Best Chinese Remedies for Immunity
TCM strengthens immunity by fortifying wei qi (defensive qi) — the protective energy that circulates on the body's surface. Strong wei qi repels pathogens; weak wei qi means frequent colds and slow recovery.
Recommended Teas
Pu-erh (Ripe/Shou)
普洱熟茶 · Dark
Aids digestion and fat metabolism, Warms the stomach, Lowers cholesterol, Resolves dampness
Dragon Well (Longjing)
龙井 · Green
Rich in antioxidants, Clears heat, Aids digestion, Brightens the mind
Chrysanthemum Tea
菊花茶 · Herbal/Flower
Clears liver heat, Brightens eyes (great for screen fatigue), Relieves headache, Calms inflammation
Recommended Foods
Goji Berry
枸杞 · Gǒu Qǐ
Nourishes liver and kidney yin, Brightens eyes
Shiitake Mushroom
香菇 · Xiāng Gū
Tonifies qi, Strengthens the spleen
Garlic
大蒜 · Dà Suàn
Warms the spleen and stomach, Detoxifies
Ginger
生姜 · Shēng Jiāng
Warms the middle burner, Dispels cold
Acupressure Points
足三里 · Stomach
Four finger-widths below the kneecap, one finger-width lateral to the shinbone (tibia). You'll feel a small depression.
曲池 · Large Intestine
At the outer end of the elbow crease when the arm is bent at 90 degrees. Find the depression at the lateral end of the transverse cubital crease.
肺俞 · Bladder
On the upper back, 1.5 finger-widths lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra (T3).
风池 · Gallbladder
At the base of the skull, in the hollow between the two large neck muscles (sternocleidomastoid and trapezius), level with the earlobe.
合谷 · Large Intestine
In the webbing between thumb and index finger, at the highest point of the muscle when thumb and index finger are brought together.
Traditional Herbs
- ● Astragalus (黄芪 Huáng Qí)
- ● Reishi (灵芝 Líng Zhī)
- ● Cordyceps (冬虫夏草 Dōng Chóng Xià Cǎo)
- ● Elderberry (接骨木 Jiē Gǔ Mù)
Consult a qualified TCM practitioner before using medicinal herbs.