Symptom family: Respiratory Disorders and Symptoms
Sub-symptom(s): Childhood Asthma Bronchial Asthma Chronic Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. It is marked by recurring episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning. Triggers for asthma attacks can include allergens, respiratory infections, physical activity, cold air, and stress. Effective management of asthma involves identifying and avoiding triggers, as well as using medications to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), asthma is seen as a manifestation of underlying patterns of disharmony within the body. TCM practitioners believe that imbalances in Qi, Phlegm accumulation, and Deficiencies in organ functions contribute to the development of asthma symptoms.
Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on treating the symptoms, TCM aims to address the root causes by identifying the specific pattern of disharmony. This holistic approach ensures that treatment is tailored to the individual, leading to more effective management of the condition.
One common TCM pattern associated with asthma is Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs. This pattern is characterized by symptoms such as coughing, pale face, sputum, a stifling sensation in the chest, shortness of breath, discomfort when lying down, wheezing, and nausea. It often results from a combination of external factors, such as exposure to cold or damp environments, and internal imbalances that lead to the accumulation of phlegm in the lungs.
Another relevant pattern is Kidney Yang Deficiency, marked by symptoms like lower back pain, dizziness, tinnitus, weak and cold knees, lower back coldness, chills, weak legs, and a bright pale face. This pattern can develop due to chronic respiratory issues, overexertion, or aging, which weaken the kidneys' ability to grasp and descend qi effectively. Understanding these patterns helps in tailoring treatments that address the root causes of asthma in TCM.
Explore below more details about what might cause Asthma according to TCM.
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Common Symptoms: Coughing Stifling Sensation In The Chest Wheezing Dizziness Sputum Shortness Of Breath Feeling Of Heaviness Profuse White Sputum
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Chest distension... see more | Er Chen Tang |
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm | Asthma, Coughing, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum... see more | Xiao Qing Long Tang | Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang |
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Er Chen Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more
Common Symptoms: Chills Coughing Edema Of The Lower Extremities Lower Back Pain Dizziness Tinnitus Weak And Cold Knees Lower Back Coldness
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney Yang Deficiency | Asthma, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more | Ba Wei Di Huang Wan |
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing | Asthma, Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Coughing... see more | Wu Ling San | Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan |
Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more
Common Symptoms: Coughing Nausea Vomit Headaches Dizziness Loss Of Consciousness Vomiting Blood Hiccups
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Rebellious Lung Qi | Asthma, Coughing, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches, Loss of consciousness | Jin Fei Cao San | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang |
Rebellious Qi | Asthma, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea, Vomit, Coughing | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Si Ni San |
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Common Symptoms: Coughing Shortness Of Breath Pale Face Sputum Stifling Sensation In The Chest Discomfort When Lying Down Wheezing Nausea
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Chest distension... see more | Er Chen Tang |
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing | Asthma, Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Coughing... see more | Wu Ling San | Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan |
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Dizziness Thirst Bitter Taste In The Mouth Constipation Hypochondriac Pain And Discomfort Cough With Yellow Or Blood Tinged Sputum Headaches
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Asthma, Shortness of breath, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Er Chen Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Coughing Shortness Of Breath Sputum Stifling Sensation In The Chest Wheezing Nausea Chest Distension
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Chest distension... see more | Er Chen Tang |
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Asthma, Shortness of breath, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs | Asthma, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more | Er Chen Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin |
Rebellious Lung Qi | Asthma, Coughing, Nausea, Vomit, Dizziness, Headaches, Loss of consciousness | Jin Fei Cao San | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Dizziness Tinnitus Chills Cold Extremities Coughing Edema Of The Lower Extremities Weak And Cold Knees
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Kidney Yang Deficiency | Asthma, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more | Ba Wei Di Huang Wan |
Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing | Asthma, Edema of the lower extremities, Cold sensation in legs and back, Abdominal distention, Lumbar pain, Chills, Scanty clear urination, Palpitations, Shortness of breath, Cold hands, White and watery sputum, Coughing... see more | Wu Ling San | Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan |
Kidneys failing to receive Qi | Asthma, Exertional dyspnea, Rapid breath, Weak respiratory, Difficulty breathing in, Chronic coughing, Spontaneous sweat, Cold extremities, Facial edema, Emaciation, Low energy, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Clear urination... see more | You Gui Wan | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs | Asthma, Shortness of breath, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang |
TCM treatment for asthma involves using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient’s underlying pattern. For Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, a commonly recommended formula is Er Chen Tang. This formula includes Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), which helps dry dampness and transform phlegm, making it easier to breathe.
For Kidney Yang Deficiency, Ba Wei Di Huang Wan is often used. This formula contains Prepared rehmannia (Shu Di Huang), which helps nourish yin and tonify the kidneys. The choice of formula depends on the specific pattern diagnosed, highlighting the personalized nature of TCM treatments.
