The Common Cold and Chinese Herbology

Envision an ancient human with the common cold: huddled in firs, no disposable tissues, shivering as they rub two sticks together to make a fire, sniffling their way out of the last ice age. Although we have come a long way in terms of the comforts we are afforded when suffering from a cold or flu (Aloe infused tissue, central heating, a pharmacy aisle full of over the counter palliatives), we still suffer a great deal.

Fortunately, over thousands of years of observing cold and flu, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has come up with an impressive defense against the onslaught of cold and flu season in the form of a sophisticated collection and combination of herbs. It is a little known benefit of Chinese Herbology that it alleviates cold and flu symptoms. Even though most people have heard of Echinacea, it is not until recently that formulas like “Yin Chao San” have been known or accessible.

Though there are about 10 widely used Chinese herbal formulas for cold and flu, there are over 25 available. Each of these formulas combines anywhere from 2 to even 20 single herbs. Each herb in the formula has a role in bringing the body back into balance. In the old days these herbs had to be combined in a pot of boiling water, cooked, decocted, and consumed within a couple of days (again, envision some ancient humans, now with their fire started heating a pot of water). Though this is still considered the most potent way to ingest Chinese herbal medicine, many of these formulas are now available in the United States in pill or granulate form.

All of these formulas are given based on very specific symptoms. Many are divided along the existence or absence of fever, cough, chills, sweats, sore throat, neck pain, and the degree to which these symptoms affect the sufferer. There are other more esoteric indications that may indicate the use of one formula over another such as dry hot nasal passages, heaviness of the head, and a bitter taste in the mouth. Many formulas are specific to the color of sputum that one might eject while coughing or sneezing. Some are for the beginning, middle, or tail end of a cold or flu. It is not one-size-fits-all or one for daytime and one for nighttime. Chinese Herbology is geared specifically to an individual and not an illness. The prescription of an herbal formula should be done by a qualified practitioner of TCM, such as a licensed acupuncturist.

Of course, it is the best policy to avoid getting sick in the first place. Getting plenty of rest, exercising consistently, avoiding stress, and eating a balanced diet are key to maintaining health. Acupuncture and herbal medicine also help to boost the immune system and keep the body running smoothly to prevent illness in the first place.

Coast your way through cold and flu season by contacting your local licensed acupuncturist and asking them about the amazing art of Chinese herbology.