Title: Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for the Treatment of Cerebral Infarction

Cerebral infarction, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition, often results in significant long-term complications. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this condition is commonly associated with Qi stagnation and blood stasis, upward disturbance of wind-phlegm, excessive Liver Yang, deficiency of Qi and blood, and Yin deficiency of the Liver and Kidneys. There are several TCM approaches used to address cerebral infarction, as outlined below:

1. Herbal Medicine Therapy

TCM employs various herbal formulations to manage cerebral infarction, such as An Nao Wan, An Gong Niu Huang Wan, Su He Xiang Wan, and Zhi Bao Dan. These remedies are known for their consciousness-opening and mind-awakening properties, which can help restore neurological function and reduce the severity of symptoms following a stroke.

2. Acupuncture and Massage Therapy

Acupuncture has shown promising results in treating post-stroke symptoms such as impaired limb movement, cognitive sluggishness, insomnia, numbness and pain, muscle spasms, or muscle weakness. This therapy helps stimulate blood flow, restore nerve function, and promote overall recovery. Tui Na massage is also often used in combination with acupuncture to enhance circulation and muscle relaxation.

3. External Herbal Treatments

Auricular Acupuncture and Topical Applications

External treatments include auricular acupuncture, where seeds of Vaccaria segetalis (Wang Bu Liu Xing) are taped onto specific points on the ear and pressed regularly to stimulate healing. Other methods involve topical herbal applications, such as herbal poultices and medicinal baths, which help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and support recovery through the skin's absorption of therapeutic compounds.