Stay Healthy This Season: Natural Cold & Flu Prevention
Each year, as the weather cools and the days shorten, I see an uptick in patients coming in with colds, sore throats, coughs, and fatigue. Some recover quickly, while others struggle for weeks. Over decades of practice, I’ve observed that the difference often lies not in the virus itself—but in the strength of the person’s inner defenses.
How I View Immunity in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we believe illness takes hold when two conditions meet: a strong external pathogen and a weakened internal defense. Our defensive energy, called Wei Qi, is like an invisible shield that circulates on the surface of the body, protecting us from invasion. When we’re well-rested, emotionally balanced, and nourished, Wei Qi is strong. When we’re stressed, run down, or eating poorly, that shield weakens and viruses can slip through.
So rather than waiting until we get sick, it’s wiser to focus on strengthening our immune system throughout the year. That means eating warm, cooked, easy-to-digest meals; getting enough rest; exercising gently but consistently; and maintaining emotional balance through practices such as meditation and qi gong.
Why I Recommend Acupuncture for Prevention
Many people think of acupuncture only after they’ve fallen ill, but it’s actually one of the best tools for prevention. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate inflammation, improve circulation, and modulate immune response. In my clinical experience, patients who receive regular acupuncture—especially during the transition into fall and winter—tend to get sick less often, and when they do, their symptoms are milder and recovery faster.
When early symptoms arise—like sore throat, fatigue, or nasal congestion—acupuncture can quickly relieve discomfort and rebalance the system. It helps open the sinuses, clear heat, and restore the body’s natural healing rhythm.
Herbal Medicine: Nature’s Pharmacy
Chinese herbal medicine offers another powerful way to support the immune system. Some herbs strengthen our defenses before illness strikes, while others help the body clear pathogens once symptoms begin.
In my practice, I often recommend Reishi, Cordyceps, and Maitake—medicinal mushrooms in Natural Immunity as daily immune tonics. These adaptogenic herbs nourish the lungs and spleen, build vital Qi, and enhance resilience. At the first sign of infection, herbs such as Fang Feng, Bai Zhi, and Ban Lan Gen in the Immunity formula can help expel wind and heat, easing symptoms naturally. These formulas are based on classical TCM principles I’ve used in clinic for decades, crafted to strengthen the body’s innate defense system and shorten recovery time.
Lessons from the SARS and COVID Eras
During the SARS outbreak in 2002, my mentor, Dr. Zhou Shao Qin, reminded me of a prediction he made years earlier—that I would live through at least two major pandemics originating from southern China. His words stayed with me, and I revisited my old class notes to develop a preventive herbal blend, which I later called ZGS Formula.
When COVID-19 appeared years later, that formula served as a valuable tool for supporting patients. I witnessed firsthand how early intervention—with acupuncture, herbs, rest, and stress management—could reduce the severity and duration of illness. These experiences reaffirmed for me that prevention truly is the best medicine.
Practical Tips for Staying Healthy
Eat warm, wholesome foods and avoid cold or raw meals in cooler weather.
Sleep 7–8 hours per night to recharge your immune system.
Practice meditation and Crane Qi Gong to calm the mind and strengthen Qi.
Take preventive herbal formulas like Immunity formula regularly during cold and flu season.
At the first sign of illness, rest, hydrate, and seek acupuncture promptly.
Stay Resilient This Season
As autumn settles in, I encourage you to fortify your body before illness strikes.
Book your seasonal acupuncture visit at Tao of Wellness to strengthen your immune system, rebalance Qi, and stay healthy all season long.