Differentiate Influenza vs. Cold | Benefits of TCM Treatments for Influenza
Difference between Influenza and Common Cold
TCM's Perspective on Treating Influenza
How TCM Treat Influenza
- Traditional Chinese medicine treatment
Chinese medicine often uses herbs with effects such as clearing heat, detoxifying, dispelling wind & cold, promoting blood circulation, and resolving stasis. TCM practitioner may formulate personalized herbal decoctions based on individual symptoms. - Acupuncture Therapy
Acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and blood in the body, enhance immunity, and have a certain effect on relieving cold symptoms. - Moxibustion therapy
Moxibustion is believed to warm meridians, dispel cold, and help restore balance in the body.
Things to take note
- Maintaining good respiratory hygiene habits
Cover the mouth and nose with the upper arm, tissue, or towel when coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing and avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. It is crucial to rest at home and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of respiratory infections occur. - Avoiding blind or inappropriate use of antibacterial drugs
Antibiotics should only be used when there are indications of bacterial pneumonia, otitis media, sinusitis, etc. - Post-illness precautions
Avoid alcohol, refrain from consuming greasy foods, and take measures to prevent the recurrence of the disease.
Preventive Measures
- Regulation of daily routines and diet
Maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid excessive fatigue, and consume a balanced and moderate diet. Food should be kept mild, avoiding excessive intake of chilled or hot and spicy foods. Key measures include rest, immune system enhancement, frequent handwashing, and proper ventilation. - Strengthening the constitution
Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes improving resistance by adjusting the constitution, using methods such as medicinal cuisines, moderate exercise, acupuncture, etc. - Avoiding invasion by dampness
Traditional Chinese Medicine considers dampness as an external pathogenic factor contributing to colds. Therefore, it is essential to avoid the influence of cold and high-humidity environments and be mindful of keeping the body dry.
Benefits of TCM Treatments for Influenza
- Faster, more stable, and longer-lasting fever reduction: This is a significant characteristic of TCM treatment for influenza. Ancient formulas such as Honeysuckle & Forsythia Formula (Yinqiao San), Mahuang Shigan soup, Minor Buplereum Decoction (Xiaochaihu Tang), Dayuan drink, and other well-established TCM prescriptions developed by experienced practitioners have shown excellent therapeutic effects. Current evidence is increasingly robust in supporting these treatments. Therefore, TCM has a significant advantage in reducing fever.
- Effective relief of symptoms such as sore throat and general body pain: TCM has proven effective in alleviating symptoms like throat pain and overall body pain. This demonstrates the ability of TCM to address specific symptoms and syndromes. TCM recognizes that throat pain and joint pain may be related to either wind-cold or wind-heat conditions, showcasing the advantages of syndrome-oriented and multi-targeted treatments.
- Reduced occurrence of cough symptoms after the common cold: Early use of traditional Chinese medicine reduces the chances and severity of cough symptoms.
- Effective in treating severe and critical cases: Combined treatment with both traditional Chinese and Western medicine has shown positive outcomes in reducing the use of antibiotics, minimizing the need for ventilators, and decreasing mortality rates.
Recommendations - Kontea Herbal Tea
Wind Relief Tea
Effects: Eliminating heat, improves the digestive system, and helps with cough and headaches from excessive heat, joint pain and more.
Suitable for:Cold, runny nose, sore and painful joints, fever, and those who are afraid of the cold.
Immunity Booster Tea
Effects: Replenish Qi deficiency, consolidate the deficiency, and enhance the body's immune function.
Suitable for:It’s good for daily consumption, and promotes and enhances a great immune system.
In summary, accurately distinguishing between influenza and the common cold is crucial for effective management. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) stands out as a valuable approach, not only excelling in treating influenza but also encompassing unique treatment methods. You are welcome to visit our clinic andplease feel free to consult our TCM Practitioner。