vaccinations and tcm

Vaccinations and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): A Holistic View

Vaccinations are one of the most important pillars of modern preventive medicine, but how is this topic viewed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? TCM is a healing system based on energy balance and the pursuit of harmony between body, mind and the external environment. From a TCM perspective, health is the result of maintaining a balance between yin and yang forces and the free flow of Qi energy . So how do vaccinations fit into this philosophy?

TCM Approach to Health Prevention and Immunity

In TCM, immunity is closely linked to the concept of Wei Qi , a “defensive energy” that circulates close to the surface of the body, creating a natural “shield” against external pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. Wei Qi is powered by energy flowing from the organs, especially the lungs and spleen , and is supported by the harmonious cooperation of all organs.

Strengthening Wei Qi is a central principle of prevention in TCM. When Wei Qi is strong, the body is less susceptible to infection. When it is weak, the body is more susceptible to external factors. Although classical TCM did not include vaccinations, which are an invention of modern medicine, its principles can be adapted to modern realities.

A Contemporary TCM View of Vaccination

Today, some TCM practitioners take a pragmatic approach to vaccination, recognizing its value as a method of disease prevention. In TCM, vaccinations can be viewed as “external” stimuli that strengthen the body’s immunity over time, operating on the principle of controlled exposure to a given pathogen.

TCM practitioners often emphasize that in order for the body to respond appropriately to a vaccine, it must be in a good energetic state. When Qi energy is balanced and harmonious, the body adapts better to the "stimulus" of vaccination and minimizes the risk of side effects.

How to prepare the body for vaccination from a TCM perspective?

From a TCM perspective, it is worth preparing the body for vaccination by strengthening Wei Qi and harmonizing organ functions. Here are some tips:

Strengthening the Lungs and Spleen – These two organs are crucial to immune health in TCM. Proper breathing exercises and a balanced diet can support lung and spleen function.

Healthy diet – Before vaccination, it is worth taking care of a light diet, rich in warm and nutritious products. Products such as soups, stewed vegetables, rice, ginger and garlic are recommended, which support the spleen Qi and do not burden digestion.

Herbs to Support Wei Qi – TCM practitioners may recommend certain herbs to boost immunity before and after vaccination. These include:

Huang Qi (Astragalus) – Strengthens Qi and supports the immune system, preparing the body for potential challenges.

Gan Cao (Licorice) – It is used to harmonize the actions of other herbs and supports lung and stomach function.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) – The reishi mushroom is valued for its properties that support immunity and aid in the regeneration of the body.

Qigong Exercises – Regular practice of Qigong improves Qi circulation, which can support Wei Qi and recovery from vaccination. Exercises focused on strengthening the lower Dantian (an energy area in the lower abdomen) are especially beneficial for immunity.

Acupressure and Acupuncture as support before and after vaccination

Acupuncture and acupressure can support the body before and after vaccination, helping to balance Qi and reduce potential side effects. Here are some points that are particularly helpful:

LI4 (Hegu) – This point is located between the thumb and index finger. Stimulation of LI4 supports the flow of Qi and helps reduce stress and tension.

ST36 (Zusanli) – Located on the lower leg, below the knee. This is a point that strengthens Qi and immunity, and also supports the spleen and stomach, which is beneficial before vaccination.

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – This point is located on the inside of the calf, about three fingers above the ankle. SP6 massage helps balance hormones and immunity, and relieves stress.

Diet and lifestyle to support recovery after vaccination

Diet and lifestyle play an important role in the recovery process after vaccination from a TCM perspective. After vaccination, it is important to take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise for a few days, which will allow the body to focus its energy on recovery.

Dietary recommendations:

Light, nutritious meals – Warm, easily digestible foods such as vegetable soups, groats and rice are recommended, which support the spleen.

Ginger and Garlic – These natural anti-inflammatory agents can aid in the body’s cleansing process and support Qi.

Herbal Teas – Ginkgo biloba or chamomile tea helps calm the body and mind, supporting regeneration.

Recipe for a tea to boost immunity after vaccination

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon astragalus root (Huang Qi)

1 teaspoon dried licorice (Gan Cao)

2-3 slices of fresh ginger

500 ml hot water

Preparation:

Pour hot water over all ingredients and steep covered for 10-15 minutes.

Strain the infusion and drink warm, preferably twice a day for several days after vaccination.

Why does it work?

Astragalus strengthens Wei Qi, licorice harmonizes the body's energy, and ginger has a warming effect that supports regeneration.

Summary

Vaccinations from a TCM perspective can be seen as an additional stimulus for the immune system. Although vaccinations are part of modern medicine, their effectiveness can be increased by taking care of the body's energy balance before and after the vaccination. By using TCM methods - such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, acupressure, Qigong and a proper diet - we can support the body to respond to the vaccination in a harmonious way and minimize potential side effects.

TCM promotes a holistic approach to health, and vaccinations can be incorporated into this philosophy, treating them as one of the tools to support health and immunity in the long run.

However, whether you decide to get vaccinated depends only on your decision... Or will you just stick

to natural strengthening of the body

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