When it comes to preventing colds, the most important aspect is preventing the flu. Currently, we are in the flu season, making it necessary for people to understand some of the concepts and methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for preventing the flu. These methods are more practical and effective than Western medicine's flu vaccine injections.
Influenza is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus, often showing a tendency for group outbreaks. The common cold, on the other hand, is caused by viruses or bacteria other than the influenza virus. In influenza symptoms, patients primarily exhibit a fever, often above 38°C, with significant headache and body aches, while respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose are relatively mild. Common colds often involve a low-grade fever, usually below 38°C, but are characterized by more noticeable coughing and a runny nose, and are often triggered by factors such as fatigue or sudden changes in weather. Here, we will only discuss the prevention of influenza.
The principles of TCM for preventing influenza are quite unique. According to TCM theory, influenza is caused by the body being invaded by pathogenic heat. Based on the TCM concept of "like attracts like," it is determined that individuals with pre-existing internal heat and toxins are more susceptible to contracting influenza from pathogenic heat. Therefore, people with pre-existing internal heat and toxins should be the primary focus for prevention. This group of people often exhibits symptoms of "heatiness," frequently showing one or more of the following: canker sores, dry mouth and sore throat, facial acne, constipation and dark yellow urine, red eyes, nosebleeds, loss of appetite, irritability, and anger. Sometimes, they may experience more than one of these symptoms. Once the target population for prevention is identified, relevant preventive measures can be formulated. In other words, the prevention efforts become more targeted. The preventive measures for influenza for individuals with pre-existing internal heat and toxins include: using cooling herbs to clear heat and reduce fire, avoiding pungent and heating foods, protecting the stomach's vital energy (qi), maintaining a balanced diet, and especially consuming more cooling vegetables and fruits, such as watermelon, tomatoes, bananas, cabbage, cucumber, bitter melon, and various edible mushrooms. It is also recommended to eat less high-fat and high-sugar foods, avoid sudden changes in environmental temperature, and adjust clothing promptly. Through comprehensive TCM conditioning, it is possible to prevent the onset of influenza.