Asthma according to Chinese Medicine

Chronic asthma and Bronchial asthma redirect here

The information provided here is not a replacement for a doctor. You shouldn't use it for the purpose of self-diagnosing or self-medicating but rather so you can have a more informed discussion with a professional TCM practitioner.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways in which many cells and cellular elements play a role. It is characterised by recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning.

What causes asthma according to TCM?

There are 22 patterns of disharmony in our database that are associated with asthma. TCM sees our body (and mind) as a holistic system in which health issues stem from imbalances, known as "patterns of disharmony". These patterns can manifest in a wide range of symptoms and illnesses, such as asthma here.

Most of the patterns associated with asthma are "Full" (also called "Excess") in nature. This means that according to TCM asthma is more likely to be an acute condition, caused by an excess of pathological factors or substances that overwhelm the body's defensive capabilities.

In this case, the most common of these excesses is Phlegm, behind 6 patterns associated with asthma. Other excesses or pathogenic factors which might contribute to asthma include "Phlegm-Fluids" and "Heat".

For more details on the underlying causes and patterns behind asthma, refer to this comprehensive page on the subject.

Herbal formulas used in TCM for asthma

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Individual herbs used in TCM for asthma

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Acupuncture and acupressure points for asthma

Section coming soon...

TCM dietary and lifestyle recommendations that might help with asthma

Section coming soon...