There are actually three types of Qi that play important roles in the strength of our immune function:
These are your Wei Qi, Ying Qi, and Yuan Qi.
We talked about Wei Qi in our previous article and referred to it as the “castle walls…”
It works by protecting us from the elements (i.e. wind, cold, rain) and blocks harmful viruses and bacteria, that are often present in our environment, from getting inside.
Getting out for a walk and regular exercise builds healthy Wei Qi.
However, even when your Wei Qi is strong, it is still very possible for outside invaders to get past it’s defences.
This is why having a strong Ying and Yuan Qi are equally important.
These are your inner defences.
Ying Qi is our protective energy that we get from our diet. In other words, the Qi that is derived from what we eat and what we drink.
A healthy diet is essential to a healthy immune system.
To keep your Ying Qi healthy, you’ll want to prepare meals with fresh fruits and vegetables, locally grown if possible.
Yuan Qi is energy that comes from the kidneys that helps everything circulate through our bodies.
This energy is vital to unlocking the Ying Qi, allowing your body to use the energies from the food you eat and allow them to circulate through the body.
You can build up Ying Qi from getting enough rest through a proper night’s sleep.
Having a healthy balance of Ying Qi and Yuan Qi is key to a balanced immune system that can keep you safe from the invaders trying to attack your “castle.”
When these systems are also in balance, your body is able to handle the invaders once they get in.
You can think of your immune system like an army defending your castle.
When it’s well nourished and properly balanced, it will have the strength to ward off any unlucky invader who makes their way into your body.
All three types of Qi need to be in balance to support
proper immune function.
In Classical Chinese Medicine, there are many individual herbs that nourish the Qi vital to keeping your immune system functioning as it’s supposed to.
Some specifically boost the Wei Qi, keeping pathogens out in the first place!
Astragalus is one of the more frequently used Chinese herbs. It is used to tonify the Wei Qi, fortifying the lungs.
Astragalus helps the body fight off external pathogens.
- Supports the immune system
- Provides quick energy
- Helps digestive function
Additionally, by directly supporting the Lung and Spleen organs in the body, you derive and maximize energy from the foods you eat and the air you breathe.
Cordyceps is also widely regarded as a supreme immunity enhancer.
It has the ability to help the body resist external pathogens. It supports Lung Qi and increases Lung power for those who may have compromised Lung function.
It is a balanced tonic herb that strengthens the Kidneys, tonifies Yang, nourishes Lung Yin, and strengthens Lung capacity.
Both formulas are immune boosting super stars.
Be well,
Dr. George
