Traditional Chinese Medicine for Relief and Prevention of the Common Cold
Traditional Chinese Medicine in NYC and Brooklyn for your Holistic Health
Everybody deals with the common cold, and many suggestions exist for avoiding catching a cold. At the same time, many of these good ideas must address the specific cold type. Some people have more robust immune systems than others, affecting how often they experience common cold symptoms. Also, there are many environmental factors to account for. And while nothing will work every time for every person, there are still ways a person can prepare for the cold season. Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture, Herbs, and Aromatherapy will prepare the body to prevent common cold symptoms.
With a rich history spanning nearly 3,000 years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has stood the test of time, utilizing various tools to help people maintain their health. According to TCM theories, there are six causes of external causes of disease: wind, cold, summer heat, dryness, dampness, and fire. The human body must adapt to changes in these elements to remain healthy. The primary cause of the common cold is wind, often associated with sudden or abnormal changes in the weather. Wind frequently combines with other forces to cause different types of illnesses, with the most common being wind cold and wind heat. Yet, to catch a cold, one must have a deficiency in Qi. This vital energy circulates in the body and is responsible for maintaining health. Qi is a fundamental concept in TCM, representing the body's vital energy and ability to resist disease. One such Qi is our Wei Qi, also known as our defensive energy.
According to TCM, there are 2 forms of a common cold: Wind-Cold and Wind-Heat. Wind-Cold invasions cause colds that are usually experienced during the snowy winter months, while the warmer months and the shifting of spring into summer into fall where we see symptoms of a Wind-Heat
Traditional Chinese Medicine has a proven track record in treating individuals who suffer from frequent colds. While every person has an immune system that typically fights off invasions of bacteria and viruses, factors such as stress, poor sleep, and improper diet can compromise this system, leading to a cold. TCM, however, emphasizes prevention through acupuncture, herbal formula, essential oils, and diet, offering a personalized approach that understands and cares for those seeking relief from frequent colds.
Regular acupuncture treatments can increase a person's immunity, making it easier to fight off any foreign invaders. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points in the body, promoting the flow of Qi, and enhancing the body's ability to resist pathogens. I remember one patient telling me that although I was not treating him for cold prevention, he did not have any common cold symptoms for over a year.
Chinese Herbs to the Rescue
Herbs such as Angelica root/Bai Zhi often eliminate symptoms, especially with blocked-up nasal passages. Andrographis, or Chuan Xin Lian,, is another frequently used herb because it reduces the severity of cold symptoms while strengthening the immune system. Forsythia fruit, or Lian Qiao, is used frequently to treat symptoms such as sore throat and fever. Each of these herbs has specific properties that make them effective in preventing and treating colds.
Essential Oils Therapy to the Rescue
Essential oils contain antibacterial and antiviral constituents and are more versatile than herbs. They are efficient when diffused, applied to the skin, used as chest rubs, and with warm compresses. The therapeutic benefits of Essential Oils are experienced during an Acupuncture session, often placed on an acupressure point, massaged along a meridian, or placed around the needle. Another standard method if someone has symptoms of the common cold is to massage the lung meridian with a blend of oils, put a drop of oil on a cotton ball, and leave it on their chest so they can obtain the aromatherapeutic benefit of relief. Essential oils for common cold symptoms are Eucalyptus radiata, Eucalyptus globulus, Peppermint, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Basil, and even the beloved Lavender essential oil. Eucalyptus oils and Peppermint act as natural decongestants and aid in alleviating symptoms of the common cold, known in TCM as Releasing the Exteriors. Releasing the Exterior is a TCM concept that refers to expelling pathogens from the body's surface, thereby relieving common cold symptoms. Rosemary and Tea Tree are support for strengthening the lung qi.
More Wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine
There are other recommendations, such as covering the back of the neck, which is very beneficial. The neck's nape is the entry point for many external invasions caused by wind; the scarf will block the wind. Therefore, keeping this area covered, especially when it is windy, may help keep a person from getting sick. Also, as the weather gets colder, eating more warm and cooked foods, such as soups, stews, and steamed vegetables, is best to support the body's energy and immune system.
Last but not least is exercise. It is necessary to move to keep the energy flowing throughout the day. This is where incorporating a daily practice of tai chi or qi gong is helpful. Both tai chi and qi gong are easy to learn and have low impact. Tai chi is even being used around the globe in senior homes to help the residents regain balance and keep them mentally and physically healthy.
Consider adding Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to your holistic healthcare toolbox when preventing and treating colds with Marc J. Gian, a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and aromatherapist with over 25 years of experience.
Contact Marc today to start feeling better tomorrow. Experience the value of taking a proactive approach towards your health and well-being, By incorporating TCM into your health regimen, you can feel more in control and empowered in your journey to prevent and treat the common cold.