To prevent loss of contact, please follow our backup public account.

[Disclaimer] The images and text are sourced from the internet. If there is any infringement, please contact us for removal!

Note: The audio is read by a robot; the experience may not be satisfactory. Those with high demands may choose not to listen; we apologize for this.

Source: Yi Jian Jing Fang

Exogenous diseases have been debated for over 2000 years. One school focuses on cold damage (Shang Han), while another emphasizes warm diseases (Wen Bing), leading to endless arguments. Now, from a clinical perspective, there is no need for such debates. When encountering cold damage, treat according to the six channels of cold damage; when facing warm diseases, treat according to warm disease principles, considering Wei Qi, Ying, and Blood, as well as the upper, middle, and lower Jiao.

Everything should start from clinical practice, and we should avoid excessive debate. The characteristic of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is that it often leads to theoretical discussions, resulting in hundreds of books that mislead students. After I expressed this view, an elder asked me, “Old Shen, it’s easy for you to say, but how do you differentiate exogenous diseases?”

I had long prepared for such questions. I said, “How do you distinguish exogenous diseases?” I replied, “It’s simple.” There are four indicators to differentiate between wind-cold and wind-heat:

The first is the tongue and pulse, which are crucial.If the tongue coating is thin and white, and the pulse is floating and tight, that indicates wind-cold. This is the key. If you see a thin white coating and a floating tight pulse, it is wind-cold; if the coating is thin and yellow, and the pulse is floating and rapid, it indicates wind-heat. This is the easiest to differentiate. When examining exogenous diseases, if the pulse is floating and rapid, and the tongue coating is thin and yellow, it is wind-heat; if the coating is thin and white, and the pulse is floating and tight, it is wind-cold. This is the first indicator.The second indicator is based on cough and phlegm.Exogenous diseases primarily affect the lungs, so patients will definitely exhibit cough and phlegm. Of course, when discussing phlegm, we should not differentiate by color but by quality.If the cough produces thin or foamy phlegm, it indicates wind-cold, regardless of whether it is yellow or white; if the phlegm is thick and sticky, regardless of color, it indicates wind-heat. This is easy to distinguish! When patients cough, just ask them if the phlegm is thin or thick; thin indicates wind-cold, and thick indicates wind-heat, making it easy to identify.The third indicator is based on sweating and pain.Sweating and pain! If there is no sweating, and the patient has a headache or joint pain, it indicates wind-cold; if there is sweating and a sore throat, it indicates wind-heat.This is also easy to differentiate! The location of the pain and whether the patient is sweating can be determined with a simple question.The last indicator is based on cold and heat.

Cold and heat:If the patient is heavily afraid of cold and has a mild fever (below 38.5 degrees), it is definitely wind-cold; if they are slightly afraid of cold but have a high fever (above 39 degrees), it is wind-heat.

These four criteria clearly distinguish between wind-cold and wind-heat. Especially the tongue coating and pulse provide a clear differentiation for exogenous diseases. If it is wind-cold, treat with warming and dispersing methods; if it is wind-heat, treat according to warm disease principles, considering Wei Qi, Ying, Blood, and the three Jiao, using cooling and dispersing methods. This treatment principle emerges, right?

• For warming and dispersing, we currently do not use Ma Huang Tang (Ephedra Decoction). I have mentioned: We use Jing Fang Bai Du San (Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder).
• For cooling and dispersing, we still use Sang Ju Yin (Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Decoction) and Yin Qiao San (Honeysuckle and Forsythia Powder).

