Flu symptoms, digestive problems, and food poisoning are among the most common health issues that anyone can experience. They aren't usually serious, but they can disrupt your day and leave you feeling uncomfortable.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers time-tested remedies that you can keep in your home medicine cabinet for exactly these moments. These are straightforward and accessible solutions that have helped people manage everyday health concerns for centuries.
Whether you're a TCM newcomer or already familiar with herbal medicine, knowing when and how to use these remedies can give you confidence in managing minor health issues at home.
4 TCM remedies for you at home
These are four Chinese herbal medicines to keep in your home cabinet. Each remedy targets specific symptoms, so knowing which one to use will help you get better faster.
Hou xiang zheng qi san (藿香正气散)
This remedy is useful for mild food poisoning with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. It is also recommended for feng han flu (风寒感冒), which causes vomiting and diarrhoea during winter seasons.
This remedy is especially helpful when you've eaten something that didn't agree with you. The formulation works to harmonise your digestive system and ease discomfort.
Xiao chai hu tang (小柴胡汤)
This remedy is helpful when you have the flu with fever and symptoms such as sneezing, sore throat, bitter taste in the mouth, and loss of appetite.
The key is to take it at the early stages, when you first notice a scratchy throat or feel unusually tired. Many people also find it especially effective for managing the flu that comes with both fever and digestive discomfort.
Bao he wan (保和丸)
This works well for indigestion and bloating. It also supports digestion and promotes gut movement.
This remedy gently encourages your digestive system to process food more efficiently, helping relieve that uncomfortable feeling of fullness.
Yin qiao san (银翘散)
You can use this remedy for feng re flu (风热感冒), with symptoms such as sneezing, sore throat, thirst, and fever.
This remedy is most effective when used at the earliest sign of symptoms, before the illness fully develops. It's a popular choice during warmer seasons when this type of flu is more common. The sooner you start taking it after noticing symptoms, the more effectively it can help your body restore balance.
If you're unsure which remedy suits your symptoms or need personalised TCM guidance, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. Our TCM physicians can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.
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How to use these TCM remedies?
These TCM formulations come in both powder and pill forms. If you’re using powder, mix it with some warm water and drink it. The taste can be strong or bitter, so drink more water to flush it away. However, avoid adding honey, as it may affect the remedy’s effectiveness.
For flu remedies, including Xiao chai hu tang and Yin qiao san, you can take them 2-3 times daily until symptoms improve. For digestive remedies such as Huo xiang zheng qi san and Bao he wan, take as needed when symptoms occur. It’s best to follow the recommended dosage indicated in your specific product.
How long do these remedies take to work?
This is one of the most common questions people have when using these TCM treatments.
The effectiveness of these remedies varies depending on what you’re treating and how severe your symptoms are. For example, a fever can usually be managed within 24 hours – a high fever reduced to a mild fever – while indigestion symptoms can ease within two to three hours after taking the herbs.
Your body constitution also plays a role in how quickly you’ll respond. Some people may notice improvement within hours, while others may need more time to feel better. This doesn’t mean the remedy isn’t working; it simply means your body needs a bit more time to rebalance.
If your symptoms aren’t improving or you notice new symptoms appear when you are still taking a remedy, consult your doctor as soon as possible for evaluation.
Are there any precautions?
The herbs generally present no side effects when used correctly. However, if you have never used TCM remedies before, consult a TCM physician first. This is because they can confirm which remedy is most suitable for your specific symptoms and body constitution.
These remedies are usually not recommended for:
Pregnant or breastfeeding women:
Consult your TCM physician first because many herbs can affect your pregnancy or pass through breast milk.
Children under 3 years old:
Young children require carefully adjusted dosing and professional guidance.
People with chronic health conditions or taking multiple medications:
Herbal remedies can interact with your medications.
Always inform both your TCM physician and your doctor about any remedies you're taking, especially if you're on prescription medications.
For personalised guidance on TCM treatments or to ensure you're using the right remedy for your symptoms, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical.
FAQ
Can TCM remedies be taken together with Western medicine?
If you’re taking both TCM remedies and Western medicine, it’s recommended to space them 1 to 2 hours apart to avoid any potential interactions.
Are these remedies safe for children?
Yes, these remedies can be used for children. However, the dosage must be adjusted based on your child's age and weight, as adult doses are too strong for young bodies.
Always consult your TCM physician first to get the right dose for your child and make sure the remedy is safe for them.
How should these herbs be stored at home?
To keep your TCM remedies effective and safe to use, you should:
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture
- Store in tightly sealed containers to prevent moisture and air from entering
Powder forms usually maintain their quality for 2-3 years, while pills may last even longer when properly stored. Always check expiry dates before use, and discard any product if you notice unusual odours, colour changes, or signs of moisture damage.
Can you take these remedies as a preventive measure when you're feeling healthy?
These formulations are usually used to treat specific symptoms and imbalances rather than for daily preventive use. Taking them when you're healthy and balanced might actually create an imbalance in your system.
For prevention and immune system support, consult a TCM physician who can assess your body constitution and recommend personalised approaches that suit you.
Are there any side effects or precautions when using these TCM remedies around children or pets?
For children, always keep remedies out of reach and follow age-appropriate dosing from a TCM physician. You should also avoid giving these remedies to animals, as some herbs that are safe for people can be harmful to pets, especially cats and dogs.
How to prepare and apply each of the four TCM remedies at home?
All four remedies are simple to prepare and use at home.
If you’re using powder:
- Empty one sachet into a cup
- Add about 100-150ml of warm water
- Stir well and drink immediately
For pill form, it’s usually recommended that you take them after food and simply swallow the pills with warm water.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, schedule an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine today.
Physician Jun Negoro
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Thomson Chinese Medicine (TCM Paragon Medical Centre) and 1 other
English, Mandarin
Alliance MediNet
