Dizziness and Vertigo

Dizziness and vertigo are disorienting conditions that can range from mild imbalance to intense spinning sensations. They often interfere with daily life, causing nausea, unsteadiness, and a fear of falling. Whether caused by inner ear problems, circulation issues, or stress, dizziness deserves careful, holistic care.

Understanding Dizziness and Vertigo in TCM

In TCM, dizziness and vertigo often stem from:

• Liver Yang rising causing excess upward energy
• Phlegm-Damp accumulation blocking the head's clear pathways
• Qi and Blood deficiency failing to nourish the brain
• Kidney Essence deficiency leading to instability and imbalance

TCM aims to restore proper energy flow, clear blockages, and nourish the body to promote inner and outer balance.

How Acupuncture Helps with Dizziness and Vertigo

Acupuncture supports recovery by:

• Improving circulation to the brain and inner ear
• Regulating Liver and Kidney functions
• Clearing Phlegm and Dampness obstructing the head
• Calming the nervous system to stabilise balance

Points along the Governing Vessel, Gallbladder, Liver, and Kidney meridians are selected to anchor Yang, clear Phlegm, and support vitality.

Studies in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2022) demonstrate that acupuncture significantly improves symptoms of vertigo and dizziness, especially in cases related to vestibular dysfunction and circulation issues.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Stability

Chinese herbal medicine works internally to:

• Anchor Liver Yang and calm internal Wind
• Transform Phlegm and clear Dampness from the head
• Nourish Qi, Blood, and Essence to strengthen the brain and balance systems
• Support Kidney and Spleen functions for long-term stability

Commonly used herbs include:

• Tian Ma (Gastrodia Rhizome): Calms the Liver and treats dizziness
• Gou Teng (Uncaria Vine): Extinguishes Wind and stabilises the mind
• Ban Xia (Pinellia Rhizome): Transforms Phlegm and reduces nausea
• Huang Qi (Astragalus Root): Tonifies Qi and supports recovery

Herbal formulas are carefully tailored to match each patient's underlying pattern and symptom presentation.

Types of Dizziness and Vertigo: TCM Perspective

Liver Yang Rising Dizziness

Common in stress-related or emotional cases. Symptoms include:

• Spinning sensation
• Headache, irritability, blurred vision

Treatment focuses on calming Liver Yang and anchoring excess energy.

Phlegm-Damp Dizziness

Often linked to diet or digestion issues. Symptoms include:

• Heaviness in the head
• Nausea, foggy thinking

Treatment aims to transform Phlegm, clear Dampness, and lighten the head.

Qi and Blood Deficiency Dizziness

Occurs after illness, chronic fatigue, or blood loss. Symptoms include:

• Lightheadedness, weakness
• Pale complexion, palpitations

Treatment involves nourishing Qi and Blood to rebuild internal support.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Dizziness

Daily practices can greatly aid recovery and prevention. At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Maintaining regular sleep and meal schedules
• Avoiding sudden head movements or abrupt changes in posture
• Practising gentle exercises like Tai Chi to improve balance
• Managing stress through meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga
• Eating Blood-nourishing foods like black beans, leafy greens, and bone broth
• Avoiding greasy, cold, and overly processed foods that generate Phlegm

Hydration, slow transitions between sitting and standing, and moderate physical activity are also important for stability.

Final Thoughts

Dizziness and vertigo can be disorienting and limiting, but natural healing is possible. With Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can restore inner balance, strengthen your body, and regain control over your life.