Acute Bronchitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different acute bronchitis patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. It is characterized by a persistent cough, production of mucus (sputum), and sometimes difficulty breathing. The condition is typically caused by viral infections, similar to those that cause colds and flu, but can also result from bacterial infections or exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, dust, or pollutants. Symptoms usually last for a few days to weeks, but the cough may linger for several weeks even after the infection has resolved.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acute bronchitis is seen as a manifestation of underlying patterns of disharmony within the body. TCM practitioners believe that various factors, such as imbalances in Qi, the presence of Phlegm, and external pathogens like Wind and Cold, can contribute to the development of bronchitis.
Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on treating the infection and symptoms, TCM aims to identify and address the root cause of these imbalances to restore harmony and promote overall health.
TCM Patterns for Acute Bronchitis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause acute bronchitis
Lung Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal or red color with no coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Stomach Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal color with rootless coating or without coating in the center
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Acute Bronchitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address acute bronchitis