Supportive Treatment for Dementia in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dementia is not a single disease—it’s a spectrum of cognitive decline that affects memory, judgment, mood, social interaction, and basic functions like eating and dressing. While it’s more common with age, dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. Western medicine typically focuses on pharmaceutical management with limited emphasis on lifestyle, root cause, or prevention.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a whole-person, supportive approach to dementia based on millennia of clinical observation, energetic medicine, and holistic care. It integrates acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, movement, and mind-body practices to slow cognitive decline and enhance quality of life.

Understanding Dementia Through TCM Patterns

In TCM, dementia arises from energetic imbalances that impact brain function:

Essence (Jing) Depletion: associated with aging, leading to memory loss, impaired mobility, and reduced vitality. May manifest as dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, and insomnia.

Plaque (Mucus) Misting the Mind: Common in Lewy Body Dementia, showing up as confusion, hallucinations, and cognitive fog.

Liver Toxin (Qi) Stagnation: Causes emotional volatility, sleep issues, and digestive imbalance that affects mental clarity.

Circulation (Heart) and Nutritional (Spleen) Deficiency: Results in fatigue, anxiety, poor memory, and difficulty sleeping.

How TCM Can Help: Acupuncture and Herbal Support

Acupuncture Therapy for Cognitive Health

Acupuncture increases cerebral blood flow, reduces neuroinflammation, and helps regulate neurotransmitters. A growing body of research supports its role in improving dementia symptoms.

A study published in the journal Medicine found that acupuncture improved cognitive function and daily living abilities in Alzheimer’s patients when compared to medication alone.

Tuina Bodywork & Qi Gong for Mobility and Calm

Tuina bodywork helps reduce stiffness, lubricates joints, and calms agitation. Patients experience a sense of ease, improved circulation, and emotional regulation. Paired with Self-Healing Qi Gong, patients improve balance, coordination, and mental focus. Schedule an in-person or online instructional qi gong session here.

Chinese Herbal Medicine for Cognitive Clarity

TCM herbal formulas are personalized to address root patterns contributing to cognitive decline. Common herbs that boost cognitive function include:

Ginkgo Biloba: Studies have shown that ginkgo improves cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and age-related cognitive decline.

Gojiberry: Studies have shown that gojiberry polysaccharides may promote the formation of new neurons and protect existing neurons from programmed cell death. 

Schisandra Berry has been shown to improve memory retention and mental focus, even when under pressure. Improving blood flow to the brain ensures that neurons get enough oxygen and nutrients to function optimally, no matter what stressors are at play.

These and other herbs are found in the Fire Element Formula.

Nutritional Supplements that Support Brain Health

Brain Boost Neuro Plus: Formulated with DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol), this supplement may improve mental focus, clarity, and memory. Research shows DMAE supports neuroplasticity and attention span in aging populations.

Natural Carnitine: L-carnitine supports mitochondrial energy in brain cells. Clinical studies suggest it slows the progression of cognitive decline and supports mental energy.

Omega-3 with EPA/DHA: Essential fatty acids reduce inflammation and support neural integrity. Long-term studies show that Omega-3 improves cognitive performance and memory in elderly patients, especially in the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory.

Brain-Friendly TCM Diet

A therapeutic diet supports the Kidney, Spleen, and Heart. Eat berries and leafy greens, which are high in antioxidants, for immune and brain support. Eggs, rich in choline, support neurotransmitter function. Add black sesame seeds and walnuts to your meals to nourish Kidney and Blood, and beans and legumes, which contain B vitamins for mental energy and support Spleen Qi. Avoid greasy, processed, and overly sugary foods that promote dampness and phlegm. Explore brain-healthy recipes in Dr. Mao’s Secrets of Longevity Cookbook.

Lifestyle Medicine for Cognitive Preservation

Tai chi and qi gong improve balance, reduce fall risk, and sharpen focus. Meditation regulates stress, boosts sleep hygiene, and builds mental resilience. Try practicing Meditation for Stress Release daily. Staying social with community, family, and connections is vital for brain health.

Take the Next Step Toward Cognitive Wellness

If you or a loved one is facing early signs of memory decline, early support matters. At Tao of Wellness, our expert doctors use a time-tested integrative approach to help improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and enhance quality of life. Schedule a private consultation or acupuncture session today at taoofwellness.com or call us at (310) 917-2200.