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Chinese Herbs for Atrial Fibrillation 

Kaitlan Downes, MSAOM, L.AC

Ever feel like your heart is dancing to its own beat? You may be experiencing Atrial Fibrillation (commonly known as AFib), which is a condition that causes irregular heartbeats. Having frequent palpitations or an irregular heartbeat can be quite unsettling, plus it may bring potential health risks along with it.

While modern medicine offers various treatments to help you manage AFib, you do have other options; Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries to support heart health conditions and imbalances such as AFib.

Let’s dive deeper into AFib and how key Chinese herbs for Atrial Fibrillation can help you get your back on a normal rhythm.

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: What is AFib?

Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. When you have AFib, the upper chambers of your heart (the atria) beat erratically and out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This can cause symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and even dizziness.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of AFib can range from mild to severe and might include a fluttering sensation in the chest, weakness, shortness of breath, or even fainting spells. To diagnose AFib, doctors typically use an electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor your heart’s electrical activity and see how your heart is beating.

Causes and Risk Factors

AFib can affect anyone, but there are several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.

For instance, having other cardiovascular issues (like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes) can put you at risk of developing AFib. Lifestyle habits (like drinking alcohol) can also lead to AFib. And sometimes, AFib can occur without any apparent cause, which can make it particularly tricky to manage!

The good news is that no matter the root cause of your AFib, there are several ways you can support your heart, regulate your cardiovascular system, and restore a healthy rhythm.

Conventional/Western Treatment Options

When it comes to treating AFib, conventional medicine typically resorts to medications to control heart rate and rhythm, blood thinners to prevent clots, or surgical procedures. These treatments are used not only to relieve the palpitations and other symptoms, but to help prevent further cardiovascular issues like stroke or heart attack.

However, many people are also looking for complementary approaches to support their heart health, which is where TCM for AFib comes into play.

A Holistic Approach: TCM Treatment of AFib

Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient medicine that is still used widely today. While Western medicine tends to view the body as distinct parts or systems, TCM views the body as an interconnected system where balance and energy flow (Qi) through all areas are the key to health.

When it comes to TCM and heart health, the focus is on maintaining harmony within the body to support the heart’s natural function. Let’s take a closer look!

The Heart in TCM

In TCM, the heart is more than just a pump; it’s considered the emperor of the body, governing not only blood circulation but also housing the mind and spirit.

This means that emotional well-being and heart health are closely linked. Stress, anxiety, and other emotional disturbances can disrupt the heart’s energy, leading to imbalances.

Balance and Energy Flow (Qi) for Cardiovascular Health

Qi, or life force energy, needs to flow smoothly throughout the body to maintain health. In the case of AFib, TCM practitioners believe that disruptions in the flow of Qi and blood can contribute to the irregular heartbeat. By using herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes, TCM can help you re-balance Qi, improve circulation, and promote optimal heart function.

Common TCM Herbs Used for Heart Health

There are several herbs that are traditionally used in TCM to support the function and well-being of the heart. These tend to support blood production, blood flow, and mental health:

Wenxin Keli: A TCM Herbal Supplement for AFib

Wenxin Keli (by Buchang) is a TCM herbal supplement designed to support heart health, particularly for those dealing with AFib. This formula combines several potent herbs that work synergistically to promote a healthy heart rhythm:

  • Dang Shen: Strengthens the heart and boosts energy levels.
  • Huang Jing: Supports overall vitality and nourishes the body.
  • San Qi: Improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
  • Hu Po: Calms the mind and supports heart rhythm.
  • Gan Song: Helps to regulate Qi and relieve tension.

How Does Wenxin Keli Work for AFib and Heart Health?

Like other TCM herbal formulas, Wenxin Keli works by restoring balance. In the case of AFib, most people with this condition have both qi and yin deficiency, which eventually leads to stagnation of blood in the Heart system. This is what causes symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath, listlessness, dizziness, vexation, insomnia, chest distress, and chest pain.

Modern studies also show that Wenxin Keli is an effective treatment for cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac inflammation, and chronic heart failure. From a scientific point of view, Wenxin Keli supports heart health by:

  • Correcting Heart Arrhythmias
    This formula has antiarrhythmic properties, which helps it stabilize the heart’s electrical activity and reduce irregular heartbeats.
  • Improving Overall Heart Function
    This formula contains herbs that enhance overall heart function by promoting better blood flow and reducing stress and strain on the heart.
  • Calming the Heart
    Wenxing Keli helps soothe the mind, which is crucial since stress and anxiety can make AFib symptoms worse. 

How to Use Wenxin Keli

Wenxin Keli is easy to use – simply dissolve 1 packet in warm water and take 3 times per day for up to 6 weeks (or as advised by your TCM herbalist or other healthcare practitioner).

Other Herbal Formulas for Heart Health

While Wenxin Keli is a top choice if you’ve been diagnosed with AFib, there are other Chinese herbal formulas that can help improve your overall heart health:

Suan Zao Ren Wan

This classic formula is like a tonic for the heart. It is used to nourish the heart and liver systems while calming the mind. It’s helpful for individuals who experience heart-related anxiety and insomnia (often comes with palpitations, chest tightness, sweating, or racing thoughts). 

Tian Wang Bu Xin Wan (Emperor’s Teapills)

This herbal remedy is designed to nourish the yin and blood, support the heart, and calm the spirit. It is often recommended for people with symptoms of heart deficiency, such as palpitations, insomnia, and irritability.

Shan Zha Jiang Zhi Pian

Shan Zha, or hawthorn berry, is a particularly helpful herb for anyone with heart issues or a heart condition. It helps to dissolve and prevent blood clots, improve blood flow, and prevent stagnation in the Heart system.

Support Your Heart Health with Chinese Herbs

Taking care of your heart, especially when dealing with conditions like AFib, takes a holistic approach. With the right combination of conventional medicine, TCM herbal formulas, and healthy lifestyle choices, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier, heart-happy future.

Shop now to find these and other Chinese herbs for heart health, cholesterol balance, healthy blood pressure, and more!

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About the Author

Kaitlan Downes, MSAOM, L.AC

Kate Downes is a Chinese medicine practitioner with a passion for herbal medicine. In fact, it was her love for plant and earth medicine that first drew her to study Chinese medicine.

Kate has a MSAOM (Master of Science, Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine) certification and practiced acupuncture in Indianapolis, IN for five years before packing her bags to roam the world. In order to stay in touch with the wellness community and continue to help others thrive with herbal medicine, she transformed her work from face-to-face patient care to spreading wellness through words. Her life as a remote herbalist and writer has allowed her to work with a variety of wellness brands, health pioneers, and her wonderful clients. She has a special interest in working with women’s health.

Kate thoroughly enjoys writing educational and useful pieces for Best Chinese Medicine. Her goal is to help the public gain a better understanding of the wonders of Chinese herbal medicine so they can be empowered in their own quest for natural, vibrant health.

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