ColD & Flu - How TCM Can Help

written by Dr Hao Dong

As we embrace the arrival of winter in Melbourne, the cold weather not only brings a chill to the air but also presents challenges for our health. Among the common concerns during this season are colds and the flu, which seem to spread rapidly due to the drop in temperature and increased humidity. Today, we'd like to share how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help you combat these winter ailments, boost your immunity, and maintain your health throughout the colder months.

🌬️ Common Winter Ailments: Colds and Flu

As the temperature drops and the weather becomes damp, the chances of catching a cold or the flu increase. These illnesses often spread quickly in the winter months and are accompanied by symptoms like nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, headache, and fever. Both the common cold and influenza can be particularly troublesome when the immune system is weakened by the cold.

🍂 The Advantages of TCM in Treating Colds and the Flu

In TCM, colds and flu are believed to be caused by external pathogens (such as wind, cold, and heat) invading the body, disrupting the balance of our internal energy (Qi). TCM treatments focus on restoring balance by addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of these illnesses. Here's how TCM can be beneficial:

1. Acupuncture
   Acupuncture is effective in stimulating specific acupuncture points along the body’s meridians, helping to enhance blood circulation, boost the immune system, and expel pathogens. For colds and flu, acupuncture points such as Fengchi, Hegu, and Baihui can relieve common symptoms like headaches, nasal congestion, and fever, while also strengthening your body's natural healing abilities.

2. Herbal Medicine
   TCM herbs are a key treatment for colds and flu. Depending on the symptoms and the type of cold (wind-cold, wind-heat, dampness, etc.), your TCM practitioner may prescribe formulas like Xiao Chai Hu Tang, Gui Zhi Tang, or Yin Qiao Jie Du Wan. These herbs can help to release the exterior, clear heat, expel cold, and restore balance to the body’s energy, offering both symptomatic relief and long-term recovery.

3. Cupping and Moxibustion
   Cupping and moxibustion are traditional TCM therapies that can be highly effective for treating colds and flu. Cupping helps to relieve muscle aches, congestion, and phlegm accumulation, while moxibustion—burning moxa (a type of herb) near specific acupoints—helps to warm the body, expel cold, and improve circulation, particularly useful for cold-induced symptoms.

4. Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments
   In TCM, prevention is just as important as treatment. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is key to avoiding illness, especially in winter. We recommend maintaining regular sleep patterns, avoiding late nights, and consuming foods that support the body’s immune system. Warm, nourishing foods like ginger, garlic, red dates, and goji berries are excellent choices to support your health in winter.

🍃 Prevention is Key

In addition to treating cold and flu symptoms, TCM places a strong emphasis on prevention. Winter is the best time to focus on strengthening your lungs and kidney Qi, which helps to boost your immune system and reduce the likelihood of getting sick. Regular TCM treatments, along with proper self-care, can significantly improve your body's resilience during the colder months.

To book in an appointment with our Chinese Medicine Practitioners click here.