Is it effective to drink traditional Chinese medicine for treating novel coronavirus infection?

Generally speaking, taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be helpful for individuals infected with the novel coronavirus, but medication use must follow medical advice. The specific analysis is as follows:

TCM is commonly used in the treatment of novel coronavirus infection. For symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue, TCM can help clear the lungs and eliminate toxins, promote lung function, strengthen the body's defenses, regulate organ functions, and improve immune status. For example, herbal formulas like Qingfei Paidu Decoction can remove phlegm-dampness and internal toxins, restoring normal lung function. Formulas such as Jingfang Baidu San can help relieve airway spasms and swelling, achieving an anti-asthmatic effect. Additionally, certain TCM products like Lianhua Qingwen Capsules can suppress excessive activation and release of inflammatory factors, alleviating discomforts such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. Ingredients in these formulations—such as gypsum and isatis root—also possess antiviral properties that effectively inhibit viral replication, thereby slowing disease progression.

Although TCM plays a certain supportive role in treating novel coronavirus infection, it cannot directly combat the virus. Therefore, during treatment, patients should undergo comprehensive therapy under the guidance of a physician. At the same time, they should maintain healthy lifestyle habits and ensure adequate rest.