Is it possible for powdered scorpion to prevent a heart attack?

Do you find insects covered in black garlic and rose oil intriguing? How about fried tarantulas or crickets coated in chocolate?

Celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, and Justin Timberlake support the idea of consuming bugs for their potential benefits. If eating insects directly doesn't appeal to you, you might consider taking capsules containing powdered scorpion, cockroach, centipede, leech, and cicada for potential health advantages, like reducing the risk of a heart attack.

A recent study suggests that extracts from these insects could have positive effects...

During the American Heart Association conference in Chicago last November, Dr. Yuejin Yang, a Chinese doctor and scientist, presented a unique topic that caught the attention of many attendees more accustomed to Western medicine.

Although the combination of insects he discussed raised some eyebrows, the outcomes were surprisingly positive.

Dr. Dipti Itchhaporia, the immediate past president of the American College of Cardiology, was intrigued by the presentation, stating, "Hearing it in the audience was like, wow, really? That sounds fascinating, please tell me more."

Approved for Use in China Since 1996

Researchers conducted a clinical trial involving 3,797 patients who suffered from a severe heart attack called STEMI and were treated at 124 hospitals across China. The trial was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, providing a high level of scientific proof.

Aside from conventional treatments like medications and stents, half of the patients were given tongxinluo (TXL), a supplement containing various insects and herbs such as panax ginseng, frankincense, sandalwood, and rosewood. The formula aims to strengthen Qi and improve blood circulation based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. TXL has been authorized for treating angina and stroke in China since 1996.

The other half received a placebo that was indistinguishable in appearance, smell, and taste from the active supplement. The results were remarkable.

Significant Decrease in Heart Attacks and Mortality

After 30 days, the group taking TXL showed a 36% lower rate of major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events (MACCE) compared to the placebo group. Cardiac death was 30% lower in the TXL group, and there were no recurring heart attacks, unlike the nine in the placebo group.

Four patients in the TXL group had a stroke, while nine did in the placebo group.

After one year, the rates of MACCE, cardiac death, repeat heart attack, and stroke were significantly lower in patients who received TXL during the trial.

The results of the trial received a mix of admiration and confusion from conventional medical professionals.

Western Prejudice Against TCM

Dr. Itchhaporia found the results intriguing and stressed the importance of further evidence to authenticate the findings. Dr. Kenneth Mahaffey from Stanford University found the results intriguing but also called for more data.

Cardiologist Dr. Sidney Smith from the University of North Carolina acknowledged the impressive results but pointed out the importance of better understanding the findings.

There exists a bias among Western-trained medical experts against Traditional Chinese Medicine, as seen in Dr. Itchhaporia's response to the mention of insects.

Professor Albert Ferro from King’s College London highlighted the skepticism in the Western world towards TCM compared to its acceptance in China.

My Conclusion

There is a prevailing bias in conventional medicine against natural medical practices like Traditional Chinese Medicine. Many conventional doctors heavily rely on pharmaceutical solutions, despite the limitations and potential side effects linked with prescription drugs.

If you are interested in exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine remedies like TXL, it is advisable to consult a TCM practitioner or center. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) offers a national directory of certified acupuncturists and TCM practitioners on their website https://www.nccaom.org/find-a-practitioner-directory/.