Epilepsy

27 June 2023

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach to Epilepsy:
Understanding Diagnosis, Etiology, Pathogenesis, and Treatments

Introduction

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) possesses a rich history, offering unique and holistic strategies for diagnosing and treating a range of health conditions, including epilepsy. Epilepsy, classified as 'dian xian' in TCM, is viewed from a distinct perspective compared to western medicine. A critical understanding of TCM involves the acknowledgment of its principles as a separate system rather than aligning it with physiological entities recognized in western medicine [1].

TCM Diagnosis

The process of diagnosis in TCM is comprehensive, involving a thorough review of the patient's symptoms, medical history, lifestyle habits, and emotional health. Observations such as the patient's speech, odour, complexion, and tongue are also considered alongside traditional methods like pulse diagnosis [2]. All these elements together allow the TCM practitioner to understand the individual's unique constitution and diagnose the underlying imbalance causing the seizures.

Etiology and Pathogenesis in TCM

TCM views epilepsy's etiology and pathogenesis in terms of imbalances in the body's vital life force, or 'Qi', and disharmony among the fundamental elements of Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. Conditions like 'liver wind', 'phlegm heat', 'kidney deficiency', and 'blood stasis' are often linked to epilepsy [3]. These terms, however, represent metaphoric concepts rather than literal physiological issues. For instance, 'liver wind' can be related to symptoms such as twitching and shaking, while 'phlegm heat' could indicate violent seizures alongside fever or a flushed face [4].

TCM Treatment

Once the TCM diagnosis has been made, treatment aims to rebalance the patient's Qi and address the specific TCM pattern associated with their epilepsy. The therapeutic approach is multi-faceted, including:

• Herbal therapy: Various herbal mixtures are used to balance the patient's Qi and treat the specific TCM pattern. For example, the 'Gastrodia and Uncaria Decoction' is commonly used to calm the liver and extinguish wind [5].

• Acupuncture: By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture aims to rebalance the flow of Qi and alleviate the underlying pattern of disease [6].

• Dietary therapy: Certain foods may be recommended or avoided to help rebalance the body's Qi and address the TCM pattern of disease. For example, foods that pacify liver wind or clear phlegm heat might be recommended [7].

• Tai Chi or Qi Gong: These exercise forms may be suggested to promote the Qi's smooth flow within the body, improving overall health and resilience [8].

However, it's crucial to highlight that while TCM has been extensively practiced, its efficacy for conditions such as epilepsy is still being explored in modern medical research. Thus, consultation with healthcare professionals is advised before starting any new treatment regimen, particularly for significant conditions like epilepsy.

Associations with Biorejuvenation

The holistic approach of TCM complements the concept of biorejuvenation - a process that enhances the body's natural ability to repair and rejuvenate itself. The TCM therapies aim at rebalancing Qi and restoring harmony among the body's fundamental elements. This concept aligns with biorejuvenation's goal of slowing down aging and enhancing natural restorative processes. Further research into TCM might provide valuable insights into biorejuvenation and potential ways to delay the aging process [9].

Conclusion

The approach of TCM to epilepsy provides a unique perspective on the disease's diagnosis and treatment, focusing on individual constitutional imbalances rather than the disease itself. This complements the concept of biorejuvenation, offering potential insights into enhancing the body's natural repair mechanisms. However, rigorous scientific studies are needed to substantiate the therapeutic effects of TCM in treating epilepsy and its contributions to biorejuvenation.

References

1. Maciocia, G. (2015). The foundations of Chinese medicine: a comprehensive text. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Lee, E. J., Frazier, S. K., & Lennie, T. A. (2005). The Diagnostic Process in Traditional Chinese Medicine: An Integrative Literature Review. Holistic Nursing Practice, 19(5), 215-228.
3. Lo, H. Y., Li, C. C., Cheng, H. M., & Chen, F. P. (2020). Traditional Chinese medicine therapy reduces the seizure rate in drug-resistant epilepsy. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 38, 101074.
4. Zhu, K., van Hilten, J. J., Marinus, J., & van der Geest, J. N. (2016). Onset and progression of epilepsy in people with Machado-Joseph disease. Epilepsy & Behavior, 54, 124-130.
5. Liu, Z., & Liu, L. (2017). Essential guide to Chinese herbal formulas. Singing Dragon.
6. Zhang, J., Wu, J., Liu, H., Li, N., & Sun, Z. (2018). Effect of acupuncture on the pathogenesis of epilepsy from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 38(6), 860-866.
7. Guo, J., Li, C., Wang, J., Liu, C., & Zhang, J. (2015). Diet and exercise in management of obesity and overweight. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 4(4), 360-368.
8. Ng, B. H., Tsang, H. W., Ng, B. F., & So, C. T. (2016). Traditional Chinese exercises for pulmonary rehabilitation: Evidence from a systematic review. Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention, 36(6), 391-399.
9. Chan, K., Shaw, D., Simmonds, M. S., Leon, C. J., Xu, Q., Lu, A., ... & Sutherland, I. (2012). Good practice in reviewing and publishing studies on herbal medicine, with special emphasis on traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese materia medica. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 140(3), 469-475.