This clearly distinguishes between wind-cold and wind-heat.However, treating exogenous diseases requires three additional approaches:The first is to dispel pathogens.Exogenous diseases enter through the mouth and nose, invading from the skin surface. If you do not dispel the pathogens, they will not be expelled. It is essential to dispel pathogens.What herbs are used to dispel pathogens?Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum wallichii), Jie Geng (Platycodon grandiflorum), Bo He (Mentha haplocalyx), Chan Yi (Cicada Slough), Sang Bai Pi (Mulberry Root Bark).These dispelling herbs should be used according to the differentiation of wind-cold and wind-heat. For example, use Chuan Xiong for wind-cold and Chan Yi for wind-heat. It is crucial to dispel pathogens! Adding one or two dispelling herbs can significantly enhance efficacy. Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia) can also be used, as it is certainly included in Jing Fang Bai Du San, along with Jing Jie (Schizonepeta). In addition to this, we must consider treating exogenous diseases based on the differentiation of wind-cold and wind-heat to dispel pathogens.Dispel pathogens using the herbs I just mentioned; this is the first measure to enhance efficacy.The second is to promote diuresis.Exogenous pathogens must be promoted to be expelled. What does promoting diuresis mean? It means to promote urination and moisten the intestines. This way, the exogenous pathogens, whether wind-cold or wind-heat, can be expelled. After dispelling, promote diuresis through urination and intestinal moistening.What herbs are used for diuresis?Mainly:Che Qian Cao (Plantago), Ze Lan (Lycopus), Bai Hua She She Cao (Hedyotis), Sheng Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed).These diuretic herbs help expel pathogens through urination.For intestinal moistening, what herbs are used?Use:Lai Fu Zi (Radish Seed), Cao Jue Ming (Cassia Seed), Quan Gua Lou (Trichosanthes), Tao Ren (Peach Kernel).This second method for treating exogenous diseases is called promoting diuresis.The third method is to support the Zheng Qi (Vital Qi).This is what the ancients taught us. Whether it is exogenous or internal pathogens, to eliminate exogenous pathogens, we must support the Zheng Qi. The most representative formula is Shen Su Yin (Ginseng and Perilla Decoction). Of course, I prefer not to use Dang Shen (Codonopsis). Why? Because Dang Shen only tonifies Qi, while Sheng Huang Qi (Astragalus) is better. Sheng Huang Qi can tonify Qi, stabilize the exterior, and expel toxins. It tonifies Qi, stabilizes the exterior, and expels toxins; Sheng Huang Qi is more comprehensive in its effects than Dang Shen. Just add one herb, do not add too much, or you will weaken the pathogens. Alternatively, use Xian He Cao (Agrimonia). Use 15g of Sheng Huang Qi and 10g of Xian He Cao.This is the general principle for treating exogenous diseases.Then, based on whether it is a bacterial or viral infection, adjust the treatment accordingly.

• If it is a bacterial infection, addPu Gong Ying (Dandelion);
• If it is a viral infection, addBan Lan Gen (Isatis root).

The third category is summer-dampness.In this season, colds caused by wind-cold or wind-heat are not obvious; exogenous disease patients have a greasy tongue coating, regardless of whether it is white, thick, or yellow.If the coating is greasy, consider dampness as the primary factor. Do not solely attribute it to wind-heat or wind-cold. There is dampness; at this time, to expel pathogens, you must use the theory of the three Jiao.The first is San Ren Tang (Three Nut Decoction). Use Xing Ren (Apricot Kernel) for the upper Jiao, Cao Ren (Cardamom) for the middle Jiao, and Sheng Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed) for the lower Jiao.Xing Ren, Cao Ren, and Sheng Yi Yi Ren promote diuresis across the three Jiao.

The second is that you must add herbs to clear summer heat. The herbs for clearing summer heat are two:One is Huo Xiang (Agastache).Huo Xiang is a seasonal herb used only in June, July, and August; it is rarely used at other times. It is a seasonal herb for clearing summer heat. I rarely use Pei Lan (Eupatorium), as it is not as effective as Huo Xiang; just using Huo Xiang is sufficient.

The second herb for clearing summer heat isLiuyi San (Six-One Powder).Do you know Liuyi San? It consists of Hua Shi (Talc) and Gan Cao (Licorice) in a 6:1 ratio. However, you must wrap Liuyi San in a lotus leaf. The lotus leaf, which blooms in summer, is used. Take 30g of Liuyi San, wrap it in a lotus leaf, tie it with string, and poke holes in the lotus leaf with a needle. This is also a very good remedy for clearing summer heat and treating exogenous diseases.

Thus, the entire discussion on exogenous diseases is clarified, primarily distinguishing between wind-cold and wind-heat. Adding the methods of dispelling pathogens, promoting diuresis, and supporting the Zheng Qi, while paying attention to summer-dampness, will generally suffice for treating exogenous diseases.

This is how it is in clinical practice, and it is particularly effective.However, do not simply follow Western medicine’s antiviral treatments; that will not work. Especially for those with a greasy tongue coating, antiviral treatments are even less effective. Adding Ban Lan Gen is sufficient; absolutely do not use Guan Zhong (Cynanchum), as it is particularly bitter and cold, harming the stomach.

Of course, I also mentioned children; for children with colds, regardless of the season, do not forget to use Bao He Wan (Preserving Harmony Pill) to regulate digestion and the stomach; this is the key to enhancing efficacy.

Thus, for exogenous diseases, internal injuries, deficiency and excess, wind-cold, wind-heat, and summer-dampness, what is difficult? It is not difficult. Therefore, TCM is particularly simple when I explain it. The diagnosis is based on the tongue; thin coating indicates kidney adjustment, while greasy coating indicates phlegm and blood stasis treatment. For exogenous diseases, clarify the four main symptoms. Dispelling pathogens, promoting diuresis, and supporting the Zheng Qi. You can say it is 70-80% effective.

