High blood pressure, or hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems like stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure.
While modern medicine offers medications to control blood pressure, many people seek Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a natural way to manage hypertension holistically.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Normal blood pressure is around 120/80 mmHg, but when it consistently reads 130/80 mmHg or higher, it’s considered hypertension. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision, though many people experience no symptoms at all.
So, how does TCM view high blood pressure, and what natural remedies can help? Let’s dive in!
How Does TCM View High Blood Pressure?
In TCM, high blood pressure is not just about numbers—it’s about imbalances in the body’s energy (气, Qì), Yin-Yang (阴阳), and organ systems. It is often linked to:
- Liver Yang Rising (肝阳上亢) – Too much heat and energy rising to the head, causing dizziness, headaches, or irritability.
- Kidney Deficiency (肾虚) – Weak kidney function leads to poor water metabolism and blood pressure fluctuations.
- Blood Stagnation (血瘀) – Poor circulation causing blood pressure to remain high.
- Phlegm-Dampness (痰湿) – Excess phlegm blocking circulation, leading to obesity-related hypertension.
The TCM approach focuses on restoring balance using herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Best TCM Remedies for High Blood Pressure
- Herbal Medicine for Hypertension
- TCM herbs can help lower blood pressure naturally by improving circulation, calming the liver, and strengthening the kidneys. Here are some commonly used herbs:
- Chrysanthemum (菊花, Jú Huā) – Cools the liver, reduces heat, and helps with dizziness and headaches.
- Hawthorn Berry (山楂, Shān Zhā) – Improves circulation, lowers cholesterol, and supports heart health.
- Gastrodia (天麻, Tiān Má) – Reduces dizziness and headaches caused by Liver Yang Rising.
- Uncaria (钩藤, Gōu Téng) – Helps lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
- Danshen (丹参, Dān Shēn) – Promotes healthy blood flow and prevents clot formation.
- TCM herbs can help lower blood pressure naturally by improving circulation, calming the liver, and strengthening the kidneys. Here are some commonly used herbs:
👉 Tip: These herbs can be taken as teas, tinctures, or in herbal formulas prescribed by a licensed TCM practitioner.
- Acupuncture for Blood Pressure Regulation
- Acupuncture helps by improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and reducing stress, which are all key in controlling blood pressure. Some effective acupuncture points include:
- Zusanli (ST36, 足三里) – Boosts circulation and strengthens digestion. (It’s located four finger-widths below the kneecap and one finger-width to the outside of the shinbone.)
- Taichong (LV3, 太冲) – Calms Liver Yang and relieves tension. (It’s located on the top of the foot, in the webbing between the first and second toes, about two finger-widths up from the base of the toes.)
- Sanyinjiao (SP6, 三阴交) – Balances the kidney, spleen, and liver and improves fluid metabolism. (It’s located four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, just behind the shinbone.)
- Neiguan (PC6, 内关) – Supports heart health and relieves anxiety. (It’s located on the inner forearm, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the two tendons.)
- Acupuncture helps by improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and reducing stress, which are all key in controlling blood pressure. Some effective acupuncture points include:
Regular acupuncture sessions can naturally regulate blood pressure and improve overall well-being.
- TCM Diet Tips for Lowering Blood Pressure
- TCM emphasizes eating according to your body’s needs to maintain balance. Here are some simple dietary tips:
- Eat More:
- Celery (芹菜, Qín Cài) – Naturally lowers blood pressure and detoxifies the liver.
- Garlic (大蒜, Dà Suàn) – Improves circulation and reduces cholesterol.
- Green leafy vegetables – Rich in potassium, which helps balance sodium levels.
- Goji berries (枸杞, Gǒu Qǐ) – Strengthen the kidneys and improve circulation.
- Avoid:
- Salty foods – Excess sodium raises blood pressure.
- Fried & processed foods – Contribute to dampness and phlegm accumulation.
- Too much red meat – Can cause heat and stagnation in the body.
👉 Tip: Try drinking Chrysanthemum & Goji Berry Tea, or Hawthorn Tea to soothe the liver and support heart health.
- Lifestyle Changes Based on TCM Principles
- Small daily habits can make a big difference in managing blood pressure naturally:
- Practice Tai Chi or Qi Gong – Helps calm the mind, improve circulation, and lower stress.
- Sleep well – Poor sleep weakens the kidneys and increases blood pressure.
- Stay hydrated – Drink warm water or herbal teas instead of sugary drinks.
- Manage stress – Meditation, deep breathing, or acupuncture can help balance emotions.
- Small daily habits can make a big difference in managing blood pressure naturally:
Final Thoughts: Can TCM Help with High Blood Pressure?
Yes! TCM offers a natural and holistic approach to lowering blood pressure and improving overall health. By combining herbal remedies, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and lifestyle changes, you can manage hypertension without relying solely on medication.
If you’re interested in trying TCM for high blood pressure, it’s best to consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a personalized treatment plan.
Author: nadi
Helping others look and feel their best as a cosmetic acupuncturist, naturopath, and writer with a love for holistic wellness—flowing with ancient wisdom to inspire natural beauty and well-being.