The blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refer to substances that promote blood circulation, alleviate blood stasis, and can be categorized into blood-activating analgesics, blood-regulating herbs, and herbs for healing injuries. With the improvement of living standards, the incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases has been rising annually, leading to an increasing trend in the use of these herbs. Most of these herbs are characterized by a pungent and warm nature, which can disperse stasis and promote circulation. They are widely used in clinical practice; however, there are important considerations to keep in mind when using them.
Some of the blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy. Some of these herbs can activate blood and regulate menstruation, while others may induce abortion or stimulate labor. Therefore, women experiencing excessive menstruation, blood deficiency without stasis leading to amenorrhea, or those who are pregnant should use these herbs with caution or avoid them altogether. Additionally, blood-activating herbs often have the potential to damage or deplete blood, so it is crucial to pay attention to dosage and duration of use. They should not be used excessively or for prolonged periods, and it is advisable to combine them with blood-nourishing herbs when necessary.
Patients taking blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs should also be mindful of their diet. They should avoid sour, cold, bitter, and spicy foods. When consuming these herbs, patients should not arbitrarily increase the dosage or frequency of administration; they should follow medical advice. Treatment with blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs should be conducted according to a prescribed course, and one should not rush the process, as this may lead to negative effects on the body.
Reviewed by: Wu Xiuchun Proofread by: Liu Shuxia Edited by: Liu Dong
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