Traditional Chinese Medicine for Nasal Congestion | Expert Insights from Cheng Mei TCM Clinic, Taoyuan
What causes nasal congestion? Common causes and types

1. External wind-cold or wind-heat
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that when wind-cold or wind-heat pathogens invade the lung's defensive layer, the nasal passages become blocked and breathing is not smooth. This is common when the seasons change.
2. Chronic allergic rhinitis
A weak constitution, insufficient lung qi, or spleen deficiency with excess dampness can lead to recurring nasal congestion and a runny nose. This is common in people with allergies.
3. Deviated septum or nasal polyps
These are structural problems that need Western medical imaging for diagnosis, but TCM can help relieve symptoms by regulating qi and promoting blood circulation.
How does TCM treat nasal congestion? Signature therapies at Cheng Mei TCM Clinic, Taoyuan
1. Treatment based on pattern differentiation
Cheng Mei TCM Clinic classifies each person's constitution into types such as "wind-cold congestion", "wind-heat congestion" and "deficiency-cold congestion", and chooses the matching internal or external treatment.
2. Herbal medicine to address internal causes
Based on the diagnosis, herbs that release the exterior with warmth, open the lungs and clear the nasal passages, or tonify qi and strengthen the spleen are commonly used to adjust the constitution and improve the root cause.
3. Acupuncture and gua sha
Stimulating acupoints such as Yingxiang, Yintang and Fengchi promotes nasal airflow and the circulation of qi and blood, with a clear improvement in chronic nasal congestion and breathing difficulties.
4. Warm nasal compresses and herbal steam
Herbal steam can be used to warm and open the nasal passages, which is especially suitable for people whose congestion is severe at night.
Stuffy nose at night? Tips for easier breathing while you sleep
1. Place a warm towel on your nose before bed
This helps open the nasal passages and promotes blood circulation.
2. Raise your pillow and sleep on your side
This reduces nasal congestion and keeps one nostril open.
3. Use herbal nasal strips or a nasal support device
Combined with TCM treatment, a physical tool that supports the nasal valve, such as Gnasal, can help keep breathing steady at night.
👉 Recommended product: Gnasal Easy Breathe
Further reading: Acupressure for Nasal Congestion: Acupoints Commonly Used in TCM
How to deal with breathing difficulties? Start by strengthening your constitution
1. Strengthen lung qi and spleen-stomach function
TCM says that "the lungs govern qi, and the spleen is the source of phlegm". Improving spleen and lung function is the foundation for better breathing.
2. Avoid triggers
Reducing exposure to dust mites, pollen, cold wind and overexertion helps ease nasal inflammation.
3. Regular treatment and follow-up visits
With treatment follow-ups, prescription adjustments and acupuncture at Cheng Mei TCM Clinic in Taoyuan, your constitution can become more stable, achieving truly "lasting clear breathing without congestion".
Cheng Mei TCM Clinic, Taoyuan | A good choice for people with nasal congestion
Professional team of TCM physicians
Customised prescriptions for your constitution
Traditional medicine combined with modern equipment
Highly rated online
👉 Learn more about clinic services: Cheng Mei TCM
👉 Appointment hotline: 03 463 6100
👉 Address: No. 64, Fude Rd., Zhongli Dist., Taoyuan City 320
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I have to take medicine for nasal congestion?
A: Not necessarily. TCM emphasises treatment based on pattern differentiation, and diet adjustments, acupuncture, gua sha and other methods can all help.
Q: How long does TCM treatment for nasal congestion take?
A: It depends on your constitution. Acute congestion can improve within a week; allergies related to constitution usually need about 1–2 months of treatment.
Q: What can I do about nasal congestion at night?
A: Discuss options such as acupuncture and warm compresses with a TCM physician. Gnasal is a wearable product and has no therapeutic effect. See a doctor if congestion persists.
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