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Video on Liver Qi Stagnation (symptoms, causes & acupuncture points)

Show Notes

Did you know that over 1.3 billion people worldwide have high blood pressure? And yet, less than 20% have it under control. That’s why it’s often called The Silent Killer. But in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we see hypertension as more than just a number—it’s a sign of deeper imbalance in the body.

In this week’s episode of the AcuPro Podcast, I explore into how we use acupuncture to control high blood pressure, the most common TCM patterns, go-to acupuncture points, and a real-life case study from her clinic that shows just how effective this natural approach can be.

Why Use Acupuncture to Control High Blood Pressure?

Western medicine often focuses on lowering numbers—usually with medication. But TCM goes deeper, treating the energetic and functional imbalances behind the elevated pressure.

Hypertension in TCM can be caused by:

• Emotional stress (Liver Qi stagnation)

• Overwork (Yin deficiency)

• Poor digestion (Phlegm and Dampness)

• Genetic weakness (Kidney deficiency)

• Poor circulation (Blood stasis)

Using acupuncture to control high blood pressure works by:

• Regulating the autonomic nervous system

• Reducing stress and calming the Liver

• Promoting circulation and reducing internal heat

• Supporting Kidney and Spleen function for long-term balance

TCM Patterns & Treatment Strategies

Here’s a breakdown of TCM patterns commonly seen in hypertensive patients and how acupuncture helps:

1. Liver Yang Rising

Symptoms: Temporal headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, red eyes, irritability
Tongue: Red sides | Pulse: Wiry (maybe rapid)
Acupuncture Points: LV2, LV3, GB20, LI4, DU20, KD1
Herbal Formula: Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin

2. Liver Fire Blazing

Symptoms: Pounding headaches, anger, bitter taste, red eyes, constipation
Tongue: Red with yellow coat | Pulse: Wiry, rapid
Acupuncture Points: LV2, GB43, LI11, HT7, Taiyang, DU20
Herbal Formula: Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (short-term only)

3. Kidney & Liver Yin Deficiency

Symptoms: Tinnitus, insomnia, blurred vision, five-center heat, low back pain
Tongue: Red, cracked, no coat | Pulse: Thin, wiry, rapid
Acupuncture Points: KD6, SP6, KD2, LV8, GB38, DU20
Herbal Formula: Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan

4. Phlegm Obstruction

Symptoms: Dizziness, fatigue, heavy limbs, nausea, sticky stools
Tongue: Greasy coat | Pulse: Slippery
Acupuncture Points: ST36, ST40, SP9, SP6, REN12, PC5
Herbal Formula: Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang

5. Blood Stasis

Symptoms: Fixed/stabbing headaches, chest pain, purple lips/nails
Tongue: Purple | Pulse: Choppy, wiry
Acupuncture Points: SP10, BL17, LV3, LI4, REN17, HT6
Herbal Formula: Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang

Bonus: Auricular Acupuncture for High Blood Pressure

Clara also shares her go-to ear acupuncture points for regulating hypertension:

• Shen Men – calms the mind

• Sympathetic – relaxes the nervous system

• Heart – supports cardiovascular health

• Liver – regulates stress and emotions

Pro Tip: Use 2 points per ear (don’t double everything). Minimal needling = maximum impact.

Case Study: Natural Blood Pressure Regulation

Patient: 44-year-old male
Symptoms: Pounding headaches, high-pitched tinnitus, dizziness, insomnia, irritability
Diagnosis: Liver Yang Rising → Liver Fire → Blood Stasis
Pulse/Tongue: Wiry rapid pulse, red tongue with purple sides

Treatment Plan:

• Points: LV2, LV3, LI4, GB20, DU20, LI11, HT7

• Frequency: Weekly treatments

• Results: Headaches resolved, sleep improved, and blood pressure normalized without meds in just over a month.

Bonus: He now comes monthly for wellness maintenance.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Blood Pressure Naturally

Alongside acupuncture to control high blood pressure, Clara recommends:

• Cut salt & processed foods

• Increase magnesium-rich foods (leafy greens, pumpkin seeds)

• Supplement with:

  • Magnesium glycinate

  • CoQ10

  • Omega-3s

  • Garlic extract

• Exercise + sleep hygiene

• Stress reduction (meditation, Qi Gong, hobbies)

Final Thoughts

TCM doesn’t just manage symptoms—it helps us rebalance the whole system. Using acupuncture to control high blood pressure is not only possible, it’s effective, sustainable, and deeply healing.

Disclaimer

The AcuPro Show podcast and material shared through AcuPro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. Additionally, as well as users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

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