Best Herbal Remedies for Bronchial Asthma According to Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding Bronchial Asthma from a TCM Perspective
Bronchial asthma, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as "Xiao Zheng" or wheezing disorder, is viewed through a holistic lens that emphasizes pattern differentiation. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on symptom suppression, TCM categorizes asthma into distinct subtypes based on underlying imbalances. These include cold-type asthma, heat-type asthma, wind-phlegm asthma, cold-wrapping-heat asthma, and deficiency-type asthma. Recognizing the correct pattern is essential for selecting the most effective herbal formula.
Acute Phase: Treating Different Types of Asthma Attacks
Cold-Type Asthma – Use She Gan Ma Huang Tang
For patients experiencing cold-type asthma—characterized by clear phlegm, aversion to cold, and wheezing triggered by exposure to cold air—the classic formula She Gan Ma Huang Tang is highly recommended. Originating from the ancient text Jin Gui Yao Lue, this powerful blend includes key herbs like Belamcanda chinensis (She Gan), Ephedra (Ma Huang), Pulmonaria (Zi Wan), Colchicum (Dong Hua), and Asarum (Xi Xin). These ingredients work synergistically to warm the lungs, dispel cold, resolve phlegm, and stop wheezing.
Heat-Type Asthma – Opt for Ding Chuan Tang
In cases where asthma presents with yellow, thick phlegm, fever, restlessness, and a rapid pulse—indicative of internal heat—the Ding Chuan Tang (Asthma-Relieving Decoction) is the preferred remedy. This formula effectively clears lung heat, resolves phlegm, and calms wheezing. It combines cooling herbs like Scutellaria baicalensis and Ginkgo seeds with bronchodilating agents to address both the root and manifestation of the condition.
Wind-Phlegm Asthma – Try San Zi Yang Qin Tang
When asthma is driven by excessive phlegm production and sudden attacks triggered by environmental changes, TCM identifies this as wind-phlegm asthma. The time-tested San Zi Yang Qin Tang (Three Seeds Nourishing Relatives Decoction), modified as needed, helps regulate lung function, transform phlegm, and improve breathing. Ingredients such as perilla seed, white mustard seed, and radish seed are central to its mechanism.
Cold-Wrapping-Heat Pattern – Consider Xiao Qing Long Tang with Gypsum
This complex pattern involves an exterior cold invasion suppressing internal heat, leading to persistent cough, wheezing, and minimal sweating. The modified Xiao Qing Long Tang with Shi Gao (gypsum) or Da Qing Long Tang is ideal for releasing the exterior, dispersing cold, and clearing interior heat simultaneously. This dual-action approach makes it particularly effective during seasonal transitions when asthma flare-ups are common.
Deficiency-Type Asthma – Support with Qi Wei Du Qi Wan and Ping Chuan Gu Ben Tang
Chronic or long-term asthma often reflects underlying deficiencies in the lungs, spleen, or kidneys. For these constitutional weaknesses, formulas like Qi Wei Du Qi Wan and Ping Chuan Gu Ben Tang are used to tonify vital energy, stabilize breathing, and strengthen organ systems. These remedies focus on treating both the symptoms and the root cause, offering lasting relief rather than temporary suppression.
Remission Phase: Strengthening the Body to Prevent Relapse
The remission phase is a critical window in TCM asthma management. Rather than waiting for another attack, practitioners emphasize strengthening the body's defenses. This preventive strategy is one of TCM's greatest strengths.
Lung Deficiency – Boost Immunity with Yu Ping Feng San
Patients with weak lung qi often catch colds easily and experience shortness of breath. Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen Powder) is widely prescribed to fortify the defensive qi, reduce respiratory infections, and lower asthma recurrence rates.
Spleen Deficiency – Improve Digestion and Phlegm Control
A weak spleen fails to transform fluids properly, leading to excess phlegm—a major trigger for asthma. Herbs like Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang enhance digestive function, strengthen the spleen, and reduce dampness and mucus buildup in the lungs.
Kidney Deficiency – Replenish Root Energy with Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
In chronic cases, especially among older adults, kidney yang deficiency may contribute to shallow breathing and fatigue. Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan, a renowned kidney-tonifying formula, helps anchor the qi, improve respiratory stamina, and support overall vitality.
Tailoring Treatment to Individual Needs
One of the core principles of TCM is personalized care. No two asthma cases are exactly alike. A thorough assessment of symptoms, tongue appearance, pulse quality, and lifestyle factors guides the selection and modification of herbal formulas. Whether using Sheng Mai Yin for qi and yin deficiency or customizing blends for mixed patterns, the goal is always to restore balance.
In conclusion, herbal medicine offers a comprehensive, natural approach to managing bronchial asthma. By distinguishing between acute attacks and remission phases—and tailoring treatment to each individual's constitution—TCM not only alleviates symptoms but also enhances long-term resilience against asthma triggers. Always consult a licensed TCM practitioner before starting any herbal regimen to ensure safety and efficacy.