But as a doctor, you must pay attention; do not let your head get hot and think your efficacy is good; that is a mistake. Patients who return for follow-up are effective; those who are ineffective do not return. You should have already considered that those patients who do not return indicate that your skills are not 100%. You must continue to study. Additionally, do not boast about yourself; be humble.

Highlights from the article

Those who can control their emotions do not lack a sense of security.

Inamori Kazuo: When I leave this world, I hope to take with me a purified and noble soul.

Do you always get angry with those close to you? Perhaps it is because you cannot say, “I need you.”

Stanford psychology professor: In the face of stress, besides avoidance and enduring, you have a third choice.

The principles of health preservation must be fully explained: nurturing the body, nurturing the heart, and nurturing life.

Li Ke: Why can tumors still spread after surgery? Protecting the stomach Qi is the primary principle.

Huang Huang explains: The Da Chai Hu Tang (Major Bupleurum Decoction) for reducing belly fat.

The Great Food Doctor – 16 – Through five major exams by Sun Simiao, Meng Shen was accepted as a disciple.

The Medical Sage’s five methods for treating “heart obstruction” – how to use them clinically?

Zhang Xichun: Huoluo Xiaoling Dan – Treating Qi and Blood stagnation, internal and external sores, and pain in the heart and abdomen.

What kind of Chinese medicine is Xian Ling Pi (Epimedium) for tonifying the kidney and strengthening yang?

The secrets of fetal breath and entering meditation.

Your free time determines the height of your life.

Consider the world as a mirror to refine your spirit.

When your heart begins to be unsettled, do not speak or make any decisions.

The secret of cultivation: it is not about complexity but about returning to innocence.

Nan Huai Jin: The true meaning of dedication.

Master of Classical Formulas Hu Xishu: Discussing the treatment of pneumonia and exogenous diseases.

Exogenous wind-cold experience formulas work faster and better than Western medicine infusion, usable in all seasons.

Acute leukemia mostly belongs to Yin deficiency and exogenous pathogens; TCM only treats exogenous diseases, which is not difficult | Zhang Shengbing.

This one formula has greatly increased my confidence in treating exogenous fever, making me invincible all winter.

Exogenous diseases are easy to treat, while internal injuries are difficult to adjust (from Feng Shui, Ba Zi discussing TCM) [Essence].

Master of Classical Formulas Hu Xishu: Discussing the treatment of pneumonia and exogenous diseases.

Wang Sijin’s lecture on classical formulas – 49 – The method of solidifying the source and tonifying the kidney; Gua Lou and Xie Bai Tang; Exogenous Tianxing Liu Shen Fang.

For colds caused by exogenous fever, just take this formula.

Overview of wind diseases – Discussion on complications of wind pathogen colds | Huang Chengyi.

Modern natural science thinking and language interpreting ancient TCM – Wind-cold colds | Teacher Tong Ren.

So-called allergic rhinitis is just an unresolved cold of the Shang Han type.

Teacher Ni Haixia’s experience summary – Kitchen foods for treating colds.

Understanding colds in TCM, warning against the rampant “health preservation” and anti-“knowledge” allergies | San Shen Dao Ren.

Cold article – Dr. Li Zong’en discusses 21 essential pediatric TCM knowledge for raising children.

Complete guide to summer colds and summer-damp colds.

How to treat residual nasal congestion and runny nose after a cold?

Using these formulas throughout the winter, treat one cold at a time, and there is no cold that cannot be resolved.

For all cold treatments, check these Chinese patent medicines before going to the pharmacy to avoid expensive and inappropriate options.

Medical enthusiast Wang Guangbo: Having treated colds and cancers, he has never given up on learning.

[Commonly Used Medicine] For children’s colds, a must-have medicine for mothers (Children’s Chai Gui Fever-Reducing Granules).

To judge whether a TCM practitioner can treat diseases, see if they can treat colds.

These 25 types of cold medicines can be selected based on symptoms.

Many cases that were originally just colds were misdiagnosed as “serious diseases” and were mismanaged, or light diseases were treated as serious ones.

Master Guo Shengbai’s unified formula: Whether it is wind-cold, wind-heat colds, Gui Zhi Tang syndrome, Ma Huang Tang syndrome, Ge Gen Tang syndrome, warm disease colds, or hand-foot-mouth disease… all can use the enhanced dispelling pathogens decoction.

30 years and 100,000 patients, whether it is fever or chills, cold colds, tonsillitis, or unknown fevers, all have remarkable effects.

