In Western medicine, the Lung is a respiratory organ. In TCM, it is the chief of defense, governing Qi throughout the body and controlling the skin and pores.
When my TCM teacher explained why people with Lung deficiency catch every cold, everything clicked. The Lung is not just about breathing. It is about your entire protective barrier.
What the Lung Actually Does
1. Governs Qi and Respiration
The Lung extracts Qi from air and combines it with Qi from food to form Zong Qi (Gathering Qi), which feeds the entire body.
2. Controls the Skin and Pores
The Lung determines skin health and controls Wei Qi (defensive energy) that protects from pathogens.
3. Regulates Water Pathways
The Lung distributes fluids throughout the body and excretes waste through sweat and respiration.
4. Opens to the Nose
Nasal health and sense of smell reflect Lung function.
Signs of Lung Deficiency
- Frequent colds and respiratory infections
- Shortness of breath
- Weak voice
- Spontaneous sweating
- Dry skin
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Chronic cough
Lung Yin Deficiency
When Lung Yin is depleted, Heat develops:
- Dry cough
- Thin, scant phlegm
- Dry throat
- Night sweats
- Hoarse voice
Foods for Lung Health
- Pears: Moistens Lung, clears heat
- Honey: Lubricates Lung
- White fungi (Bai Mu Er): Nourishes Lung Yin
- Almonds: Moistens intestines and Lung
- Radish: Clears Lung Heat
- Ginger: For cold-type Lung issues
Lung-Protecting Habits
- Practice deep breathing daily
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
- Dress warmly in cold weather
- Moisturize skin
- Laugh regularly (Laughter moves Lung Qi)
Quick reference:
- Lung Qi deficiency: Weak breath, easy colds
- Lung Yin deficiency: Dry cough, thirst
- Best breathing: Slow, deep, through nose