New approach to heart failure: Integrated traditional Chinese with Western medicine

Abstract

Heart failure (HF) is a major global healthcare problem leading to substantial deterioration of prognosis. The current clinical guidelines in HF have begun to emphasize the importance of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TCM has been utilized in clinical practice for over 2000 years and is capable of treating a variety of HF pathogenic issues. This review summarizes the classification, pathophysiology, and treatment of HF from three perspectives: Western medicine, TCM, and integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine (ITCWM). Emphasizing the most recent evidence, this review consolidates knowledge on ITCWM treatments for HF pertaining to different TCM syndromes, including TCM decoctions, oral patent Chinese medicine, TCM injections, as well as therapies like acupuncture and moxibustion. Additionally, this review explores TCM approaches to HF prevention, such as tai chi, Baduanjin exercise, and Sanfu acupoint herbal patching. The findings of this study suggest that ITCWM holds promise for the treatment and rehabilitation of HF. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.