TCM Treatment for Asthma

A Natural Therapy for Constitutional Conditioning and Treating Both Root and Symptoms

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease characterized by recurrent wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It not only affects daily life and work but can also lead to impaired lung function, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and even increased cardiovascular risks due to frequent attacks. According to a 2023 medical study in Singapore, the current adult asthma prevalence is approximately 6.3%, while nearly 20% of the population has experienced asthma symptoms at some point in their lives. This highlights asthma as a significant chronic condition in Singapore. Children and individuals allergic to dust mites, pollen, or pet hair are particularly high-risk groups. If early conditions like allergic rhinitis are not effectively treated, they often progress into chronic asthma, impacting quality of life and productivity.

While relying solely on Western medication for control can sometimes lead to dependency, TCM treatment for asthma offers a gentle, long-term effective natural therapy that helps patients regulate their bodies from the root and reduce recurrences.

How Does TCM View Asthma?

In TCM, asthma is referred to as "Xiao Zheng" (wheezing syndrome) or "Chuan Zheng" (breathlessness syndrome). It is believed to be primarily related to the dysfunction of the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney. Causes involve external factors like wind-cold, dietary imbalances, emotional stress, and constitutional weakness. Asthma is categorized into Excess Type and Deficiency Type: Excess is common during acute phases (caused by phlegm-heat or wind-cold), while Deficiency is seen during remission (such as Lung-Spleen Qi deficiency or Kidney deficiency).

TCM emphasizes "Syndrome Differentiation," creating personalized treatment plans based on an individual's constitution, symptoms, and disease stage to harmonize the organs, Qi, and blood.

TCM Treatment Methods for Asthma

1. Chinese Herbal Medicine

  • Wind-Cold Lung Invasion: Cough with thin white phlegm, aversion to cold. Formulas like Mahuang Decoction are used to warm the lungs.
  • Phlegm-Heat Lung Obstruction: Yellow thick phlegm, rapid breathing, dry throat. Formulas like Sangbai-pi Decoction are used to clear heat.
  • Lung-Spleen Qi Deficiency: Shortness of breath, weak cough, spontaneous sweating. Formulas like Liujunzi Decoction help supplement Qi.
  • Kidney Deficiency: Wheezing that worsens at night, weak knees, frequent urination. Formulas like Jingui Shenqi Pills help the Kidney "grasp" Qi.

These formulas focus on strengthening the Spleen and Kidney, clearing heat, resolving phlegm, and nourishing the Lungs to enhance overall resistance.

2. Acupuncture for Asthma

Acupuncture is widely used in TCM clinical practice for asthma. By stimulating points such as Feishu, Danzhong, Zusanli, Shenshu, and Dingchuan, it effectively regulates Qi, enhances lung function, and relieves symptoms. Modern research shows that acupuncture can improve lung function indicators and reduce the frequency of acute attacks.

3. Constitutional Conditioning & Dietary Therapy

TCM emphasizes that when "Righteous Qi is preserved within, Pathogenic Qi cannot interfere." By strengthening the Lungs, Spleen, and Kidneys, we improve immunity. Ingredients like Lily bulb, Yam, White Fungus, and Lotus seeds are used for their Lung-nourishing and Yin-moistening properties.

Additionally, we advise patients to avoid cold, spicy, or seafood triggers based on their constitution, combined with regular routines and moderate exercise to improve the internal environment.

The Dangers of Asthma Cannot Be Ignored

If asthma is poorly controlled long-term, it can lead to serious complications such as bronchiectasis, emphysema, and chronic respiratory failure. Childhood asthma can also affect lung development, increasing the risk of COPD in adulthood. Therefore, early intervention and long-term conditioning are crucial.

For patients with allergic constitutions, TCM emphasizes regulating the immune system from the source, addressing both rhinitis and asthma to reduce dependency on medication.

Dr Li Rui

MOH-registered TCM physician with a Master’s degree from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and over 30 years of clinical experience

Dr Li has over 30 years of clinical experience and specializes in treating respiratory diseases. She has deep expertise in managing asthma triggered by allergic rhinitis, especially in children and those with weak constitutions. By combining herbal medicine and acupuncture, she develops personalized plans that help many patients reduce their reliance on inhalers and significantly improve their quality of life.

She often says:

“Asthma is not just a lung disease; it is an external manifestation of an unstable constitution. Fix the constitution, and the asthma will naturally subside.”

About Our Physician
Get In Touch With Us
Dr Li Rui Shanghai Chinese Medical Centre Singapore

Asthma is a chronic disease that requires early treatment and systematic conditioning. TCM emphasizes individual differences and overall wellness. Please seek professional guidance rather than self-medicating.

If you or your family are troubled by asthma, book a consultation with Dr Li Rui to build a solid foundation for respiratory health.

Locate Us

Shanghai Chinese Medicine Centre

Blk 925 Yishun Central 1
#01-243
Singapore 760925

Call Us

+65 6756 1528

Email Us

info@tcm-shanghai.com.sg

Enter Details in This Form:

Thank you for your interest in Shanghai Chinese Medical Centre Singapore. For appointments or more information, please complete the form below and our team will contact you as soon as possible.
Contact Form English