Like many health and wellness conditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine theory provides both insights and solutions to experiences that might otherwise be considered challenging to understand or explain from a pure modern conventional approach.  The recent discussions surrounding the long-term need for lung and respiratory support are a classic example - Acupuncturists and Doctors of Traditional Chinese Medicine can rely on an ancient theory they practice regularly to provide support in a way that's unique to this practice. 

The need for lung support, from short-term to chronic situations, continues to make headlines.  From helping with symptoms associated with coughs, to phlegm-clearing situations and general respiratory strength, like many conditions, Chinese medicine and herbal therapies can offer solutions.  Why?  The “patterns” (a Chinese medicine term) surrounding the need for lung strength often represent a classic “branch-root” observation to Acupuncturists and Doctors of Chinese Medicine - specifically the “branch” when coughing strikes. 

Lung Support: A Chinese Medicine “Branch Presentation”

As noted by DAO Labs Chief Doctor of Chinese Medicine Dr. Eric Karchmer, who is currently in Taiwan studying Chinese Medicine applications under a Fulbright Scholarship, Chinese herbal medicine is traditionally used to support respiratory health, addressing occasional symptoms such as coughs, phlegm, and shortness of breath—particularly among patients he observed while abroad. The reason? Herbal medicine, along with acupuncture, is believed in traditional Chinese medicine to help restore balance in Lung Qi, supporting the body’s natural ability to maintain clear breathing.

“We’re seeing a lot of cases of brain fog and the need for lung support,” noted Dr. Karchmer.  “From a Chinese medicine perspective, the brain fog (which you can learn more about here) in conjunction with symptoms like coughing and phlegm, is a classic 'root-branch' pattern. Both represent branch symptoms caused by disturbances to the deeper flows of Qi,” he added.  

Herbal Recommendations to Support the Lungs

To support the body in addressing Lung Qi imbalances that many are believed to be experiencing, Dr. Karchmer recommends the classic Chinese herbal medicine formula Zhi Sou San, which literally translates to “Stop Cough Formula”.  Variations of this formula can be helpful as well, depending on the unique circumstances of the person, but this classic formula is one that he has used with both patients and family members alike - with positive results.

Other Ways to Support the Lungs

Coughing isn’t fun, but it can be addressed through the power of Chinese medicine.  Aren’t sure where to get started? 

• Consider a Virtual Consultation with one of our Acupuncturists. They can answer questions, provide at-home care (such as acu-pressure points, diet adjustments, and other behavioral changes that can help with brain fog) and can also recommend an Acupuncturist in your community for further care.
• Consider Breathe Clear herbal tablets, DAO Labs formula based on the classic formula Zhi Sou San (“stop cough formula”) that can be used for lung and respiratory strength. 
• We love the three acupressure points pictured above
• CV 22
• Ding Chuan (extra meridian points next to DU 14) - great for wheezing
• LU 6

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider.  This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.