Migraine Treatment In Traditional Chinese Medicine

Migraines are commonly addressed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) through a holistic approach that considers the body's internal balance and energy flow. According to TCM theory, migraines are closely linked to the liver and are often classified as "head wind" or internally caused headaches. The treatment focuses on regulating liver function and restoring harmony within the body.

Herbal Therapy for Migraines

One of the primary methods of treating migraines in TCM is the use of herbal formulas tailored to the individual's specific condition. A commonly used formula is Sini San, which contains four key ingredients: Bupleurum (Chai Hu), White Peony Root (Bai Shao), Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), and Licorice Root (Gan Cao). This formula is particularly effective for balancing liver qi and alleviating headache symptoms.

For patients experiencing liver yang rising, characterized by dizziness and pulsating headaches, herbs like Gastrodia (Tian Ma) and Uncaria (Gou Teng) are often added to the formula to calm the liver and reduce symptoms. In cases of liver fire, which may present with sharp headaches and irritability, cooling herbs such as Mulberry Leaf (Sang Ye), Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju Hua), or Gardenia (Zhi Zi) are included to clear excessive heat from the liver.

Addressing Phlegm Dampness and Blood Stasis

When migraines are accompanied by phlegm-dampness, symptoms may include a heavy feeling in the head and nausea. In such cases, Ping Wei San, a classic formula containing ingredients like Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Atractylodes (Cang Zhu), and Magnolia Bark (Hou Po), is often used to resolve dampness and improve clarity. If phlegm-heat is present, Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang may be prescribed to clear heat and transform phlegm.

For migraines caused by blood stasis, which often present with fixed, stabbing pain, Tao Hong Si Wu Tang or Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang are commonly used. These formulas promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. As recorded in Wang Qingren's classic text Yi Lin Gai Cuo, Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang is especially effective for headaches that occur without clear external or internal causes and do not respond well to other treatments. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in treating migraine caused by blood stasis.

Nutritional Support for Deficiency-Related Migraines

In cases of deficiency-type migraines, where symptoms may include dull headaches and fatigue, the treatment focuses on nourishing the body and replenishing qi and blood. Si Wu Tang with additional herbs is frequently used to strengthen blood and support overall health. For patients with yang deficiency, warming herbs such as Aconite Root (Fu Zi), Asarum (Xi Xin), and Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi) can be added to the formula.

Those with qi deficiency may benefit from the addition of Ginseng (Ren Shen), Astragalus Root (Huang Qi), or Rhodiola (Hong Jing Tian) to boost energy and improve circulation. For individuals with yin deficiency, which may cause headaches accompanied by dryness and heat sensations, herbs like Ligustrum (Nu Zhen Zi) and Eclipta (Han Lian Cao) are often included to nourish yin and cool the body.

Non-Pharmacological Therapies in TCM

In addition to herbal medicine, non-pharmacological therapies play a significant role in migraine management. These include the use of nasal drops, topical ointments, foot patches, acupuncture, and acupressure. Applying medicinal ointments to the Feng Chi (GB20) or Tai Yang (EX-HN5) points can provide localized relief from head pain.

Foot patches applied to the Yong Quan (KI1) point on the sole of the foot are also used to draw heat downward and relieve head discomfort. Acupuncture at key points such as Bai Hui (GV20), Si Shen Cong, Zu San Li (ST36), and Tai Chong (LR3) has been shown to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. Additionally, therapeutic massage and acupressure techniques can further enhance circulation and ease tension in the head and neck area.