Cluster Headache - Blood Stasis Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for cluster headache
Cluster Headache · Blood Stasis Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Head
Pattern Overview
Blood Stasis is a common pattern in cluster headache, characterized by
**trigeminal vascular activation, neurogenic inflammation, CGRP/PACAP38
release, fixed severe pain, and chronic attacks**. The core pathogenesis
is Blood stasis in the head collaterals, causing trigeminal vascular
activation, neurogenic inflammation, and persistent severe pain.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
stabbing quality |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
location, poor response to treatment |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
pulse |
| Pathogenesis | Blood stasis in the head collaterals |
|---|
| Etiology |
|---|
circulation |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Fengchi (GB20) |
|---|
sternocleidomastoid and trapezius | Unblocks the head collaterals and
relieves pain |
| Taiyang (EX-HN5) | In the depression at the temple |
|---|
headache; invigorates blood in the head |
| Hegu (LI4) |
|---|
metacarpals | Regulates Qi and invigorates blood |
| Xuehai (SP10) | On the medial thigh, 2 cun above the patella |
|---|
Invigorates blood and resolves stasis |
| Ashi points | Tender spots around the head |
|---|
invigoration and pain relief |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; may
combine with cupping on the neck to enhance blood stasis resolution.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Tong Qiao Huo Xue Tang (通窍活血汤)
Composition:
Peach Kernel (Tao Ren), Safflower (Hong Hua), Angelica (Dang Gui),
Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Red Peony (Chi Shao), Musk (She Xiang),
Scallion (Lao Cong), Ginger (Sheng Jiang), Jujube (Hong Zao), Licorice
(Gan Cao)
Action: Invigorates blood, resolves stasis, unblocks the orifices,
and relieves pain.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe pain | Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain |
|---|
| Dizziness | Add Tian Ma, Gou Teng to calm Liver Wind |
|---|
| Dull complexion | Add Dan Shen, San Qi to enhance blood invigoration |
|---|
| Qi deficiency |
|---|
invigorate blood |
Western Mechanism Reference
Trigeminal vascular activation causing neurogenic inflammation, with
CGRP/PACAP38 release causing vasodilation. Blood Stasis corresponds to
chronic cluster headache, where CGRP/PACAP38 release and neurogenic
inflammation contribute to persistent severe pain.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Headache with Blood Stasis.
2. Xiong Jibai: Blood Stasis uses Tao Hong Si Wu Tang.
3. WHO. (2023). Headache disorders. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for headache relief.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM headache management.
Related TCM Patterns for Cluster Headache
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.