Frequent Colds Or Flu in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different frequent colds or flu patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Frequent colds or flu, a common health concern, typically manifest as recurrent infections of the respiratory tract. While a single episode of a cold or flu is not unusual, frequent occurrences can indicate underlying health issues.
This condition encompasses a range of symptoms, including a propensity to catch colds, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, and recurring bouts of cold or flu-like symptoms. These repeated episodes can be draining and affect one's overall health and well-being.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches frequent colds or flu from a holistic perspective, viewing them as a reflection of imbalances within the body's systems. TCM posits that these recurring illnesses stem from an underlying disharmony, often related to deficiencies in vital energy, or Qi.
The focus is on identifying and treating the specific pattern of disharmony causing the symptoms, whether it be a deficiency in Qi, an imbalance of Yin and Yang, or an invasion of external pathogenic factors.
TCM Patterns for Frequent Colds Or Flu
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause frequent colds or flu
Lung Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu)
Pale or normal color tongue
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu)
Pale
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu), Weak (Ruo)
Pale tongue
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu)
Pale
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Lung Yang Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Slow (Chi), Slowed-down (Huan), Wiry (Xian)
Swollen pale tongue with slippery white coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Frequent Colds Or Flu
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address frequent colds or flu