes a comprehensive plan of Herbal Medicine + Acupuncture + Dietary Therapy + Lifestyle Intervention. The goal is to restore metabolic balance, promoting the natural metabolism and excretion of cholesterol while improving overall health.

1) Herbal Medicine (Syndrome Differentiation)

  • Spleen Deficiency with Dampness: Obesity, poor appetite, bloating, loose stools. Formulas like Shen Ling Bai Zhu San help strengthen the Spleen and eliminate dampness.
  • Liver Qi Stagnation: Emotional fluctuations, rib-side pain, chest tightness. Formulas like Chai Hu Shu Gan San help soothe the Liver and regulate Qi.
  • Blood Stasis: Dark tongue with stasis spots, limb numbness, palpitations. Formulas like Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang invigorate blood and improve lipid metabolism.
  • Internal Damp-Heat: Bitter taste in mouth, constipation, oily face, fatty liver tendencies. Formulas like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang help clear heat and resolve dampness.

TCM does more than just "lower lipids"; it improves the metabolic environment and reduces recurrence risks, making it ideal for long-term chronic management.

2) Acupuncture Treatment

By regulating the autonomic nervous system and improving Liver and Spleen functions, acupuncture promotes lipid metabolism. Common points used include Zusanli, Sanyinjiao, Fenglong, and Neiguan. This is suitable for those wanting to reduce medication dosage or those who cannot tolerate Western drug side effects.

3) Dietary & Lifestyle Conditioning

We emphasize that "Food and Medicine share the same source." Ingredients like Hawthorn (Shan Zha), Lotus Leaf, Cassia Seed, and Corn Silk can be used in teas to help clear heat, lower lipids, and improve blood rheology.

  • Reduce oil and fat intake; increase fiber-rich vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
  • Choose healthy oils rich in Omega-3 (e.g., olive oil, avocado oil).
  • Quit smoking, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, and maintain emotional stability.

Advantages of TCM Treatment

Natural & Gentle

Combines herbs with non-drug therapies; low side effects; suitable for long-term use.

Holistic Regulation

Balances the Spleen, Stomach, Liver, and Gallbladder for metabolic health.

Treating Root & Symptoms

Tailored to the individual to reduce recurrence and complication risks.

Integrated Care

Can be used alongside Western medicine to lower drug dependency.

Clinical Case Study

A 50-year-old local Chinese male presented with total cholesterol > 6.5 mmol/L and LDL 4.3 mmol/L. He was generally healthy but experienced occasional dizziness, chest tightness, and fatigue. Due to gastrointestinal discomfort from Western medication, he sought TCM treatment. Dr Li Rui diagnosed him with "Internal Phlegm-Dampness with Blood Stasis" and prescribed Er Chen Tang and Dan Shen Yin, supplemented by acupuncture twice weekly. After two months, his dizziness significantly subsided, and his lipid levels gradually decreased, remaining stable with continued maintenance.

Dr Li Rui

MOH-registered TCM physician with a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and over 30 years of clinical experience

Dr Li holds both a Master’s degree in TCM and a Bachelor’s degree in Western Medicine. She specializes in the management of the "Three Highs" and metabolic syndrome. With over 30 years of clinical experience, she focuses on personalized syndrome differentiation and holistic regulation to help patients rebuild metabolic balance and improve their quality of life while reducing drug dependency.

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Dr Li Rui Shanghai Chinese Medical Centre Singapore

High cholesterol is often called the 'silent killer' because it usually shows no symptoms initially while quietly damaging cardiovascular health. Combining TCM treatment with health management can effectively regulate lipids and blood pressure without significant side effects.

If your health check-up shows abnormal lipids, or if you have a history of the 'Three Highs,' consult a professional TCM physician for personalized care. Book an appointment with Dr Li Rui to safeguard your cardiovascular health.

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Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre

Blk 925 Yishun Central 1
#01-243
Singapore 760925

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+65 6756 1528

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info@tcm-shanghai.com.sg

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