Low Immunity — TCM Food Therapy & Dietary Approach
In TCM theory, low immunity may be associated with deficiency of lung and spleen qi and insufficient production of defensive qi (weiqi), leaving the body's surface unguarded and the pores loose, so the person is prone to repeated colds, spontaneous sweating, and aversion to wind.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Patterns
In TCM, this concern is differentiated into several patterns, each with a classical herbal formula:
Insecurity of Defensive Qi (Exterior Deficiency with Spontaneous Sweating, Lung-Spleen Qi Deficiency)
Formula: Yupingfeng San (Jade Windscreen Powder) — from *Teachings of Master Danxi*
These formulas are for reference under TCM syndrome differentiation and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
Food Therapy & Diet
Dietary Therapy Recipes
- Astragalus and Goji Berry Tea: 15 g astragalus (huangqi), 15 g goji berries (gouqi); decoct in water and drink as tea.
- Astragalus and Chinese Date Tea: 15 g astragalus (huangqi) and pitted Chinese dates (hongzao); simmer for 20 minutes and strain the liquid.
- Codonopsis-Astragalus Chinese Date Congee: 15 g astragalus (huangqi), 10 g codonopsis (dangshen), 30 g Chinese dates (hongzao), 100 g polished round-grained rice (jingmi); decoct the herbs to obtain the juice and cook into congee.
- Steamed Egg with Goji Berries: beaten eggs with goji berries (gouqi); steam over water until cooked.
Dietary Principles
- Prefer foods that may support qi and strengthen the spleen, lungs, and body surface: astragalus, codonopsis, Chinese yam, Chinese dates, goji berries, shiitake mushrooms, snow fungus, lotus seeds, millet.
- Include moderate amounts of quality protein, such as lean meat and eggs.
- Avoid raw, cold, cooling, greasy, rich, and spicy foods.
- Pause warming tonics during acute illness with fever and excess heat.
Understanding the Condition
In TCM theory, low immunity may be associated with deficiency of lung and spleen qi and insufficient production of defensive qi (weiqi), leaving the body's surface unguarded and the pores loose, so the person is prone to repeated colds, spontaneous sweating, and aversion to wind.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.