On Cold Damage

One of the earliest treatises on Chinese Medical Theory (TCM) is the Shanghan Lun,  Treatise on Cold Damage Disorders, compiled by Zhang Zhongjing, at the end of the Han dynasty (~220 AD).  In this work, we are introduced to the invasion of the Microcosm  ̶   the human biofield of linked complementary and inseparable aspects known as Chi & Blood  ̶  by larger external environmental fields, the Macrocosm. More specifically, Cold (Shang), one of the many External Pathogenic Influences (EPIs) known to TCM physicians.

Scientists clearly understand the external thermodynamic driving forces of the Macrocosm in the invasive conditions known as hyperthermia (Heat) and hypothermia (Cold).

As discussed earlier, these are usually acute conditions, presenting initially as fever, followed by muscle aches, tension / pain. Left untreated, the superficial symptoms are followed by tremors, and ultimately, whole body seizures and collapse.

Because of inadequate treatment, i.e., incomplete expulsion, the EPI can become a resident evil. Some contemporary clinicians use evocative terms like worms and demons to speak of chronic and resistant syndromes associated with these resident evils (EPIs).

As the EPIs enter deeper levels of the Body they can become chronic conditions, presenting as general disability and frailty, in the long term.   My research suggests that aging patterns can be linked to unresolved Cold (EPI) induced damage.

 

Shanghan Lun

The Shanghan Lun introduces us to the concept of linked Meridians, channels that contain and carry electrochemical bioenergetic flows (chi) in our bodies.  This framework forms the theoretical basis of acupuncture, and derivative needling practices, like Dry Needling and Medical Acupuncture, performed by medical doctors and other allied Western clinicians.

The herbal formulae found in the Shanghan Lun serve as precepts to this day, a source of guidance to contemporary clinicians on combining selected herbal combinations to address linked and often opposing pathologies present in the body wracked by complex and resistant conditions, often seen in industrial societies today.

Japanese medical doctors (MDs) who practice herbal traditions, known as Kampo medicine, can testify to the elegance and power of the herbal combinations found in the Shanghan Lun.
Kampo medicine is a traditional Japanese system of health + care that utilizes herbal remedies and natural ingredients based on principles developed in ancient Chinese medicine.

On a personal note, I am amazed by the number of Kampo Body <> Mind medicine applications using the Minor Bupleurum Decoction, Xiao Chai Hu Tang , a masterwork of herbal combinations that can be found in the Shanghan Lun.

 

Cold Damp & Cold Dry EPIs

The foundational principles of how Cold combines with other EPIs to create a diverse array of debilitating syndromes that appear resistant to treatment, are not confusing of we look at them from a physical science perspective.

Cold Damp EPI

Many who live in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) of the United States have grown used to dreary aspects of the gray skies with its cold and wet seep (drizzle) that is a familiar in the Winter and Spring months. This environment serves as a perfect example of Damp Cold EPI, an environmental pathogen that can leave us feeling listless and depressed under its influence. Cold and wet air is harder to heat, due to the high specific heat of water. It drains the body’s energy.

Warming herbal combinations, used both as foods and internal medicines, and dressing warm are recommended.

Cold Dry EPI

Every PNW winter, over the last few decades, we have had a few weeks of cold and dry weather. For those us who live in thermally controlled environments, the combination of dry and cold air can wreak havoc on the respiratory systems of people on poor health. Cold Dry EPIs, when extended, can also manifest as pathologies of the skin, the tissue associated with the Lung in TCM.

Yin and Body Fluid nourishing herbs, used either as foods (e.g., soups, stews) or in decoctions can help.
Humidifiers cam reduce the density and viscosity of dry air, making it easier to breathe.