In order for the body to defend itself against disease, it needs adequate rest. Sleeping is the only time the body can truly repair itself; in the context of TCM, our Qi, or energy flow, and blood are restored only during rest. Diminished qi compromises the body’s ability to fight off disease.

Another way to keep our body’s qi at a strong and healthy level is to minimize stress. Illness moves in when we let ourselves get run down, particularly in winter months. Winding down in autumn and winter is part of the natural cycle to rest and restore. Avoid physical stress by staying warm, covering the neck, keeping out of the wind, eating comforting and hearty meals, and getting extra sleep to help restore the body’s defenses. Living in accordance with the natural rhythm of the seasons will give the immune system the boost it needs to ward off cold and flu.

Nutrition also plays a big role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Eating a diet based on whole foods—unprocessed fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—keeps the body strong. Cooking with herbs and spices like fennel, anise, onion, turmeric, cumin, clove, coriander, basil, cinnamon and garlic aids digestion and strengthens qi. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids like warm ginger tea also helps balance the immune system, particularly when the body is coming down with something.

Herbal therapies are an important part of TCM, and can aid in warding off illness. Astragalus, an immune-boosting herb, may be used in combination with zinc and vitamin C; many others may be prescribed by a TCM practitioner, who will evaluate each individual’s circumstances.

Finally, acupuncture has been known to boost immunity and ease flu symptoms. Because Chinese medicine takes a holistic approach, a combination of treatments tailored to each person may be used to treat colds and flu.

Chinese medicine’s understanding of the common cold is in line with its philosophy of energy medicine. The common cold is seen as an invasion of Wind in the body. Accordingly, there are two major categories of colds; Wind cold and Wind heat. The former is characterized by chills and sensitivity to cold. Sneezing and a runny nose are also associated with Wind cold. Wind heat, on the other hand, is more like a fever. Coughing, thick mucus, irritability, and a rapid pulse are features of Wind heat.

Like other Eastern medical systems, Chinese medicine targets the immune system, unlike Western medicine which tries to eliminate the pathogen. The reasoning is that a strong Chi, or vital energy, will make it more difficult for a pathogen to take control or worsen.

For Wind cold conditions, sweating therapy is recommended to flush out the toxins from the body. A good supplement is miso soup with spring onions and ginger. Ephedra concoctions with ginger and cinnamon are also prescribed by practitioners. However, this must be taken only under medical supervision, as Ephedra is a very potent drug. Green tea is used if the cold is accompanied by nasal and head congestion.

In case of Wind heat, herbal formulas containing chrysanthemum, peppermint, mulberry, and licorice are prescribed. Ginseng and caffeinated drinks are strictly prohibited at this time as they can worsen the condition. Yin Qiao San is a very popular Chinese remedy which is also used to treat influenza and tonsillitis.

Acupuncture is also good for immediate relief from the common cold. Points along the lung and large intestine meridians are targeted, as they are directly linked to the well-being of the immune system. Like any other treatment, Chinese herbs should be taken only as per the instructions of a qualified practitioner.