The latest variant of COVID-19, Omicron, has launched a powerful attack with its high infectivity, catching many off guard. Drawing on the successful experience of the collaboration between traditional Chinese and Western medicine in fighting the pandemic, Dr. Chang Yung, known as the "personal physician to celebrities," frankly stated that in addition to vaccination, the key to this shift in strategy to combat the cunning and ever-changing COVID-19 variant lies in strengthening the digestive system to further enhance the body's immunity.
While some claim that Omicron has relatively low lethality and that vaccination with booster shots can enhance the body's immunity, its high transmissibility still warrants vigilance. Besides vaccination, what countermeasures can be taken against this Omicron outbreak according to the recognized TCM theory of strengthening the body's foundation to combat the epidemic? Dr. Zhang Yong, founder of Shangyitang, believes that people can start by addressing the spleen and stomach to fight viral mutations. Dr. Zhang explains: "The spleen and stomach are the 'foundation of acquired constitution.' In TCM, the spleen and stomach refer to the entire digestive system. Their main function is to transform ingested food into nutrients. As the saying goes, 'The stomach is responsible for receiving food, and the spleen is responsible for transporting and transforming it.' Because the spleen and stomach are specifically responsible for digestion, absorption, and nutrient transport, they are the 'source of qi and blood,' playing an irreplaceable role in maintaining normal bodily functions. Therefore, to improve physical constitution and resist the virus, one should start with the spleen and stomach."
The importance of boosting one's own vital energy is still fresh in our minds. Recently, the Chinese University of Hong Kong published a research report on the balance of the gut microbiota, pointing out that if the human gut lacks a probiotic called "Bifidobacterium adolescentis," the number of antibodies after vaccination may not reach the expected level. This coincides with the concept of spleen and stomach function in traditional Chinese medicine. Dr. Zhang stated, "Traditional Chinese medicine has discussed this point for thousands of years. 'The spleen governs transportation and transformation, ascends clear qi, and controls blood.' The spleen and stomach are involved in the operation of multiple systems, including digestion, nervous system, metabolism, and immunity. The function of the spleen and stomach can affect the flow of vital energy between organs and is key to maintaining good immune function. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that when the body's resistance is low, it is easy for external pathogens to invade and induce various diseases. However, if the spleen and stomach function is strong, the source of qi and blood production will be sufficient, and the body's own vital energy will be abundant, which can resist the invasion of external pathogens. The internal medicine, acupuncture, and massage therapy in traditional Chinese medicine are all clinical treatments to enhance vital energy."
For variants, enhanced dietary therapy for the elderly, middle-aged and young.
Dr. Chang Yung recommends an "enhanced" diet therapy specifically for people of different ages. He suggests combining it with acupressure to boost immunity and encourages everyone to get vaccinated against the pandemic. As for those who plan to receive booster shots, they should pay attention to getting plenty of rest and avoid smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods. If necessary, they can first use traditional Chinese medicine or acupuncture to help regulate their body condition.
Children's - Chinese Yam, Lotus Seed, and Gorgon Fruit Porridge
Ingredients: 15g yam, 10g fox nuts, 10g lotus seeds, and appropriate amount of rice.
Preparation: Wash all ingredients and place them in a pot with an appropriate amount of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes. Season to taste. This can help strengthen the spleen and replenish qi, and increase immunity.
Adults - Qi-Boosting and Fluid-Generating Tea
Ingredients: 3g American ginseng, 3g Dendrobium officinale, 3g longan pulp, 3g goji berries.
Preparation: Soak all ingredients in an appropriate amount of boiling water for 15 minutes, and drink once a day to replenish qi and promote the production of body fluids.
Elderly - Qi-Boosting and Lipid-Lowering Soup
Ingredients: 5 qian of white-backed wood ear fungus, 5 qian of white hyacinth bean, and Codonopsis pilosula. 5 qian (approximately 15 grams) of raw Job's tears 5 qian (approximately 15 grams) of wolfberries 1 qian (approximately 3 grams) of hawthorn, 3 qian (approximately 1 3 qian, roasted malt 3 qian, 1 red date, 3 qian of longan pulp.
Preparation: Wash all ingredients, bring to a boil over high heat with an appropriate amount of water, then simmer over low heat for two hours. Season to taste. This dish is beneficial for strengthening the spleen and replenishing qi, as well as reducing stagnation and lowering lipids.
Note: Consult a doctor before drinking.
Acupressure enhances immunity
Zusanli: On the anterolateral aspect of the lower leg, three inches below the lateral knee eye (Dubi), one finger-width (middle finger) lateral to the anterior border of the tibia.
Efficacy: Regulates the spleen and stomach, harmonizes the intestines and eliminates stagnation, clears heat and dampness, and strengthens the body's resistance.
Sanyinjiao: On the inner side of the leg, 3 inches above the tip of the medial malleolus, in the depression behind the medial border of the tibia.
Efficacy: Tonifies the spleen and aids digestion, clears stagnation in the lower abdomen, regulates blood and essence, and dispels wind and dampness.
Quchi: The lateral end of the elbow crease, at the midpoint of the line connecting Chize and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.
Efficacy: Dispels pathogenic heat, eliminates wind and dampness, and regulates qi and blood.
Hegu (LI4): Located on the back of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, at the midpoint of the radial side of the second metacarpal bone.
Efficacy: Dispels wind-evil, clears lung qi, harmonizes the stomach and intestines.
Fengchi (GB20): The depression between the outer edge of the upper part of the trapezius muscle and the posterior edge of the upper end of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Efficacy: Dispels wind, relieves exterior symptoms, clears the head and eyes, and benefits the five sense organs and seven orifices.
Note: Press each acupoint once a day, until you feel a slight distending pain.