Are Sanfu patches effective for treating colds in children?

Aug 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

If a child has a cold-deficient constitution, frequently experiences recurrent colds, and exhibits symptoms such as cold intolerance, clear nasal discharge, and easy fatigue, the Sanfu Patch (three伏贴), which stimulates acupoints using warming medicines, can help strengthen the constitution, improve resistance, and reduce the frequency of colds. However, if the child is currently in the acute phase of a cold, presenting symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, yellow nasal discharge, or if the cold is caused by a viral infection, etc.,

Generally, Sanfu Patch (Three伏贴) may have a certain regulatory effect on recurrent colds in children caused by a cold-deficient constitution, but it has limited effectiveness for acute colds or other types of colds. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If a child has a cold-deficient constitution, frequently suffers from recurrent colds, and exhibits symptoms such as cold intolerance, clear nasal discharge, and easy fatigue, the Sanfu Patch, by stimulating acupoints with warming herbs, may help strengthen the constitution, improve resistance, and reduce the frequency of cold episodes.

If a child is currently experiencing an acute cold with symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, or yellow nasal discharge, or if the cold is caused by a viral infection, the Sanfu Patch cannot relieve current symptoms. Using it blindly may even worsen discomfort, and timely targeted treatment should be sought instead.

When applying the Sanfu Patch to children, ensure their skin tolerance and avoid excessive application time. If redness, itching, or worsening cold symptoms occur after application, remove the patch immediately and seek medical evaluation.

View All

What should be done if a child with a cold experiences recurring fever?

In general, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Recurrent fevers in children with colds may be caused by underdeveloped thermoregulatory centers, poor heat dissipation, upper respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, or other reasons. Prompt medical attention is recommended, and treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. It is also important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits and strengthen physical exercise during daily life.

View Full Answer

What Fruits Should Children Eat for a Cold or Cough?

In general, when children have a cold or cough, they can consume moderate amounts of fruits such as pears, oranges, grapefruits, loquats, and blueberries. During treatment and recovery, it is recommended that parents encourage children to eat more foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to enhance immune function. At the same time, it is advisable to avoid excessive intake of greasy, spicy, and irritating foods, which may irritate the respiratory tract.

View Full Answer

Should children's cold medicine be taken before or after meals?

Whether children's cold medicine should be taken before or after meals depends on the drug's ingredients. Medications with mild components that do not irritate the gastrointestinal tract can be taken half an hour before meals, such as Children's Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, and Artificial Cow-bezoar Granules. If the ingredients may irritate the digestive tract and cause diarrhea or abdominal pain, it is recommended to take them half an hour after meals, such as medications containing aspirin or paracetamol.

View Full Answer

What medications can children take for colds and fever?

In general, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Determining which medication to administer to a child with a cold and fever depends on identifying the underlying cause, common examples of which include dysregulation of body temperature control, physical activity and emotional excitement, acute upper respiratory tract infection, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia. If symptoms persist or cause concern, prompt medical attention is recommended. Encouraging children to develop healthy lifestyle habits and regularly ventilating indoor spaces are also important preventive measures.