🌿 Folk Prescriptions

Hypertension is a clinical syndrome primarily characterized by elevated arterial pressure and is the most common cardiovascular disease.
Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes hypertension into several syndromes such as liver yang hyperactivity, but generally speaking, deficiency of liver yin and virtual yang rising are common pathogenic mechanisms. Besides high blood pressure, patients often experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, flushed face, tinnitus, constipation, and bitter taste in mouth. There are also varying degrees of lesions in the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and fundus.
The key to managing hypertension lies in “prevention first.” In recent years, ear acupressure therapy has been proven to stabilize blood pressure to some extent. Ear acupressure can prevent hypertension, show good therapeutic effects on mild cases, and provide valuable auxiliary treatment for moderate and severe cases. According to TCM, “the ears are where the major meridians converge.” All twelve meridians connect to the ears. When any organ or body part becomes diseased, its condition can be reflected via meridians onto corresponding points on the auricle. There is a depression on the back of the ear called the “hypotensive groove,” located diagonally from the upper inner part to the lower outer part of the auricle. Due to its ability to stabilize blood pressure, it is also known as the “hypotensive groove.”
Acupoints: Hypotensive groove, Hypotensive point, Liver point, Kidney point, Endocrine point, Adrenal point, Auricular helix, Postauricular region.
Massage Method: Use the “White Tiger Descending Mountain” technique (using the fingertips of both index or index and middle fingers, massage the hypotensive groove on both ear backs from top to bottom—this method is named for its motion resembling a white tiger descending mountains). Massage the postauricular hypotensive groove for 6 minutes at approximately 90 times per minute, until the area feels red and hot. Rub the auricular helix for 6 minutes at about 90 times per minute, focusing on the ear tip. Palm-rub the postauricular region at about 120 times per minute. Treat other acupoints using ear seed therapy with Vaccaria seeds, selecting 3–4 points alternately each time, switching between left and right ears. For mild hypertension patients, press the seeds twice daily (morning and evening). For moderate or severe cases, increase pressing frequency appropriately. Also combine with Zhiyong (Yǒngquán) point on the sole of the foot: palm-rub the Zhiyong point for 5 minutes at about 180 times per minute.
Special Note: Hypertensive patients should be cautious—massaging the lower part of the ear behind the ear root may raise blood pressure.
Besides ear acupressure, hypertensive patients should also: monitor blood pressure regularly, follow medical advice for antihypertensive medication; control diet and weight; limit salt intake; maintain optimistic mood, balance work and rest, keep regular routines; engage in aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, and tai chi.