Can Emphysema Be Cured by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and How Is It Treated?

Emphysema is a relatively harmful condition that poses significant risks to patients’ health and severely impairs quality of life. Prompt treatment is therefore essential. Can traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) effectively treat emphysema, and if so, how?

Can Emphysema Be Effectively Treated with Traditional Chinese Medicine—and How?

Patients with emphysema can be successfully treated with herbal medicine, guided by TCM pattern differentiation based on tongue appearance and pulse characteristics. Treatment strategies vary depending on the specific syndrome type. For instance, in cases where wind-cold invades the lungs, San’ao Pian (Three-Relief Tablets) and Zhisou Fen (Cough-Relieving Powder) are commonly prescribed. Typical herbs include Ephedra (Ma Huang), Apricot Seed (Xing Ren), White Front (Bai Qian), Aster Root (Zi Wan), Schizonepeta (Jing Jie), Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), and Stemona Root (Bai Bu). In cases of exterior cold with interior heat, Xiao Qing Long Tang (Minor Blue Dragon Decoction) is indicated. Commonly used herbs in this formula include Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi), White Peony Root (Bai Shao), Ephedra (Ma Huang), Dried Ginger (Gan Jiang), Asarum (Xi Xin), Pinellia Rhizome (Ban Xia), and Schisandra Fruit (Wu Wei Zi).

If you have been diagnosed with emphysema, the first step is to consult a physician at a hospital. Subsequently, appropriate medications should be selected according to disease severity—such as long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs), anticholinergic agents, or inhaled corticosteroids—to help control disease progression. Additionally, pulmonary rehabilitation—including deep breathing exercises, diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing, pursed-lip breathing, inspiratory muscle training—and moderate physical activity can significantly enhance lung capacity.

Patients are advised to prioritize adequate rest, avoid overexertion, dress appropriately to maintain warmth according to weather changes, and take precautions against colds and respiratory infections. We hope this information proves helpful to you.