Chronic Asthmaaccording to TCM

What is chronic asthma?

Chronic asthma is a persistent, long-term respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to recurring episodes of breathing difficulties. Unlike acute asthma attacks, which are intermittent, chronic asthma involves ongoing symptoms that may vary in intensity but never fully resolve. Individuals with chronic asthma experience frequent bouts of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning.

These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Chronic asthma requires continuous management, including regular use of medications to control inflammation and prevent exacerbations. Environmental factors, allergens, and respiratory infections can trigger flare-ups, necessitating a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes both long-term control and quick-relief medications.

How does TCM view chronic asthma?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chronic asthma through the lens of pattern diagnosis, a fundamental concept that distinguishes it from Western medical approaches. In TCM, chronic asthma is seen as a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body's energy systems, particularly involving the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney.

This holistic view considers not just the respiratory symptoms, but how they relate to overall bodily functions, energy flow, and organ interactions. Identifying the correct pattern is crucial because it guides the entire treatment strategy. For chronic asthma, patterns might involve Phlegm accumulation, Qi Deficiency, or Kidney Yang Deficiency. By addressing these root patterns, TCM aims to restore balance and improve respiratory function more comprehensively than treating the symptoms in isolation.

Causes of chronic asthma according to TCM

In the TCM paradigm, chronic asthma can arise from various patterns of disharmony within the body. One significant pattern associated with chronic asthma is Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs. This condition manifests not only in respiratory symptoms but also in signs of cold, such as aversion to cold and clear, thin mucus. TCM practitioners view this pattern as a result of Yang Deficiency leading to an accumulation of Cold and Phlegm in the Lungs, obstructing the airways and impeding the normal flow of Qi.

Another important pattern in TCM's understanding of chronic asthma is Lung and Spleen Qi Deficiency. This pattern is characterized by persistent wheezing, fatigue, and weak immunity. TCM sees this as a fundamental weakness in the body's ability to produce and distribute Qi, leading to insufficient energy to support proper Lung function and clear Phlegm. These patterns reflect TCM's nuanced approach to understanding the root causes of chronic asthma, emphasizing the interconnectedness of symptoms and their underlying energetic imbalances.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Chronic Asthma

The treatment of chronic asthma in TCM involves carefully selected herbal formulas tailored to address the specific pattern of disharmony identified in each patient. For patterns involving Cold-Phlegm in the Lungs, a commonly recommended formula is Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, which belongs to the category of formulas that warm and transform Phlegm-Cold. This formula often includes Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang) as a key herb, known for its ability to warm the Lungs and transform Cold-Phlegm. The formula aims to address the root imbalance by warming the Lungs, dispersing Cold, and transforming Phlegm, thereby alleviating the chronic symptoms of asthma.

It's important to note that TCM treatment is highly individualized, and the choice of formula may vary based on the patient's specific presentation and overall constitution. Other formulas might be employed for different patterns, such as those focusing on tonifying Qi or nourishing Kidney Yang, depending on the diagnosed pattern of disharmony.

See more details below about Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, a herbal formula used to address chronic asthma.

TCM Herbs for Chronic Asthma

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address chronic asthma, organized by herb category.