Author: Wang Zhengxiang
Licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (License No.: 241410926000017) This article is written by Dr. Wang Zhengxiang, based on classical TCM theories and clinical experience, and is intended for popular science reference only. The practitioner's license can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China.
I. Autumn Breezes Bring Coolness, Why Does Nasal Congestion Frequently Occur?
As the autumn wind rises and the weather turns cool, many people begin to experience nasal congestion, forcing them to breathe through their mouths. This is because the autumn wind is dry, which can easily lead to Lung Dryness. When the Lung Qi fails to disperse, it results in nasal congestion.II. TCM Perspective: Lung Dryness and Nasal Congestion
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, the Lung governs Qi and manages respiration. When the Lung is dry, the Lung Qi fails to disperse, and the nasal passages become obstructed, leading to nasal congestion. Furthermore, since the Lung and the Large Intestine are internally-externally related, Lung Dryness can also affect the Large Intestine, potentially causing constipation.III. Following the Meridians with Medicinal Foods to Nourish the Lung and Alleviate Dryness
1. Ingredient A: Pear Pears are cool in nature and sweet in flavor, entering the Lung and Stomach meridians. Pears have the effects of clearing heat, moistening the Lung, promoting fluid production, and quenching thirst. They are suitable for nasal congestion caused by Lung Dryness.2. Ingredient B: Honey
Honey is neutral in nature and sweet in flavor, entering the Lung, Spleen, and Large Intestine meridians. Honey has the effects of moistening the Lung to stop coughs and lubricating the Intestines to relieve constipation. It is suitable for nasal congestion and constipation caused by Lung Dryness.
3. Combination Suggestion
Consuming pears and honey together, such as in pear and honey water or pear and honey paste, can help alleviate nasal congestion caused by Lung Dryness.
IV. TCM Health Preservation for Preventing Nasal Congestion
1. Dietary Adjustments Consume more foods that moisten the Lung and promote fluid production, such as pears, honey, snow fungus (Tremella), and lily bulb (Bai He).2. Moderate Exercise
Engage in appropriate aerobic exercises, such as walking, jogging, or Tai Chi, which can help strengthen Lung function.
3. Maintain a Healthy Routine
Ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late, which helps in the recovery of Lung Qi.
V. Conclusion
A stuffy nose requiring mouth breathing may be caused by Lung Dryness. By applying TCM nourishing and regulating methods, such as adjusting the diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and maintaining a healthy routine, symptoms can be alleviated and nasal congestion can be prevented.References
Original text from *Huangdi Neijing Suwen* can be accessed in the TCM Ancient Literature Database: https://tcmdata.cintcm.com/
WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy: https://www.who.int/health-topics/traditional-complementary-and-integrative-medicine
Official website of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine: https://www.satcm.gov.cn/
Keywords: Lung Dryness, Nasal Congestion, Pear, Honey, TCM Health Preservation
Autumn breezes bring coolness, and nasal congestion occurs frequently. TCM believes that Lung Dryness is the main cause of nasal congestion. This article, from a TCM perspective, introduces the relationship between Lung Dryness and nasal congestion, along with corresponding nourishing and regulating methods to help you relieve the discomfort of nasal congestion.
Related Knowledge Q&A
Q1: What causes nasal congestion in the cool autumn breeze? According to TCM, the cause of nasal congestion must be determined through holistic pattern differentiation, utilizing the four diagnostic methods (inspection, auscultation-olfaction, inquiry, and palpation) and considering the individual's unique constitution. It cannot be generalized. The specific direction for regulation should be determined by a licensed TCM practitioner after an in-person consultation.
Q2: How long does a TCM regulation cycle typically last? The regulation cycle varies from person to person and is related to factors such as the individual's baseline constitution and adherence to lifestyle adjustments. TCM emphasizes gradual progress. The specific duration should be assessed by a licensed TCM practitioner based on the individual's condition during an in-person consultation. This material does not provide a specific commitment to a cycle duration.
Q3: What should be noted in daily life when following the meridian approach to nourish the Lung? For daily care, it is recommended to maintain a regular routine, a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and emotional stability. Specific precautions should be flexibly adjusted according to individual constitution and seasonal changes. It is advisable to consult a licensed TCM practitioner for targeted advice.
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"Article","headline":"Stuffy Nose and Mouth Breathing: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on Nourishing and Regulating the Body","datePublished":"2026-07-24T09:30:46+08:00","dateModified":"2026-07-24T09:30:46+08:00","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Wang Zhengxiang, Licensed TCM Practitioner","url":"https://kezhentang.com/physician/6","description":"Wang Zhengxiang, Licensed TCM Practitioner, License No.: 241410926000017","affiliation":{"@type":"MedicalBusiness","name":"Hangzhou Kezhentang TCM Clinic","url":"https://kezhentang.com"}},"publisher":{"@type":"MedicalBusiness","name":"Hangzhou Kezhentang TCM Clinic","url":"https://kezhentang.com"}}