Can Gegen Decoction be used to treat influenza A?
Mar 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, "Jia Liu" (A-type flu) refers to influenza A. Ge Gen Tang (Kudzu Root Decoction) can be used for influenza A under certain conditions. In daily life, one should try to avoid going to crowded places with poor air circulation. If necessary, it is recommended to wear a mask. Pay attention to personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching the eyes, mouth, and nose with hands, and reduce the chances of viral infection.
Generally, the dosage forms of Gegen Tang include tablets, granules, etc., and "Jia Liu" refers to influenza A. Gegen Tang can be used to treat influenza A under certain conditions. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Gegen Tang has the functions of inducing perspiration to relieve exterior syndrome and promoting body fluid production to relax the muscles. Its ingredients, including Pueraria root (Gegen), ephedra (Mahuang), and cinnamon twig (Guizhi), work synergistically to alleviate symptoms caused by influenza A, such as fever, headache, chills, and absence of perspiration. Pueraria root can relieve muscle fever, promote body fluid production, and quench thirst; ephedra and cinnamon twig can induce perspiration and relieve exterior syndrome, helping to dispel pathogenic factors from the body surface. Therefore, Gegen Tang has certain therapeutic effects in alleviating symptoms of influenza A and promoting recovery.
However, Gegen Tang cannot directly kill the influenza A virus. It primarily regulates the circulation of qi and blood and enhances organ function, thereby improving the body's resistance to assist in fighting the influenza A virus. When using Gegen Tang to treat influenza A, it should be administered under a doctor's guidance, as the dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on individual differences in constitution and condition.
In daily life, it is advisable to avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places as much as possible. If necessary, wear a mask. Maintain personal hygiene by washing hands frequently, avoid touching the eyes, mouth, and nose with hands, and reduce the risk of viral infection.
