Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) takes a unique perspective of the human body using a distinct vocabulary and viewpoint different from Western biomedicine. TCM looks at the whole body or interconnected parts that need to be in harmony and balance to prevent disease. 

TCM’s perspective of the immune system is especially unique. For example, you may have heard of “Qi” (pronounced chee). Qi is the body’s vital energy, or life force. It circulates through the body along pathways called meridians. Qi ensures that the organ systems are nourished and in balance and harmony. When Qi is abundant, the body can defend itself from pathogens (like bacteria and viruses) and is strong and resilient. When Qi is weak or stagnant, the body is vulnerable to pathogens. Think weak immune system. 

Wei-Qi (protective Qi)
Central to the immune system is Wei-Qi. Wei-Qi is a specific type of Qi that governs the body’s defenses. This is why it is often referred to as “defensive Qi”. It acts as a protective shield against pathogens and circulates under the skin and in the muscle layers. It guards the body against illness, maintains warmth, and regulates the opening and closing of pores. 

What are external pathogens according to TCM?

In TCM, we refer to the external pathogens of wind, dampness, heat, cold, and dryness. When the wei-Qi is weak, the body is more susceptible to getting attacked by these external pathogens and they enter the body. We are protected and stay healthy when the wei-Qi is strong and abundant. When these pathogens do invade, we can get colds, fevers, or even chronic health conditions. 

Certain organ systems are central to the immune system according to TCM – the lungs, spleen, and kidneys. 

The Lungs: The lungs are responsible for circulating Wei Qi. If your lungs are strong and the flow of Wei Qi is smooth and abundant, your body is more resistant to getting sick. Weak lung Qi can lead to frequent colds, respiratory infections, and allergic reactions. Other signs of weak lung Qi are shortness of breath, fatigue, a weak voice, and a dry throat. 

The Spleen: In TCM, the spleen is considered a vital organ for both digestion and the immune system. It has a very different role from the spleen as understood in Western medicine. The most important role that the spleen plays is that it produces Qi which is essential for the immune system. A strong spleen ensures that the Qi is abundant and well distributed throughout the body which supports vitality and resilience. 

Another function of the spleen is that it transforms and transports fluids throughout the body. If this function is weak, dampness is created. Dampness is a sluggish fluid, like a waste product, that accumulates and interferes with proper Qi flow. Dampness can weaken the immune system. 

Other signs that point to a weak spleen are fatigue, heavy feeling in the body, swelling or water retention, digestive issues like bloating, gas, loose stools and loss of appetite. 

A strong spleen ensures good digestion, balanced fluid metabolism, and the smooth flow of energy, all of which are essential for a healthy immune response.

The Kidneys: The kidneys are important to the immune system but in a more indirect way than the lungs and spleen. The kidneys are the root of Qi. This means that Kidney Qi is fundamental in supporting all of the body’s processes. The kidneys are key in producing, supporting, and storing all types of Qi. 

The kidneys store Jing which is the body’s vital essence. Jing is foundational and very profound because it plays a role in growth, reproduction, development, and supporting the body’s vitality. A deficiency of Jing and Qi is often caused by aging, chronic illness, and overwork, which can lead to a weakened immune system. 

While the lungs are directly responsible for circulating Wei Qi, the kidneys provide the deeper source of Qi that supports this process. Strong kidney-Qi makes sure that the wei-Qi is well rooted. 

Some signs of weak kidney Qi are chronic illness, low back pain, decreased hearing, general fatigue, weak resistance to external cold, cold extremities, prolonged recovery from illness, and reproductive and urinary issues. 

By nurturing the kidneys through proper lifestyle habits, one can strengthen Qi and support long-term health and resilience.

Strengthening the Immune System with TCM

Chinese medicine offers many approaches to strengthen the immune system, focusing on preventing illness by promoting overall balance in the body. Here are a few key strategies used:

Acupuncture: Acupuncture helps to promote the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body and can strengthen Wei Qi. This means that regular acupuncture treatments improve the functioning of your immune system and prevents illnesses. 

Self-Acupressure: This is one of the best tools to use at home to strengthen your immune system and ward off colds, flus, and illness. Dr. Maryam has created an online course you can sign up for and do at your own pace. It teaches you how to do self-acupressure to boost your immunity and offers comprehensive diet and lifestyle advice. Check out the Boost Your Immune System Online Course here. 

Customized Chinese Herbal Formulas: In my clinical practice, I give customized herbal formulas tailored to the individual’s needs based on their constitution and Chinese medicine pattern diagnosis. This personalized approach to medicine is what makes Chinese herbs effective and unique. I carry many formulas that benefit the immune system and overall health. Patients report heightened energy, better digestion and mental alertness, and improved resilience during cold and flu season. One of my favorite formulas for the immune system is called Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang. The main ingredients are astragalus and ginseng to strengthen the Qi.

Diet and Nutrition: TCM offers a lot of wisdom when it comes to proper diet to benefit your immune system. This includes eating with the seasons, eating warm foods in cold weather, avoiding raw and cold foods, and choosing foods that nourish the spleen, lungs, and kidneys. 

Lifestyle Adjustments: TCM encourages living in harmony with nature’s cycles, including getting adequate rest, managing stress, and maintaining emotional balance, all of which contribute to a strong immune system. After listening carefully to you, Dr. Maryam will advise you on many aspects of your lifestyle and get you started on improving your immune health right away. 

A great first step in getting you started on better immune health is to check out Dr. Maryam’s Free Online Assessment of Immune Health: How healthy is your immune system? This specially designed assessment is rooted in the wisdom of Chinese medicine and offers a unique perspective on assessing and enhancing your body’s defense system. You will determine the health of your immune system, your immune type, and finally, you will receive actionable advice on strengthening your immune system proactively. 

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. I am available for in-person acupuncture and herbal appointments and online consultations. Also, check out my online resources including blog posts, online quizzes, and self-treatment courses.

In Support,

Dr. Maryam