Additional formulas for asthma include Xiao Qing Long Tang for Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm, and Wu Ling San for Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing. These formulas use herbs like Ephedra (Ma Huang) and Water plantain (Ze Xie) to address specific imbalances and support respiratory health. Through careful diagnosis and tailored treatments, TCM offers a comprehensive approach to managing asthma and improving overall well-being.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address asthma, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause asthma, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Xiao Qing Long Tang | Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm |
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm |
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause asthma, such as Kidney Yang Deficiency
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
Wu Ling San | Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing |
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing |
Suitable for Qi Rebellion patterns that may cause asthma, such as Rebellious Lung Qi or Rebellious Qi
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Rebellious Lung Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Jin Fei Cao San | Rebellious Lung Qi |
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Rebellious Qi |
Si Ni San | Rebellious Qi |
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause asthma, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs |
Wu Ling San | Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing |
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing |
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause asthma, such as Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Er Chen Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs |
Ke Xie Fang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs |
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi or Rebellious Lung Qi.
One such formula is Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang, with perilla seeds as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Kidneys failing to receive Qi, Rebellious Lung Qi, Rebellious Qi |
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Rebellious Qi |
Ding Chuan Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Rebellious Lung Qi.
One such formula is Jin Fei Cao San, with inula flower as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Jin Fei Cao San | Rebellious Lung Qi |
Xiao Qing Long Tang | Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm |
Gui Zhi Tang | Not applicable |
Ma Huang Tang | Not applicable |
Da Qing Long Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Ren Shen Ge Jie San, with tokay geckos as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Kidneys failing to receive Qi, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Bu Fei Tang | Not applicable |
Yu Ping Feng San | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs or Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Er Chen Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing.
One such formula is Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing |
You Gui Wan | Kidneys failing to receive Qi |
Shen Qi Wan | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Liver Fire insulting the Lungs.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Liver Fire insulting the Lungs |
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan, with arisaema with bile as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang | Not applicable |
Gun Tan Wan | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Kidney Yang Deficiency.
One such formula is Ba Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
Bai He Gu Jin Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm.
One such formula is Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang, with dried ginger as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm |
San Zi Yang Qin Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Qing Xin Li Ge Tang, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs |
Wei Jing Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Rebellious Qi.
One such formula is Chai Hu Shu Gan San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Rebellious Qi |
Si Mo Tang | Not applicable |
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Kidney Yang Deficiency with Water overflowing.
One such formula is Wu Ling San, with water plantain as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Liver Fire insulting the Lungs.
One such formula is Ke Xie Fang, with natural indigo as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs.
One such formula is Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin, with loquat leaves as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some asthma-causing patterns like Rebellious Qi.
One such formula is Si Ni San, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas if it arises from an excess of internal heat, needing actions that clear heat and reduce its intensity.
One such formula is Da Cheng Qi Tang, with rhubarb as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas if it is due to lung deficiency, leading to chronic cough or breathing difficulties.
One such formula is Jiu Xian San, with poppy capsule as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by formulas that clear Heat and expel dampness if it results from heat combined with damp conditions in the body.
One such formula is Lian Po Yin, with goldthread rhizome as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas if it is due to cold-dampness obstructing the body's functions, requiring warming and damp-transforming actions.
One such formula is Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, with poria-cocos mushroom as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas when it is due to a deficiency in Yin leading to dryness, calling for nourishing Yin and moistening actions.
One such formula is Mai Men Dong Tang, with dwarf lilyturf root as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas when caused by dryness that impairs the body's moisture balance, necessitating herbs that moisten and alleviate dryness.
One such formula is Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang, with mulberry leaves as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas when it is linked to phlegm accumulation, affecting respiratory and other body functions.
One such formula is Di Tan Tang, with arisaema as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by formulas that clear Exterior disorders with Interior deficiency if it arises from an external pathogen attacking a body with underlying weakness.
One such formula is Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang, with ephedra as a key herb.
Asthma can be treated by these formulas in cases of imbalances in the lesser Yang (Shao Yang) phase, which often involve alternating hot and cold sensations.
One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
In TCM, specific acupoints are used to treat asthma by addressing the underlying disharmony. Fenglong (ST-40) on the Stomach Channel is one such point, located midway between Dubi (ST-35) and Jiexi (ST-41). It helps resolve Dampness and Phlegm, calm the Mind, and subdue Rebellious Qi.
Another important acupoint is Pohu (BL-42) on the Bladder Channel, located 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3). This point benefits the corporeal soul, tonifies Lung Qi, and subdues Rebellious Lung Qi. Shenshu (BL-23) on the Bladder Channel, found 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebra (L2), tonifies Kidney Yang and nourishes Kidney Yin. These acupoints, when used in combination, help to address the root causes of asthma in TCM.
Explore below some acupoints used to address asthma, organized by meridian.
About 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, in the supraclavicular fossa, superior to the midpoint of the clavicle.
About 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, below the midpoint of the clavicle.
6 cun below Dubi ST-35, on finger-breadth from the anterior crest of the tibia.
Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.
3 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
In the 5th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
In the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 6th thoracic vertebra (T6).
On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 3th thoracic vertebra (T3).
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).
3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3).
0.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (C7).
Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.
On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 1st intercostal space.
1 cun anterior to Yuanye GB-22, approximately level with the nipple.