Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang vs. Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin
Dizziness (Vertigo) is often treated in TCM with formulas containing the herbTian Ma(Gastrodia) contain. However, the accompanying herbs determine whichtypedizziness the formula works.
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang: Phlegm Wind
The cause of dizziness here is “mucus” blocking the clear openings of the head. This is also called “wind phlegm.”
Symptoms:The dizziness feels like a “heavy head,” as if wrapped in a wet towel. The world is spinning. There is often nausea, a feeling of fullness in the chest or stomach, excessive saliva, and a thick, greasy coating on the tongue. The person often feels tired and “foggy” in the head.
Approach:The formula dissolves mucus (Ban Xia, Bai Zhu) and strengthens the Spleen to stop the production of new mucus.
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin: Liver Yang Increase
Here the cause is “Heat and Wind” rising from the Liver to the head.
Symptoms:The dizziness is severe and accompanied by loss of balance. There are clear signs of heat: a flushed face, a throbbing headache, high-pitched tinnitus, irritability, outbursts of anger, and insomnia. The tongue is red. This is more likely a symptom of high blood pressure.
Approach:The formula containsGou Teng in Shi Jue Mingto forcefully pull the rising Yang down and calm the Liver.
Conclusion
Is the dizziness “heavy, nauseous, and foggy”? Choose theBan XiaVariant. Is the dizziness “tense, red, and angry”? Choose theGou Teng variant.