Calming Internal Wind, Regulating the Shen, and Restoring Harmony
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which may involve convulsions, sensory disturbances, or loss of consciousness. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), epilepsy is understood within the framework of “Xian Zheng” (癫痫), often translated as “convulsive syndrome” or “wind-related seizure disorder.”Rather than attributing epilepsy solely to electrical disturbances in the brain, TCM views it as the result of internal Wind, Phlegm obstruction, Qi and Blood disharmony, and organ dysfunction—particularly in the Liver, Heart, Spleen, and Kidneys. Emotional stress, constitutional weakness, poor diet, or trauma can trigger or worsen seizures, especially when they disrupt the normal flow of Qi and disturb the Shen (mind/spirit).
In TCM, the brain is known as the “Sea of Marrow” and is nourished by Kidney Essence and regulated by the Heart (Shen), Liver (Wind), and Spleen (Phlegm production). A seizure occurs when Phlegm, Wind, or Fire obstruct the clear orifices of the Heart and brain, preventing normal consciousness and movement. This results in sudden loss of awareness, involuntary convulsions, or mental confusion.Key pathogenic factors include:
Phlegm-Obstruction of the Orifices
Liver Wind stirring internally
Deficiency of the Kidney Essence or Spleen Qi
Emotional shock disturbing the Heart and Shen
Seen in active seizures with sudden loss of consciousness, foaming at the mouth, and convulsions.Symptoms: Sudden collapse, upward staring eyes, convulsions, heavy body, chest oppression, sputum sounds in the throat
Treatment: Resolve Phlegm, open the sensory orifices, extinguish Wind
Often triggered by anger, stress, or alcohol. Common in younger, more fiery patients.Symptoms: Convulsions, dizziness, headaches, red face, irritability, bitter taste, rapid pulse
Treatment: Clear Liver Fire, extinguish Wind, calm the Shen
When the Spleen fails to transform fluids, Phlegm is generated and rises to block the brain.Symptoms: Fatigue, poor appetite, heaviness, mental fog, nausea, soft pulse, pale tongue with greasy coating
Treatment: Strengthen Spleen, dry Dampness, resolve Phlegm
Common in long-term cases where seizures are less violent but recovery is slow and mental function is affected.Symptoms: Dizziness, palpitations, insomnia, forgetfulness, dry mouth, red tongue with little coating
Treatment: Nourish Heart and Kidney Yin, calm the Shen
Acupuncture: Regular treatment helps calm the Shen, regulate Liver Qi, and reduce seizure frequency.
Moxibustion: Used in cold or deficiency types to warm the Yang and clear the orifices.
Dietary guidance:Avoid greasy, sweet, or cold/raw foods (which create Phlegm)Favor warm, nourishing, and easy-to-digest meals
Lifestyle advice:Maintain a calm and regular routine
Reduce emotional stress and overexertion
From the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, epilepsy is seen as a disorder of internal Wind, Phlegm, and organ imbalance, particularly involving the Liver, Spleen, Heart, and Kidneys. Seizures are viewed as acute manifestations of deeper imbalances, and TCM aims to treat both the symptomatic flare-ups and the constitutional root causes.Through a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, diet, and emotional regulation, TCM offers a gentle and personalized approach to reducing seizure frequency, supporting nervous system function, and improving overall quality of life for those living with epilepsy.