Moving beyond pain management to restore internal harmony and lasting relief.

As a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM), I often see patients who feel like they are at the mercy of a recurring storm. In Western medicine, a migraine is frequently treated as a chemical or vascular event in the brain. In TCM, however, we view a migraine as a diagnostic signal—a “red light” on the dashboard indicating a deep-seated imbalance in the body’s organ systems and the flow of Qi (vital energy).

The TCM Perspective on Migraines

We do not believe there is a “one-size-fits-all” migraine. Two people may have identical throbbing pain, but one may be caused by Liver Yang Rising (often triggered by stress and anger), while the other stems from Blood Deficiency or Phlegm-Dampness. By identifying the specific “pattern” of the individual, we treat the root cause rather than just masking the symptoms.

The Power of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is exceptionally effective for migraines because it works on multiple physiological levels. From a modern clinical perspective, it stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins and encephalins—the body’s natural painkillers. From a TCM perspective, we use ultra-fine needles to unblock “stagnation” in the meridians. When Qi flows freely, pain subsides. Research consistently shows that regular acupuncture can reduce both the frequency and intensity of attacks, often outperforming standard preventive medications with far fewer side effects.

Targeted Chinese Herbs

While acupuncture handles the immediate flow of energy, Chinese herbal medicine acts as the internal architecture of the treatment. We prescribe customized formulas—such as Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin for hypertension-related headaches or Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San for external “wind” patterns. These herbs nourish the blood, calm the liver, and resolve the internal “wind” that causes the sudden, shifting nature of migraine pain.

A Holistic Recovery

At Blue Heron Traditional Chinese Medicine, we look at your sleep, digestion, and emotional landscape. Migraines are often a symptom of a body that has lost its ability to regulate itself. By combining the precision of acupuncture with the restorative power of herbs, we don’t just “manage” your headaches; we help your body return to a state of equilibrium where the migraines no longer have a reason to occur.

Curious if TCM is right for you? Understanding your unique “pattern” is the first step toward lasting recovery. Reach out to our team at Blue Heron Traditional Chinese Medicine to learn more about how acupuncture and customized herbal formulas can support your journey to health.

Dr. Julia Pileski

Blue Heron Traditional Chinese Medicine + Gemini