Feeling a Cold Coming On? How Chinese Medicine Can Help
By Dr. Tristine, DAcCHM, LAc
In this post • Every cold looks a little different, so Chinese medicine matches treatment to your symptoms. • Already taking Chinese herbs? Message us when you get sick. We may adjust them. • New here? A virtual herbal consult with Dr. Tristine is the easiest way to start. |
As the weather cools down, colds and other respiratory bugs start making the rounds.
When a scratchy throat, stuffy nose, chills, or unusual tiredness shows up, most of us wait to see what happens. In Chinese medicine, those first signs are the best time to act, because treatment is matched to the symptoms your body is showing right now.
Not Every Cold Looks the Same
Two people who both say "I have a cold" may get very different recommendations. Here are three common patterns.
The "chilly" cold
Chills that are stronger than any fever
Body aches or a stiff neck
Clear runny nose and sneezing
Little or no sweating
What it means: your body needs warming support, so the herbs chosen tend to be warming.
The "hot" cold
A sore or irritated throat
Feeling warm or feverish
Headache and thirst
Yellow or thicker mucus
What it means: there is more heat and irritation, so cooling, soothing herbs are a better fit.
The "run-down" cold
Significant fatigue
Digestive upset
A lingering cough, sinus congestion, or chest congestion
What it means: your reserves are low, so the focus is on clearing what is left of the cold while rebuilding your strength.
Many colds are a mix of these, which is why an individual assessment matters.
Herbal Medicine During a Cold
A Chinese herbal formula can be chosen to help with a sore throat, congestion, runny nose, cough, sinus pressure, headache, body aches, chills, feeling feverish, phlegm, and fatigue.
Your formula may change as your cold changes. What fits on day one may not fit on day four, which is why we ask you to reach out as soon as symptoms start.
Already Taking Chinese Herbs?
If you are taking a formula for something else, like your cycle, digestion, fertility, or sleep, let us know when you get sick. We may pause it, adjust it, or switch you to a different formula until the cold passes. Please do not stop on your own. Check with us first.
Can Acupuncture Help When I'm Getting Sick?
Yes. With mild cold symptoms, acupuncture can help with congestion, headache, body tension, cough, and general discomfort. Your session will focus on how you feel that day.
Should I Still Come to My Appointment?
Mild cold, no fever, no vomiting: you can usually still come in. Please message us before your visit so we can prepare.
Fever or vomiting: please stay home and cancel your in-person visit. We can often switch you to a virtual herbal consult instead.
The earlier we know what is happening, the more we can tailor your care to what your body needs.
How to Reach Us
Current patients: send us a message through Practice Better.
New here? Book a virtual herbal consult with Dr. Tristine.
It helps to tell us when your symptoms started, whether you feel chilled, warm, or both, whether you have a fever or are sweating, what your throat, nose, and mucus are like, how your energy and appetite are, and any medications, supplements, or herbs you take.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a virtual herbal consult cost?
Visit pricing is listed on our booking page.
How much do the herbs cost?
Every herb has a different price, so we calculate the total for your individual formula. We are happy to calculate the cost for you before we fill it.
How do I get my herbs?
Two options: free coordinated pickup, or we ship them to you. That means you can work with Dr. Tristine virtually from anywhere in the U.S.
Are Chinese herbs safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Some herbs are and some are not. Dr. Tristine has advanced training in choosing herbs that are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please do not take a cold formula while pregnant or breastfeeding without guidance.
Can my kids take Chinese herbs?
Yes. Dr. Tristine sees babies, toddlers, and kids, and herbs and doses are chosen for their age and size. For kids, we often prepare the herbs as a glycerite, a sweet-tasting liquid that is much easier for little ones to take. Please do not give children an adult formula.
What if I take medications?
Tell us everything you take. Dr. Tristine reviews medications and chooses herbs that are safe to take alongside them.
Supporting Your Body During Sick Season
Rest, drink plenty of fluids, eat simple warm meals, and give yourself time to recover, even once you start to feel better. For easy foods and teas to make at home, read our companion post: At-Home Food and Tea Remedies for Cold Season.
When to Seek Medical Care
Chinese medicine works alongside medical care, not in place of it. Seek medical care for severe or quickly worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, a high or lasting fever, chest pain, confusion, or anything that worries you.
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