According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, chronic respiratory diseases were the third leading cause of death in 2019. Many environmental factors, such as smog, wildfire smoke, and smoking, cause respiratory illnesses and discomfort, notably in young adults.
Protecting lung health is crucial for longevity and overall wellness. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a natural and effective approach. TCM views the lungs not only as vital organs responsible for respiration but also as a symbol of emotional and spiritual balance. By incorporating TCM remedies, one can improve their lung health and prevent respiratory diseases.
Understanding Lung Health in TCM
In TCM, the lungs are associated with the element metal, which are responsible for governing Qi, and regulating breath. The lungs inhale Qi from the outside environment and exhale waste Qi to keep the body in balance. Respiratory illnesses are generally associated with weak Wei Qi.
The lungs are also connected to emotions, and it’s believed that grief and sadness affect lung function. Immense grief can consume Qi and disrupt the lung’s proper function.
Experienced TCM practitioners use techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion to restore lung balance and promote better health and more balanced emotions.
TCM Remedies and Prevention for Better Lung Health
TCM remedies can help prevent and ease respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis by addressing underlying imbalances. By strengthening lung function and boosting immunity, TCM approaches respiratory health in a holistic way.
There are several methods that TCM practitioners can try to help their patients improve and protect their lung health.
Herbal Formulas
TCM herbal medicine plays a vital role in preventing respiratory diseases. The formulas practitioners choose are tailored to individual patterns and needs, providing a targeted approach to prevention.
There are many different formulas to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Combination) relieves cough, calms wheezing, and harmonizes lung function. Qing Fei Tang (Platycodon & Fritillaria Combination) is another helpful formula for coughs and phlegm stuck in the lungs. Ren Shen Ge Jie San (Ginseng & Gecko Combination) tonifies lung qi, nourishes lung yin, and promotes lung health, making it a viable option for both preventing and soothing lung ailments.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a key component of TCM prevention strategies for respiratory diseases. When used correctly, it can increase blood flow and expand airways to allow for the unobstructed flow of Qi.
Specific points such as LU-7 (Lieque), LU-9 (Taiyuan), and DU-14 (Dazhui) are used to regulate lung function, calm the mind, and boost immunity. By stimulating these points, practitioners can restore balance to their patients and improve their lung health.
Lifestyle Advice
TCM practitioners offer personalized lifestyle advice to support lung health and prevent respiratory diseases. While this advice doesn’t necessarily replace the benefits of herbal formulas and acupuncture, it can still help patients improve and protect their lung health day-to-day.
One lifestyle change that will improve lung health is to avoid phlegm-inducing foods, such as dairy and sugar. Eating lung-nourishing foods, such as pears, ginger, and garlic, can also be beneficial. Stress management techniques such as meditation and deep breathing are also encouraged.
Environmental Awareness
TCM practitioners emphasize the importance of environmental awareness in preventing respiratory diseases. Avoiding environmental toxins and allergens such as air pollution, tobacco smoke, and strong chemicals is crucial. By minimizing exposure to harmful substances, individuals can reduce their risk of respiratory issues.
Experienced practitioners also consider the seasons when prescribing preventative treatments or healing remedies. In winter, immunity is boosted, and the lungs are warmed. In spring, phlegm is cleared, and lung Qi is nourished. In summer, heat is cleared, and the lungs are protected. In autumn, lung Yin is nourished, and the mind is calmed. These seasonal shifts make a difference in how certain conditions should be approached.
Case Studies and Research
The use of TCM to improve lung health is widely supported by accredited case studies. For example, a study available in the National Library of Medicine shows that acupuncture has been an effective accessory treatment for patients with stable COPD. Another study published by Frontiers of Pharmacology explains that TCM methods, due to their “holism” often provide more benefits for respiratory illnesses than Western medicine, which often isolates individual symptoms, can provide on its own. Studies even suggest that TCM herbal supplements, when used in combination with chemotherapy, can ease symptoms and progression of lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Can Be Beneficial for Lung Health
Incorporating TCM remedies into one’s daily routine can improve lung health and prevent respiratory diseases. Understanding the holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine approach to lung health and utilizing herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other techniques can help people breathe easier and lead an overall healthier life.
It’s important to consult with a licensed TCM practitioner when seeking out treatment options for the best results. Whether one is trying to heal a lung ailment or protect and strengthen their lungs for a healthy future, it all starts with an excellent practitioner and high-quality herbal formulas. KPC uses strict quality control guidelines to produce the highest-quality herbal formulas around to help customers achieve balance and wellness.
*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
