pneumonia

 Pneumonia (Pneumonia) - Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment with Herbs, Acupressure and Qi Gong

Pneumonia, or pneumonia, is an inflammation of the lungs, most often caused by a bacterial or viral infection. It presents with cough, shortness of breath, fever, and sometimes chest pain. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches treatment of this condition holistically, using herbs, acupressure, and Qi Gong exercises to restore energy balance and strengthen the body.

1. Herbs for treating pneumonia

In TCM, pneumonia is classified as an excessive accumulation of heat and dampness in the lungs, which blocks the flow of Qi and leads to inflammation. The herbs used in this case have anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. Two of these, Yu Xing Cao and Huang Qin , are particularly effective in relieving the symptoms of pneumonia.

Yu Xing Cao (Houttuynia cordata)

Also known as “fish grass,” this herb has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Yu Xing Cao is traditionally used to treat upper respiratory tract infections and lung inflammation. This herb supports the lungs’ natural cleansing of excess moisture and heat, which can help relieve coughs and reduce shortness of breath. It also has expectorant properties, which can help clear the lungs of phlegm.

Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis)

Huang Qin is a plant valued for its strong anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. In TCM, it is used to reduce fever and to “dry” moisture in the body, which helps reduce inflammation and remove heat from the lungs. Huang Qin also supports the immune system, which allows the body to fight infection more effectively. It is particularly effective in treating viral infections.

Recipe for a simple herbal mixture for pneumonia:

Ingredients:

10g Yu Xing Cao (dried fish grass)

5g Huang Qin (Baikal skullcap root)

5g Gan Cao (licorice root that soothes the taste and strengthens the lungs)

3 cups of water

Instructions:

Boil water in a pot.

Add dried herbs and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.

Strain the liquid and drink it twice a day. Use for up to a week, observing the body's reaction.

Warnings:

Herbs may interact with some medications, so consult your doctor or qualified TCM practitioner before using them.

The use of herbs by pregnant women and people with liver or kidney problems should always be preceded by a medical consultation.

Make sure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients in the mixture.

2. Acupressure for pneumonia

Acupressure is a technique that involves stimulating specific points on the body to improve energy flow and aid the healing process.

Acupressure points to support the lungs:

LU1 (Zhong Fu) – The main lung point, helps relieve cough and improve breathing. Located on the chest, just below the collarbone.

LU5 (Chi Ze) – A point helpful in reducing heat and phlegm in the lungs, especially with dry or damp symptoms.

ST36 (Zu San Li) – This point strengthens the body’s immunity and overall Qi energy, which is beneficial in fighting infections.

Applying light pressure to each point for 2-3 minutes, twice a day, will help strengthen your lungs naturally.

3. Qi Gong exercises for the lungs

Qi Gong, an ancient Chinese practice, helps improve the flow of Qi energy, increase lung endurance, and generally aid the healing process. Regularly performing simple Qi Gong exercises for the lungs can support the body in fighting pneumonia.

Exercise: Longevity Breath

Stand straight with your feet hip-width apart.

Inhale deeply through your nose, raising your arms above your head as if you were gathering energy.

Hold your breath for a moment, then exhale slowly through your mouth, lowering your hands.

Repeat 8-10 times, focusing on the fluidity of movements and breathing.

Regularly practicing this exercise supports lung capacity and helps remove toxins while supporting the immune system.

Summary

The use of herbs, acupressure and Qi Gong for pneumonia is a comprehensive approach to supporting the body in fighting the infection. However, it is worth remembering that more serious cases of pneumonia may require conventional treatment, so any herbal and natural therapy should be consulted with a doctor, especially in the case of children, the elderly and chronically ill.

Final Notes:

Traditional Chinese Medicine can be a great support for milder cases of pneumonia or as an adjunct to conventional therapy. Herbs such as Yu Xing Cao and Huang Qin have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, and when combined with acupressure and Qi Gong, help the body recover faster.

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