cold and flu

 Cold and Flu – How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Helps

Introduction

Both the flu and the common cold are common viral infections that can significantly affect our well-being. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers effective methods for preventing and treating these infections, based on herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and dietary recommendations. In TCM, infections are treated as imbalances in the body's energy, so treatment aims to restore harmony, strengthen immunity, and alleviate symptoms.

TCM Herbs for Colds and Flu

In TCM, various herbs help support the immune system and relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Here are some popular ingredients used in TCM:

Jin Yin Hua (flowering honeysuckle) – Used to relieve sore throats, fevers, and cleanse the body of toxins.

Huang Qi (Astragalus root) – Helps strengthen immunity and protect the body against infections.

Gan Cao (licorice) – Has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that support the respiratory system.

Ginger – Ginger helps warm the body and is used for chills, muscle pain, and nausea.

These herbs can be used in the form of tea or infusions to help the body fight infection.

Acupressure for Colds and Flu

Acupressure is a technique that involves stimulating specific points on the body to boost the body's natural defenses. Here are three points that can help relieve cold and flu symptoms:

LI4 (Hegu) – A point on the palm, between the thumb and forefinger. Helps relieve headaches, reduce fever and improve energy flow.

LU7 (Lieque) – A point on the inside of the forearm, about 2 cm above the wrist. Used to support the respiratory system, relieve coughing and shortness of breath.

ST36 (Zusanli) – A point on the legs, 3 cm below the kneecap, along the shin bone. Stimulating this point strengthens the immune system and adds energy.

How to use acupressure:

Press on these points for about 1-2 minutes, using gentle, circular motions. Repeat 2-3 times daily to relieve symptoms and speed recovery.

Qigong for Immunity

Qigong is an ancient movement technique that helps balance the energy in the body and support a healthy immune system. The Abdominal Breathing exercise is a simple way to encourage energy flow and help the body fight infection:

Stand or sit comfortably, relax your shoulders.

Inhale slowly through your nose, filling your belly with air, not just your chest.

Exhale through your mouth, allowing your belly to slowly fall.

Repeat for 5-10 minutes to relax the body and increase energy flow.

Diet and Immunity according to TCM

In TCM, diet is a key element that can help the body fight off colds and flu. During periods of infection, it is recommended to avoid cold and raw foods, which can weaken the "inner fire" and digestive system. Instead, it is worth opting for warm soups, cooked vegetables and warming drinks.

Featured products:

Ginger – Added to tea or meals to warm the body.

Garlic and onion – Have antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Cinnamon – Helps maintain body heat and supports the immune system.

Recipe for Warming Ginger Tea with Lemon and Honey

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon fresh, grated ginger

1 glass of water

Juice from half a lemon

1 teaspoon honey (after cooling)

Preparation:

Boil water and add grated ginger.

Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Once slightly cooled, add lemon juice and honey.

Drink slowly, preferably warm.

Why does it work?

Ginger warms the body and supports the immune system, lemon provides vitamin C, and honey soothes sore throats and has antibacterial properties.

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a comprehensive approach to treating colds and flu, based on the harmony of body and mind. Herbs, acupressure, Qigong exercises, and a proper diet can support the body in fighting infections. With these methods, you can not only alleviate symptoms, but also strengthen immunity for the future.

Other diseases

Here you will find new information about Flu and Cold and ways of treatment with TCM