Tian Ma, also known as Gastrodia elata or Gastrodia Rhizome, is a neutral and sweet herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to extinguish wind, calm the Liver, and relieve spasms. It is particularly valued for treating internal wind conditions such as dizziness, vertigo, headaches, and convulsions. With its gentle nature and stabilizing effects, Tian Ma is commonly used for neurological and muscular disorders, as well as for calming agitation and supporting cognitive function in the elderly.
Fonctions et avantages
Calms the Liver & Extinguishes Wind
Tian Ma is one of the key herbs for treating internal Liver Wind, especially when it manifests as dizziness, vertigo, tremors, or spasms. It is often used in patients with hypertension or post-stroke sequelae marked by wind-stirring symptoms.
Alleviates Headache & Dizziness
This herb is particularly helpful for migraines or tension headaches accompanied by dizziness, irritability, or a heavy sensation in the head. It is commonly used in both excess and deficiency patterns of Liver Yang rising.
Relieves Convulsions & Spasms
Tian Ma is used in cases of seizures, epilepsy, or childhood convulsions. It helps control involuntary movement and muscular tremors due to wind-phlegm or heat stirring Liver Wind internally.
Disperses Wind-Dampness & Relieves Pain
Although primarily known for its neurological effects, Tian Ma can also be used for bi syndrome involving wind-damp obstruction with numbness, heaviness, or limited mobility of the limbs.
Supports Cognitive & Neurological Function
Used in modern clinical practice to support recovery from stroke, improve balance and coordination, and relieve neurodegenerative symptoms such as tremors and cognitive decline.
Indications
Dizziness, vertigo, or headache due to internal wind or Liver Yang rising.
Spasms, tremors, or seizures from internal wind or phlegm-heat.
Numbness, stiffness, or pain from wind-damp obstruction.
Post-stroke symptoms such as hemiplegia, tremor, or poor balance.
Hypertension, tinnitus, or blurred vision with dizziness.
Diagnostic de la langue et du pouls en MTC
Tongue: Pale or red with a thin white or yellow coating, depending on the underlying pattern.
Pulse: Wiry, thin, or floating, often indicating wind, tension, or Liver Yang rising.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Tian Ma
Tian Ma treats Liver Wind stirring internally, Liver Yang rising, wind-phlegm obstructing the channels, and wind-dampness affecting the limbs. These patterns typically involve dizziness, tremors, numbness, spasm, or neurological dysfunction, particularly in elderly or hypertensive patients.
Précautions et contre-indications
Use with caution in cases of significant Qi or Blood Deficiency without internal wind.
Not typically used for cold-type convulsions or when no signs of wind or excess are present.
Avoid excessive use in patients with weak digestion.
Conclusion
Tian Ma is a gentle yet effective herb for extinguishing internal wind and calming the nervous system. It plays a key role in treating dizziness, tremors, convulsions, and neurological disorders, especially those related to Liver imbalances and wind-phlegm. Its ability to harmonize movement and restore balance makes it a valuable herb in both classical and modern neurological care.
