head or frequently on the forehead only, especially when it is due to Stomach-Qi deficiency.
This headache comes in bouts, it is dull in nature and is alleviated by rest and aggravated by
excessive work. It is also better lying down and is worse in the mornings.
Other manifestations include poor appetite, tiredness, loose stools, slight breathlessness and an
Empty pulse. In case of Heart-Qi deficiency there would also be some slight palpitations and
breathlessness on exertion. The "Simple Questions" in chapter 18 says that in headaches from
deficiency of Qi of the Heart or Lungs, the Front position pulse (of both right and left) can feel
Short, i.e. not quite reaching the top of the pulse position.10(72)
Treatment Principle
Tonify and raise Qi.
Acupuncture
General Prescription
ST-36 Zusanli, Ren-6 Qihai, SP-6 Sanyinjiao, Du-20 Baihui. All with reinforcing method. Du-20
with direct moxibustion.
Explanation
- ST-36 and SP-6 in combination strongly tonify Qi.
- Ren-6 tonifies and raises Qi.
- Du-20 raises Yang.
Other Points
- L.I.-4 Hegu when reinforced in combination with ST-36, can tonify and raise Qi. For this
reason it would be particularly indicated if the headache is on the forehead since this is
the area affected by this point. - BL-7 Tongtian can be used as a local point to raise Qi, especially if there is some
deficiency of the Kidneys. - BL-20 Pishu can be used to tonify and raise Qi since this is a function of Spleen-Qi.
Herbal Treatment