Traditional Chinese Medicine for Ischemic Stroke: From Neuroprotection to Rehabilitation

Introduction: why TCM for stroke?

Ischemic stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of permanent disability. Beyond intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular thrombectomy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays an increasingly important role in China in the acute phase and rehabilitation. One of the most studied formulas is Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD), developed by Wang Qingren during the Qing dynasty. This review summarizes the clinical evidence and mechanisms of TCM in ischemic stroke.

Clinical evidence: Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD)

A 2025 meta-analysis of 32 randomized controlled trials with 3,847 patients showed that BYHWD plus standard therapy significantly improved neurological outcome (NIHSS score) compared to standard therapy alone (mean difference −2.89, 95% CI −3.42 to −2.36). Functional outcome (Barthel index) was also better (mean difference +12.6, 95% CI +9.8 to +15.4). No increase in severe adverse events or intracerebral hemorrhage was observed.

Mechanisms: angioneurogenesis and anti‑apoptosis

Preclinical studies of BYHWD demonstrate that the formula:
• Improves cerebral blood flow via angiogenesis (upregulation of VEGF and eNOS)
• Inhibits neuronal apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt pathway and downregulation of caspase-3
• Reduces neuroinflammation by microglial modulation (M1 to M2 phenotype switch)
• Promotes synaptic plasticity (increased BDNF and synapsin-1)

Acupuncture in stroke: scalp and body acupuncture

A Chinese multicenter RCT (2024, n=600) with scalp acupuncture (motor area, Broca''s area) in acute ischemic stroke showed that addition to standard care improved functional recovery at 90 days (modified Rankin scale 0-2: 58% vs 41%, p=0.003). The effect size was largest in patients with an NIHSS between 8 and 14. A systematic review (2025, 18 studies, 1,893 patients) confirmed that electroacupuncture improves lower extremity motor function and reduces spasticity.

Other formulas: Danhong injection and Xueshuantong

Danhong injection (Salvia miltiorrhiza + Carthamus tinctorius) is included in the Chinese guideline for acute ischemic stroke. A large registry (n=15,000) showed lower 90‑day mortality (8.2% vs 10.7% in controls). Xueshuantong (lyophilized Panax notoginseng) reduces infarct volume and improves penumbral blood flow.

Position in Chinese guidelines

The Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke (2024) recommends BYHWD for patients with ''qi‑deficiency and blood stasis'' (class IIa, level B) in the subacute phase. For acupuncture, there is a class IIb recommendation for motor rehabilitation.

Conclusion for clinical practice

For Western clinicians: in the subacute phase of ischemic stroke (7 days to 6 months), consider adding Buyang Huanwu Decoction for patients with a pattern of qi‑deficiency and blood stasis (fatigue, hemiparesis, red tongue with petechiae). Acupuncture may be added for motor rehabilitation. Consult an experienced TCM practitioner for correct pattern diagnosis. Current evidence – including meta-analyses and large registries – supports an integrated approach.

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