Chinese Herbs and Circulation

A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

Traditional Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years as part of a broader system of health and wellbeing. In recent years there has been growing interest in how traditional herbal approaches relate to modern understandings of circulation, inflammation, and overall cardiovascular health.

Within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the heart is viewed not only as a physical organ but as part of a wider network involving circulation, energy (Qi), blood, digestion, and emotional balance. Because of this interconnected perspective, herbal prescriptions are rarely based on a single herb or a fixed formula. Instead, combinations of herbs are traditionally selected according to the individual presentation of each patient.

Herbs Traditionally Associated with Circulation

A number of herbs appear frequently in classical Chinese formulas historically used to support the smooth movement of blood and Qi.

Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza)

Dan Shen is one of the most widely researched herbs in Chinese medicine in relation to cardiovascular physiology. Modern scientific investigations have explored its potential influence on circulation, microvascular flow, and inflammatory pathways.

In traditional Chinese medicine, Dan Shen is described as an herb that “invigorates blood” and helps support healthy circulation.

Ji Xue Teng (Spatholobus stem)

Ji Xue Teng has traditionally been used to both nourish and move blood. Classical herbal texts often describe it as helping circulation while also supporting the nourishment of tissues.

Modern research has examined bioactive compounds within the plant that may influence vascular function.

Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis)

Dang Gui is widely known within Chinese herbal medicine and has traditionally been valued for its ability to nourish and move blood. Although often associated with women’s health, it has historically been used in formulas for both men and women.

Research has explored its potential anti-inflammatory and vascular effects.

Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong)

Chuan Xiong is a classic herb used to promote the movement of both Qi and blood. In traditional formulas it is frequently included where circulation is considered constrained.

Modern research has investigated compounds within the herb that may influence vascular tone and blood flow.

Gua Lou (Trichosanthes fruit)

Gua Lou, along with its related parts Gua Lou Ren (seed) and Gua Lou Pi (peel), appears in classical formulas associated with chest congestion from a traditional Chinese medicine perspective.

Within TCM theory these herbs are used to transform phlegm and open the chest.

Ge Gen (Pueraria root)

Ge Gen is traditionally used to relax muscular tension and promote circulation, particularly in the upper body. Modern research has examined compounds within the root that may influence vascular function and muscle perfusion.

Herbs Bridging Digestion and Circulation

Traditional Chinese medicine recognises that digestion and circulation are closely connected. Because of this, herbs supporting digestive function may also appear in formulas that address circulatory balance.

Shan Zha (Hawthorn fruit)

Shan Zha (Crataegus fruit) has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, particularly to assist digestion of rich or fatty foods. Classical texts describe it as helping to reduce food stagnation and support digestive transformation.

Modern research into hawthorn species has explored potential relationships with cardiovascular physiology, including circulation and lipid metabolism. Because digestive function and the formation of internal phlegm are closely related in TCM theory, Shan Zha may sometimes appear in formulas where both digestion and circulation are considered.

Jiang Huang (Turmeric rhizome)

Jiang Huang (Curcuma longa) is traditionally used to move Qi and blood and to support the smooth flow of circulation. In recent years turmeric has also attracted widespread scientific interest due to research into its anti-inflammatory compounds.

In traditional herbal formulas, Jiang Huang may be combined with other herbs depending on the overall pattern identified during diagnosis.

Additional Herbs Sometimes Included in Circulatory Formulas

Depending on the individual presentation, practitioners may also consider herbs such as:

• Hong Hua (Carthamus flower) – traditionally used to promote blood movement
• Chi Shao (Red Peony root) – used to cool and move blood in herbal theory
• Yu Jin (Curcuma root) – associated with Qi movement and emotional constraint
• San Qi (Panax notoginseng) – historically valued for supporting circulation

The final herbal combination depends on the individual pattern identified during consultation.

Individualised Herbal Prescriptions

One of the central principles of Chinese herbal medicine is individualisation. Two people with a similar Western diagnosis may receive different herbal combinations depending on their overall pattern according to traditional diagnostic methods.

For example:

• If digestive weakness or reduced “spleen Qi” is present, herbs supporting digestion and fluid metabolism may be included.
• If emotional stress or liver Qi stagnation is contributing to tension in the body, herbs that support the smooth movement of Qi may be considered.
• If phlegm accumulation is part of the traditional diagnosis, herbs such as Gua Lou Ren or Gua Lou Pi may form part of the formula.

Because of this approach, Chinese herbal medicine is generally prescribed as a customised formula tailored to the individual rather than as a single standard product.

Traditional Knowledge and Modern Research

Growing interest in traditional medicine has led to increasing scientific investigation into the pharmacological properties of Chinese herbs. Research areas have included:

• circulation and vascular physiology
• inflammatory pathways
• oxidative stress and cellular protection
• microcirculation and tissue perfusion

While modern research is expanding our understanding, traditional Chinese herbal medicine has always been practiced as a system where herbs are combined in carefully balanced formulas.

Professional Herbal Advice

Chinese herbal medicine should be prescribed by a qualified practitioner trained in herbal safety, herb–drug interactions, and traditional diagnostic methods.

At The Acupuncture Clinic, herbal prescriptions are individually tailored following a consultation.

I am a registered practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine in New Zealand with over 40 years of clinical experience, and herbal medicine forms an important part of the traditional system used in clinical practice.

Educational Disclaimer

This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Anyone with cardiovascular symptoms or concerns should consult their medical doctor or qualified healthcare professional.

To find a registered Chinese herbalist in New Zealand please contact Acupuncture NZ.