Cluster Headache - Phlegm-Turbidity Obscuring the Orifices
TCM differentiation and treatment for cluster headache
Cluster Headache · Phlegm-Turbidity Obscuring the Orifices Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Head
Pattern Overview
Phlegm-Turbidity Obscuring the Orifices is a pattern in cluster
headache, characterized by **hypothalamic rhythm dysregulation,
melatonin secretion disorder, heavy head sensation, nausea, and chest
tightness. The core pathogenesis is Phlegm-Turbidity accumulating in
the head**, causing hypothalamic rhythm dysregulation and headache.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
tightness |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
heavy sensation, dizziness |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
coating, slippery pulse |
| Pathogenesis | Phlegm-Turbidity obstructing the clear orifices |
|---|
| Etiology |
|---|
constitution |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Fenglong (ST40) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Transforms Phlegm and Dampness |
| Touwei (ST8) |
|---|
4.5 cun lateral to the midline | Clears the head and relieves headache |
| Zhongwan (RN12) | 4 cun above the umbilicus |
|---|
Stomach and transforms Phlegm |
| Yinlingquan (SP9) | Below the medial condyle of the tibia |
|---|
Transforms Dampness and promotes diuresis |
| Baihui (GV20) |
|---|
anterior hairline | Lifts Yang and clears the head |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, even method; moxibustion
may be added to strengthen the Spleen and transform Phlegm.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang (半夏白术天麻汤)
Composition:
Pinellia (Fa Ban Xia), Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Gastrodia (Tian Ma),
Poria (Fu Ling), Tangerine Peel (Ju Hong), Licorice (Gan Cao), Ginger
(Sheng Jiang), Jujube (Da Zao)
Action: Transforms Phlegm, clears the head, and stops dizziness.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Heavy head sensation |
|---|
transform turbidity |
| Nausea | Add Xuan Fu Hua, Dai Zhe Shi to descend rebellious Qi |
|---|
| Chest tightness |
|---|
distension |
| Dizziness | Add Gou Teng, Shi Jue Ming to calm Liver Wind |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Hypothalamic rhythm dysregulation with melatonin secretion disorder and
histamine metabolism abnormality. Phlegm-Turbidity Obscuring the
Orifices corresponds to cluster headache with rhythm disturbance, where
hypothalamic dysregulation and melatonin secretion disorder contribute
to headache pattern.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Headache with Phlegm-Turbidity.
2. Xiong Jibai: Phlegm-Dampness uses Er Chen Tang with Tian Ma.
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.