Treating the Lung with Tcm
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, lung qi refers to the energy or vital force associated with the lungs.
Lung qi is responsible for the proper functioning of the lungs and the respiratory system, as well as the immune system. It is also associated with the skin, which is considered an extension of the lungs in TCM.
When lung qi is strong and balanced, a person will have healthy breathing, good immunity, and clear skin. However, when lung qi is weak or imbalanced, a person may experience respiratory problems such as asthma, cough, shortness of breath, mucus, allergies, or frequent respiratory infections.
The Lungs play a crucial role in maintaining the balance between the internal and external environments and are the first line of defense against external pathogens.
Key Lung Patterns in TCM
1. Lung Qi Deficiency
Causes: Prolonged illness, poor posture, weak constitution, grief, or chronic overwork.
Symptoms:
Weak voice or reluctance to speak.
Shortness of breath or fatigue.
Spontaneous sweating.
Pale complexion.
Weak immune system (frequent colds).
2. Lung Yin Deficiency
Causes: Chronic illness, excessive heat conditions, smoking, or dry environments.
Symptoms:
Dry cough (may produce scanty or blood-streaked sputum).
Dry throat, mouth, and skin.
Hoarseness or loss of voice.
Night sweats or low-grade fever.
3. Wind-Cold Invading the Lungs
Causes: Exposure to cold or drafts, changes in season, windy and cold climates.
Symptoms:
Chills and mild fever (chills predominate).
Cough with clear or white sputum.
Nasal congestion, sneezing, and clear nasal discharge.
Body aches and stiffness.
4. Wind-Heat Invading the Lungs
Causes: Exposure to warm, dry environments or seasonal pathogens.
Symptoms:
Fever and chills (fever predominates).
Sore throat and yellow nasal discharge.
Cough with yellow or sticky sputum.
Thirst and aversion to heat.
5. Lung Dryness
Causes: External dryness (autumn dryness or arid climates), dehydration, smoking, dehydration, or prolonged Yin deficiency.
Symptoms:
Dry cough without sputum or with scanty sputum.
Dry skin, throat, and nose.
Hoarseness or loss of voice.
6. Phlegm-Damp Obstructing the Lungs
Causes: Spleen dysfunction leading to Damp accumulation, excessive cold/raw foods, overconsumption of inflammatory foods, or sedentary lifestyle.
Symptoms:
Cough with copious white, sticky sputum.
Chest congestion or a heavy sensation in the chest.
Shortness of breath or wheezing.
Fatigue and poor appetite.
7. Phlegm-Heat Obstructing the Lungs
Causes: Chronic Lung issues with Heat accumulation, smoking, or infections.
Symptoms:
Barking cough with profuse yellow, green sputum.
Shortness of breath or wheezing.
Fever, thirst, and a feeling of heat in the chest.
8. Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency
Causes: Chronic illnesses, aging, or excessive stress and overwork.
Symptoms:
Persistent dry cough or wheezing.
Soreness or weakness in the lower back and knees.
Night sweats, hot flashes, or a feeling of heat in the palms and soles.
shortness of breath
Lungs and Immune System
The lungs also play a significant role in the immune system. The lungs influence the Wei Qi of the body, which is very similar to the protective defense mechanism of immune function. If the lung qi is weak, the lungs are susceptible to outside pathogens and frequent colds and flu’s.
Acupuncture, herbs and dietary recommendations strengthen lung qi and wei qi (immune function). Acupuncture supports the lung channel by sending direct feedback into the lung’s, supporting respiration and a robust immune system. Are you experiencing symptoms affecting your lungs? Schedule a New Patient Visit today.
