Acute Infectious Diseasesaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Infectious Diseases
What is Acute Infectious Diseases?
Acute infectious diseases represent a group of illnesses characterized by rapid onset and a relatively short course. These conditions are typically caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
They can manifest in various forms, ranging from common colds and influenza to more severe illnesses like pneumonia or meningitis. Acute infectious diseases often present with symptoms like fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and respiratory issues, necessitating prompt medical attention.
How Does TCM View Acute Infectious Diseases?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acute infectious diseases are understood as imbalances caused by external pathogenic factors. TCM practitioners view these illnesses through the lens of patterns of disharmony, such as Heat, Dampness, or Wind, invading the body.
The focus is on identifying and treating the underlying pattern, rather than just alleviating symptoms. This holistic approach emphasizes the importance of restoring balance and harmony to the body's Qi (vital energy) and Yin-Yang dynamics.
Causes of Acute Infectious Diseases According to TCM
TCM attributes acute infectious diseases to the invasion of external pathogenic factors disrupting the body's equilibrium. Two common patterns identified in such conditions are the invasion of Summer-Heat and Yin Deficiency. Summer-Heat, a pattern associated with the hot summer months, manifests as fever, thirst, and irritability.
Yin Deficiency, on the other hand, reflects a deeper, chronic imbalance, often presenting with dryness, restlessness, and a sensation of heat. Recognizing these patterns allows TCM practitioners to tailor treatments that address both the symptoms and their root causes.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Acute Infectious Diseases
To combat acute infectious diseases, TCM prescribes specific formulas and herbs based on the identified patterns. For conditions marked by Summer-Heat, formulas like Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang, featuring American ginseng (Xi Yang Shen), a Bitter, Sweet, and Cool herb, are used. This formula aims to alleviate the Heat while simultaneously nourishing the body's Qi.
In cases of Yin Deficiency, Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang, with Ningpo Figwort Roots (Xuan Shen) as the key herb, is preferred. This formula addresses the underlying Yin Deficiency while also tackling the acute symptoms. Through such tailored treatments, TCM seeks to restore the body's natural balance and promote healing.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address acute infectious diseases, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and augment qi
- Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify
Formulas that dispel Summer-Heat and augment Qi
Acute infectious diseases can be treated by these formulas when there's a combination of weakened vital energy and the effects of summer heat, requiring both cooling and energy boosting.
One such formula is Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang, with american ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify
Acute infectious diseases can be treated by these formulas if it results from a combination of deficiency and excess conditions, needing both tonification and purging actions.
One such formula is Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang, with ningpo figwort root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Acute Infectious Diseases
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address acute infectious diseases, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Herbs that cool the blood
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Acute infectious diseases can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is American Ginseng (Xi Yang Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for acute infectious diseases, like Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang.
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Acute infectious diseases can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Watermelons (Xi Gua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for acute infectious diseases, like Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Acute infectious diseases can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Ningpo Figwort Roots (Xuan Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for acute infectious diseases, like Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang.