Randomized Controlled Trial of Traditional Chinese Medicine Combined with Western Medicine for the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

• TCM combined with Western medicine significantly reduced NIHSS scores at 14 days compared to placebo, indicating enhanced neurological recovery. • The TCM group had a higher rate of favorable functional outcomes (mRS 0-2) at 90 days, suggesting long-term benefit. • The combination therapy was safe, with no significant increase in adverse events compared to placebo. • These results provide robust evidence for integrating TCM into standard acute ischemic stroke care.