How is atrial fibrillation treated in traditional Chinese medicine?
Jul 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, atrial fibrillation can generally be treated through traditional Chinese medicine approaches such as herbal regulation, acupuncture, acupoint massage, dietary adjustment, and emotional regulation. Corresponding Chinese herbs are selected according to the specific syndrome pattern. For example, patients with deficiency of both Qi and Yin may be treated with herbal formulas that replenish Qi and nourish Yin. These formulas can nourish the heart, regulate blood circulation, alleviate symptoms such as palpitations and shortness of breath caused by atrial fibrillation, and help restore cardiac function.
Generally, atrial fibrillation can be treated through traditional Chinese medicine methods such as herbal regulation, acupuncture, acupressure massage, dietary adjustments, and emotional regulation. The detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Herbal Regulation: Corresponding herbs are selected based on different syndrome types. For example, patients with deficiency of both qi and yin may choose herbal formulas that replenish qi and nourish yin. These formulas can nourish the heart, regulate blood circulation, alleviate symptoms such as palpitations and shortness of breath caused by atrial fibrillation, and help restore heart function.
2. Acupuncture Treatment: Acupuncture at specific points such as Neiguan (PC6), Shenmen (HT7), and Xinshu (BL15) can unblock meridians, harmonize qi and blood, relieve abnormal cardiac contractions, reduce discomfort such as chest tightness and palpitations caused by atrial fibrillation, and promote bodily balance.
3. Acupressure Massage: Specific acupoints are pressed and rubbed. For instance, massaging the Shanzhong (CV17) point can relieve chest tightness and regulate qi, while massaging the Taichong (LR3) point can soothe the liver and relieve depression. Stimulating these acupoints helps regulate heart function, improve atrial fibrillation symptoms, and enhance the body's self-regulating ability.
4. Dietary Regulation: Choose bland and easily digestible foods, such as yam, lotus seeds, and lily bulbs, while avoiding spicy and greasy foods. This can nourish the spleen and stomach, promote blood and qi production, reduce stimulation to the heart, and assist in stabilizing heart function.
5. Emotional Regulation: Maintain emotional stability and avoid excessive tension and anxiety. Mood can be relaxed through activities such as listening to music and walking, preventing emotional fluctuations from causing cardiac dysfunction and aiding in the management and recovery of atrial fibrillation.
When treating atrial fibrillation with traditional Chinese medicine, it is important to proceed under the guidance of a professional TCM physician and choose suitable treatment methods according to individual conditions. If symptoms worsen or other discomforts occur, seek medical attention promptly.
