Recurrent Coldsaccording to TCM

What is Recurrent Colds?

Recurrent colds, a term that encapsulates the frequent onset of the common cold, are characterized by a pattern of repeated episodes of upper respiratory infections. These can include symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and nasal congestion.

Unlike isolated incidents of colds, recurrent colds suggest an underlying vulnerability in the body's defensive mechanisms, making an individual more susceptible to pathogens.

How does TCM View Recurrent Colds?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets recurrent colds as indicative of a deeper imbalance within the body's Qi, or vital energy. TCM proposes that a Deficiency in protective Qi may lead to a weakened immune response, rendering an individual prone to frequent colds. The aim of treatment in TCM is not just to address the symptoms but to identify and correct the root cause of the Qi deficiency.

Root Causes of Recurrent Colds in TCM

From the perspective of TCM, recurrent colds are commonly linked to a Deficiency in protective Qi, which serves as the first line of defense against external pathogens. This Deficiency may be caused by an imbalance in lifestyle, improper diet, overexertion, or chronic stress.

TCM posits that when protective Qi is weak, pathogenic factors such as Wind and Cold find it easier to invade the body, leading to repeated cold symptoms. Thus, TCM focuses on enhancing the body's Qi to prevent the frequency of colds.

Explore below more details about what might cause Recurrent colds according to TCM.

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Recurrent Colds

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Protective Qi Deficiency	Recurrent colds, Spontaneous sweat, Bright pale face, Pale tongue	Yu Ping Feng San

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Recurrent Colds

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Protective Qi Deficiency	Recurrent colds, Spontaneous sweat, Bright pale face, Pale tongue	Yu Ping Feng San

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Recurrent Colds

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Protective Qi Deficiency	Recurrent colds, Spontaneous sweat, Bright pale face, Pale tongue	Yu Ping Feng San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Recurrent Colds

To combat recurrent colds, TCM often prescribes formulas that bolster the body's Qi. Yu Ping Feng San, a classic formula containing Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), is commonly used for its Qi tonifying properties, particularly to strengthen Protective Qi.

Such treatments aim to fortify the body's resistance to external pathogens, thereby reducing the occurrence of colds. The selection of specific herbs and formulas is tailored to the individual's constitution and the nature of their Qi Deficiency.

See more details below about Yu Ping Feng San, a herbal formula used to address recurrent colds.

Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Yu Ping Feng San

Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause recurrent colds, such as Protective Qi Deficiency

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TCM Herbs for Recurrent Colds

See more details below about Milkvetch Roots (Huang Qi), a herb used to address recurrent colds.