Treating Long COVID Symptoms with TCM

Treating Long COVID Symptoms with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture

TCM acupuncture can be used to treat Long COVID with a focus on respiratory symptoms and the vital connection between the lung and kidney.

Common Symptoms of Long COVID

Long COVID can manifest in a variety of symptoms, which may persist for weeks or even months after the initial infection. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath

• Difficult inhalation

• Chest tightness

• Heart palpitations

• Cough

• Wheezing or crackles

• Sputum or mucus production

• Brain fog

• Waking up between 3-5am

Lingering Respiratory Symptoms and Conditions

Respiratory symptoms are particularly concerning for Long COVID sufferers. These include:

• Asthma

• Wheezing

• Shortness of breath

• Persistent cough

• Chest tightness

• Excessive sputum or mucus

The Relationship Between the Lung and Kidney in TCM

The lung and kidney are viewed as a paired organ system playing a crucial role in maintaining respiratory and overall health. This concept is rooted in the theory that the lung governs the qi (vital energy) and respiration while the kidney is responsible for grasping the qi and ensuring its smooth flow throughout the body. Some common patterns related to respiratory symptoms are Lung Qi Deficiency, Kidney Qi Deficiency and Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency.

What is Lung Qi Deficiency?

When the lung qi is weak it can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and an inability to properly expel mucus.

What is Kidney Qi Deficiency?
When the kidney qi is deficient, it can impair the lung's ability to function properly, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, asthma, and heart palpitations.

What is Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency?

Both the lung and kidney need adequate yin to maintain moisture and nourish the organs. Deficiency in yin can result in dry cough, scanty sputum, night sweats, and a feeling of heat in the palms and soles.

TCM Herbs and Formulas for Long COVID

Several TCM herbs and formulas can help address the symptoms associated with Long COVID, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. Here are some of the most effective ones:

Herbs for Lung Qi Deficiency:

• Ren Shen (Ginseng): Strengthens the lung and kidney qi.

• Huang Qi (Astragalus): Boosts immune function and strengthens the lung qi.

• Ting Li Zi (Pepperweed): Drains the Lungs, reduces phlegm and calms wheezing and edema of the face.

• Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Berry): reduces cough, asthma, nourishes the kidney’s

• Lai Fu Zi (Radish Seed): reduces cough, wheezing, regulates Lung and transforms phlegm.

Herbs for Kidney Qi Deficiency:

• Dang Shen (Codonopsis): Tonifies the lung and kidney qi.

• Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berry): Nourishes the kidney and liver, helping to support lung function.

Formulas for Long COVID Respiratory Symptoms:

• Bu Fei Tang (Tonify the Lungs Decoction): Strengthens lung qi and is useful for chronic cough and shortness of breath.

• Shen Ge San (Ginseng and Gecko Powder): Tonifies both lung and kidney qi, beneficial for wheezing and asthma.

• Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill): Nourishes kidney yin and supports lung health, useful for dry cough and other yin deficiency symptoms.

• Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan (Clear Qi and Transform Phlegm Pill): Clears heat, resolves phlegm, and stops coughing, ideal for persistent cough with sputum.

• Respitrol(Deficient): Antiasthmatic and bronchodilating effects to treat wheezing, dyspnea and asthma.

Acupuncture for Long COVID

Acupuncture can significantly alleviate Long COVID symptoms by restoring the balance of qi and supporting the body's natural healing processes. Some effective acupuncture points for respiratory symptoms include:

• LU 9 (Taiyuan): Strengthens lung qi and alleviates coughing.

• KD 3 (Taixi): Nourishes kidney yin and supports lung function.

• ST 36 (Zusanli): Boosts overall qi and immune function.

• BL 13 (Feishu): Strengthens the lung and is useful for respiratory issues.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture offer a holistic approach to managing Long COVID symptoms. By understanding the vital connection between the lung and kidney in TCM, practitioners can tailor treatments to support these paired organs and alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and persistent cough.

Utilizing specific herbs and acupuncture points, TCM can help restore balance and improve the quality of life for those suffering from Long COVID. Always consult with a qualified TCM practitioner to ensure the best and safest treatment plan for your individual needs. Request an appointment here.