An old TCM practitioner in Hunan recommended three cold medicines that many people keep at home.

Why do 99.99% of people need to use Gui Zhi Tang after catching a cold?

Keep Wu Hu Tang at home, and there is no need to panic about colds (diet therapy).

Learn about Chinese patent medicines daily – Sang Ju cold tablets.

Household treasures for dealing with colds.

Minutes to treat colds – Ni Haixia explains colds from a TCM perspective.

My TCM internship story – 138 – Xiao Qing Long Tang for treating cough after a cold.

Teach you how to treat cold and aplastic anemia patients.

Repeated colds: My experience fighting alongside patients with blood diseases.

My TCM internship story – 100 – Using ginger to treat colds.

Learning from my mentor daily – 164 – Cases of recurrent colds and heart pain.

Learning from my mentor daily – 161 – Cases of recurrent colds and heart pain.

Zhao Shaoqin: Detailed differentiation and treatment of colds.

This is how TCM treats children’s colds.

Quickly and effectively treat colds, nasal congestion, and fever; it’s amazing! Hurry and learn! | Lin Jie.

Precise TCM guidance for colds.

What to do about residual cough after a cold? Roasted oranges and pear with Chuan Bei, suitable for both children and adults.

About the scam of anti-cold medicines.

Why can TCM use Shang Han Lun to treat colds effectively with just one dose?

Xiong Jibai: Discussing a seemingly minor illness – the cold.

Are you still proud of not catching a cold for a long time? The truth will make you cry.

Physiological characteristics of children – Discussing pediatric TCM knowledge – Luo Dalun – covering children’s colds, fevers, vomiting, diarrhea, bedwetting, cough, etc.

Super practical, medication and combined treatment plans for summer-damp colds!

Emergency cold remedies, if you really want to try treating a cold yourself.

Effective prescriptions from Shang Han Lun for treating various colds and fevers (collect this) [Ni Haixia].

Old TCM practitioners in Taiwan – Ten essential remedies for every family.

Luo Dalun: Do we have to learn Western medicine to treat colds without medication? Have we forgotten our ancestors’ “effective medicines”?

Luo Dalun: When a cold strikes, I will tell you a foot-soaking remedy.

Zhang Butao: Cold – Cough – Fever – Insomnia – Acne – Dizziness.

The truth about health: Not catching colds for a long time = good health?

Ni Haixia: Eight major classical formulas for treating colds.

Uncovering the scam of Western medicine in treating colds | Taking cold medicine not only fails to cure but can also cause illness.

Jiang Erxun answers: Why use Xiao Chai Hu Tang for those with deficiency and colds?

Treatment methods for cough.

Reflections on two cases of cold in the later stages, one successful and one failed.

For coughs lasting over three weeks, TCM is more effective than Western medicine!

[Famous Doctor] Deng Tietao: One prescription cured the cough of 50 people.

Zhang Zhiyuan: Treatment experience for common pediatric diseases (fever, cough, loss of appetite, diarrhea).

Er Chen Wan, used as a base for those with deficiency! For gastrointestinal discomfort and excessive phlegm, use it to improve.

Do you know that different coughs require different Chinese medicines?

Does fever really damage the brain? 90% of people are mistaken…

Fever may be the body’s own response to healing (do not fear fever; fear not being able to generate it).

Colds and fevers are the body’s way of detoxifying.

========== END ==========

Warm Reminder: This platform shares health-related graphic and text information for reference and learning only, and it is not a basis for medical diagnosis. If needed, please use under the guidance of a physician.

⊙ Copyright Statement: The article is sourced from the internet; please contact us for removal if there is any infringement.

Better to have medicine gathering dust on the shelf than to wish for a world without suffering!

As a parent, not knowing medicine is unkind! As a child, not knowing medicine is unfilial!

Can’t find a good TCM practitioner? Why not learn TCM yourself!

In the menu of this account, there is a complete introductory series and video series. Everyone is welcome to learn.

Learning ancient TCM, inheriting the classical formulas of Shang Han Lun.

Virtue carries all things! Grass, wood, metal, and stone can only remove physical ailments; cultivating oneself and nurturing virtue is the way to dispel inner demons!

Wishing: May the world be harmonious, the sun and moon be clear; rain and wind be timely, disasters do not arise; the country be prosperous and the people safe, weapons be useless; virtue be exalted and kindness flourish, and etiquette be practiced; the country be free of thieves, and grievances be resolved; the strong do not bully the weak, and everyone finds their place; no one suffers from illness, and all enjoy wealth and health; longevity and good virtue, starting and ending well.