Clinical Applications
Symmetry is designed to support neurological health, reduce pain, and restore balance in conditions caused by wind, phlegm, and blood stagnation. It may be beneficial for:
- Bell’s palsy and other forms of facial paralysis
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Migraine headaches related to wind, phlegm, and blood stagnation
- Post-stroke sequelae, including muscle twitching and nerve-related discomfort
Western Therapeutic Actions
Modern studies and traditional use suggest that Symmetry offers:
- Neurological benefits to address facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, and migraine headaches
- Analgesic effects to relieve pain
- Anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and tissue inflammation
- Antiseizure and antiepileptic actions to ease post-stroke sequelae and nerve-related pain
TCM Therapeutic Actions
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, Symmetry helps to:
- Release exterior wind
- Open the channels and collaterals to restore movement
- Activate qi and blood circulation to nourish and revitalize tissues
Dosage / Treatment Plan
- Standard dosage: 4 to 6 capsules, three times daily
- For faster relief: increase to 8 capsules, three times daily on day one of herbal therapy
- Begin treatment at the earliest signs of symptoms for best results
- If herbs cause nausea or stomach discomfort, take after meals instead of on an empty stomach
- Acupuncture: 6-8 weekly rounds of auricular acupuncture or until symptoms are resolved.
Cautions & Contraindications
- This is a potent formula containing herbs that are considered slightly toxic in TCM. Dosage must be carefully tailored to age, body weight, and severity of condition (see Strategic Dosing Guidelines for age/weight charts).
- Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing
- Use with extreme caution in pediatric and geriatric patients, and only when benefits outweigh potential risks
- Contains Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), which invigorates blood circulation. Patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy (e.g., warfarin) should avoid or use only under medical supervision due to increased bleeding risk
Nutrition
A nutrient-rich diet can support nerve recovery and overall health:
- Consume a variety of vegetables high in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and E to nourish nerve and circulatory systems
- Incorporate raw fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds for a complete source of nutrients—especially B vitamins, which protect nerve health
- Avoid:
- Cold, icy foods and drinks
- Fried, smoked, or barbecued foods
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Eliminate aluminum exposure from cookware, aluminum foil, antacids, and processed foods. Drinking steam-distilled water may help remove unwanted aluminum from the body
Lifestyle Instructions
- Engage in daily exercise and maintain a positive, hopeful outlook to support healing and recovery
- Incorporate deep breathing exercises and regular workouts to oxygenate the blood and improve circulation
- For post-stroke recovery or Bell’s palsy:
- Gentle exercises such as walking and tai chi chuan (tai ji chuan) are highly recommended
- Avoid exposure to wind and cold
- Strictly avoid biking, or direct exposure to fans, drafts, or air conditioning, which can worsen symptoms
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Never self-prescribe herbal formulas. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
Adapted from Clinical Manual of Oriental Medicine: An Integrative Approach (3rd ed., 2016, Lotus Institute of Integrative Medicine).