Frequent Upper Respiratory Infectionsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Parent symptom: Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Did you mean? Frequent Colds Or Flu
What is Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections?
Frequent upper respiratory infections (URIs) refer to the recurrent occurrence of infections in the upper part of the respiratory system, which includes the nose, throat, and bronchi. These infections are characterized by symptoms like coughing, sneezing, sore throat, nasal congestion, and fever.
People with frequent URIs often experience these symptoms several times a year, indicating a possible underlying vulnerability to respiratory ailments. These repeated infections can vary in severity and duration, impacting the quality of life and overall health.
TCM Perspective on Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views frequent upper respiratory infections as a sign of underlying imbalances in the body's natural energy systems. Unlike Western medicine, which typically focuses on treating the symptoms of each infection as it occurs, TCM seeks to understand and address the root causes of this susceptibility.
The recurrent nature of these infections suggests disharmony in the body's Qi (vital energy), defensive capabilities against external pathogens, and possible weaknesses in the Lung and Spleen systems. TCM treatments aim to strengthen the body's natural defenses and correct imbalances to reduce the frequency of these infections.
Causes of Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections According to TCM
TCM identifies several key patterns contributing to frequent URIs. One common cause is the Deficiency of Wei Qi, the protective energy layer that shields the body from external pathogens. A weakness in Defensive Qi makes individuals more susceptible to repeated infections.
Another cause is an imbalance in the Lung Qi, which is responsible for respiratory health. When Lung Qi is Deficient or obstructed, it can lead to a higher frequency of respiratory infections.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections
To address frequent URIs, TCM recommends a variety of formulas tailored to the specific underlying imbalances. Formulas like Wu Ji San, containing Ephedra (Ma Huang), are used to combat Interior Cold and Wind-Cold patterns, warming the Interior, and releasing the Exterior.
For cases involving Defensive Qi Deficiency (Wei Qi), Yu Ping Feng San, with Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi) as a key ingredient, is often prescribed to strengthen the body's Defensive Qi and enhance its resistance to external pathogens. These formulas aim to restore balance and strengthen the body's natural defenses, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of upper respiratory infections.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address frequent upper respiratory infections, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
- Formulas that tonify qi
Formulas that Release the Exterior and Warm the Interior
Frequent upper respiratory infections can be treated by these formulas when it stems from external cold invasion affecting the body, requiring treatments that expel cold and warm the interior.
Formulas that tonify Qi
Frequent upper respiratory infections can be treated by these formulas if it results from Qi deficiency, necessitating treatments that boost the body's vital energy.
One such formula is Yu Ping Feng San, with milkvetch root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address frequent upper respiratory infections, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Frequent upper respiratory infections can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Ephedra (Ma Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for frequent upper respiratory infections, like Wu Ji San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior" recommended for frequent upper respiratory infections
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ephedra (Ma Huang) | Wu Ji San |
| Angelica Roots (Bai Zhi) | Wu Ji San |
Herbs that drain Dampness
Frequent upper respiratory infections can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for frequent upper respiratory infections, like Wu Ji San.
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Frequent upper respiratory infections 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 Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for frequent upper respiratory infections, like Yu Ping Feng San.