hypertension

Hypertension and Traditional Chinese Medicine: Natural Ways to Fight Hypertension with the Support of Qi Gong and Western Medicine

Hypertension is a chronic condition that affects a growing number of people worldwide. High blood pressure increases the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Standard treatment for hypertension includes medication and lifestyle changes, but more and more people are seeking support from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which offers natural methods of balancing the body. Qi Gong and diet can also help fight hypertension.

Western Medicine's Approach to Hypertension

In Western medicine, hypertension is often treated with medications such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics to help control blood pressure. Along with drug therapy, doctors recommend lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, avoiding excess salt, losing weight, and reducing stress. While these measures are effective, they may not always be enough, which is why patients often seek natural ways to support their treatment, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine.

How Does TCM View Hypertension?

In TCM, hypertension is interpreted as an imbalance in the body – a disturbance in the balance of Qi, Yin and Yang energy and blood flow. TCM does not treat hypertension as a separate disease entity, but as a result of weakening or overloading of various systems and organs, especially the liver, heart, kidneys and spleen. Here are the most common causes of hypertension from the TCM perspective:

Increased Yang in the Liver – Stress, anger and emotional tension can cause a build-up of Yang in the Liver, leading to increased blood pressure.

Qi Stagnation – Weakened flow of Qi energy can cause excess stress, which contributes to hypertension.

Yin and Yang Deficiency – An imbalance of Yin and Yang energies in the heart and kidneys can contribute to elevated blood pressure.

TCM Methods in Treating Hypertension

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the main TCM methods used to regulate blood pressure. By stimulating specific acupuncture points on the body, you can improve the flow of Qi, relieve tension and lower blood pressure. Studies show that regular acupuncture can help lower blood pressure in the long term.

Herbal medicine

TCM uses a variety of herbal combinations that help reduce high blood pressure by acting as a calming and anti-inflammatory agent. Examples of herbs used for high blood pressure:

Dan Shen (red sage root) – promotes blood circulation and helps reduce blood pressure.

Xia Ku Cao (soft ear grass) – used to reduce excess Yang in the liver, which helps reduce pressure.

Ju hua (chrysanthemum flower ) - lowers blood pressure

Long Gu and Mu li (minerals) - soothe and lower blood pressure

Massage and acupressure

Massage and acupressure of points on the body can be helpful in lowering blood pressure, especially in stressful states. Massage of points such as:

Neiguan (P6) – a point on the forearm that helps reduce stress.

Taichong (LV3) – a point on the foot, used for excess Yang in the liver.

Hegu (LI4) – a point on the hand that helps relieve tension and calm the mind.

TCM Diet

TCM recommends a light diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish. It is worth avoiding excess salt, fatty foods, and alcohol, which can burden the liver and contribute to increased blood pressure. Herbal teas, such as chrysanthemum tea, can support the circulatory system.

Qi Gong as Natural Support for Hypertension

Qi Gong is a Chinese exercise technique that combines movement, breathing, and mental concentration to support energy balance in the body. Qi Gong can help reduce stress, which is one of the main causes of high blood pressure. Regular practice of Qi Gong improves the flow of Qi, strengthens the body's energy, and helps lower blood pressure.

Qi Gong Exercise for High Blood Pressure

Breathing exercise: Stand comfortably, focus on breathing, inhale through your nose, deeply and evenly. Imagine that with the exhale you are releasing tension. You can do this exercise every day for 10-15 minutes.

Qi Gong relaxation technique

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, arms loosely hanging down. Close your eyes and visualize energy flowing through your body. Focus on relaxation and even breathing. This practice helps reduce stress and tension, which helps lower blood pressure.

Combining TCM and Western Medicine to Fight Hypertension

A holistic approach combining TCM, Qi Gong, and Western medicine can yield optimal results. Patients can use pharmacotherapy while supporting their health with TCM techniques and Qi Gong exercises, which can reduce medication dosages and improve their well-being. It is recommended to consult both a physician and a certified TCM specialist to select appropriate treatment methods.

Summary

Hypertension is a serious condition, but with Traditional Chinese Medicine and practices like Qi Gong, you can support your circulatory health naturally. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, diet, and relaxation techniques can all help lower your blood pressure while improving your energy balance and quality of life.

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