How to Stay Ahead of Summer Colds with Chinese Herbs

Colds are a cold weather problem, right? While they can be more common in the fall and winter, we are just as susceptible to getting sick in the heat of summer!

And there’s nothing worse than coming down with a cold when the sun is shining and everyone else is enjoying the summer season. Summer colds might not get as much attention as winter sniffles, but they’re unique symptoms can be just as annoying, especially when they linger longer than expected.

If you’re someone who always seems to catch something in between spring allergies and fall flus, Chinese herbal medicine offers a natural way to boost your immune system, balance your body, and stay one step ahead of summer colds.

Let’s explore what causes summer colds, how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains this warm-weather phenomenon (and which Chinese herbs can help you prevent and recover from them more quickly).

What Is a Summer Cold?

Unlike winter colds, which are usually caused by being exposed to cold weather or people with seasonal bugs, summer colds are often triggered by a mix of external pathogens and internal imbalances.

They tend to be viral (like the common cold and Covid-19), and symptoms can include:

• Sore throat or dry cough
• Runny nose or sinus congestion
• Body aches or fatigue
• Dry or red eyes
• Headache or low-grade fever
• Digestive upset
• Lingering symptoms that drag on for weeks

One of the key differences with summer colds is how they zap your energy. These colds can feel like they drain your system more slowly and subtly, leaving you feeling “off” for longer than expected.

The Chinese Medicine View of Summer Colds

In TCM, summer colds are often caused by a combination of external wind or heat and a weakened immune system. When your body’s protective energy (wei qi) is weak, you’re more likely to be affected by environmental “stressors” like blasting air-conditioning, sudden weather changes, high humidity, or overexertion in the heat.

There are a few common TCM patterns behind summer colds:

• Wind-Heat Invasion
  This type of cold often starts with a sore throat and yellow mucus, and is usually accompanied by fever, thirst, and sweating. It tends to come on fast and feel more intense, like your body is fighting off something hot and dry.
  
• Wind-Cold Invasion
  This type of cold tends to come with chills, sneezing, a clear runny nose, and body aches. Unlike wind-heat colds, there’s usually no sweating with this kind of summer cold. Instead, it’s the kind of cold that makes you want to curl up in a blanket and rest (even though it’s warm outside).
  
• Summer Heat with Dampness
  This pattern shows up more often in hot, humid climates. You might feel drained, foggy, and a bit queasy, with symptoms like nausea, loose stool, heavy limbs, and fatigue. It’s your body’s way of saying it’s struggling with both heat and dampness.

The key to prevention and fast recovery is to recognize your pattern and use herbs and home care strategies that bring your body back into balance. So, how can you do that?

Chinese Herbs for Preventing and Managing Summer Colds

TCM offers both preventative support and active symptom relief when it comes to summer colds. Here are a few of the most trusted options:

When You Want to Prevent:

When You Have an Active Summer Cold:

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Summer Colds

Chinese herbs are powerful allies, but they work even better when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. Here are a few TCM-approved tips to support your immune system during the summer months:

• Avoid cold drinks and raw foods
  Summer is full of iced drinks, salads, and ice cream. But, these can weaken your digestion (Spleen qi) and create internal dampness. Instead, eat balanced foods that support your body in summer, and try room temperature water or cooling herbal teas like chrysanthemum.
  
• Stay out of the AC draft
  Sudden cold exposure, especially when you’re sweaty, can let external wind in and trigger symptoms. Keep a light scarf or jacket with you when going into places that use high AC (like offices and grocery stores).
  
• Keep your stress in check
  Chronic stress depletes your immunity or “wei qi”, making you more susceptible to catching a summer cold. Take time to rest, meditate, and exercise.
  
• Get enough sleep
  The body recharges and repairs at night – don’t skimp on rest just because the days are longer!

Stay Strong All Season with Chinese Medicine

Summer should be about enjoying the sun, fresh air, and good times. Not stuck inside with a sore throat!

With the right herbal support and a few lifestyle tweaks, you can stay ahead of summer colds and keep your body in balance. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system or recover faster from that lingering cough, Chinese herbs for summer colds can help.

Don’t get dragged down by colds in any season. Explore our top Chinese herbal formulas for immune support and effective, natural cold care.