In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with an organ system. As summer gives way to autumn, the Lungs become the dominant organ.
This seasonal transition is important because the Lungs are particularly sensitive to dryness. After the heat and activity of summer, the body can become slightly depleted of fluids. When autumn arrives with cooler, drier air, this can manifest as:
Dry skin
Dry cough or throat
Fatigue
Increased susceptibility to colds
Sinus or respiratory sensitivity
From a Chinese medicine perspective, this is known as Autumn Dryness affecting the Lung system.
Supporting the Lungs during this seasonal change helps maintain immunity, healthy skin, and respiratory health.
Why the Lungs Are So Important in Chinese Medicine
In Chinese medicine, the Lungs are known as the “delicate organ.”
They play an essential role in:
Governing Qi (energy)
Controlling the skin and body hair
Regulating fluids in the body
Supporting the immune system (Wei Qi)
This is why skin issues, allergies, eczema, and dryness often relate to Lung health in Chinese medicine.
When the Lungs are nourished and hydrated, the body is better able to defend against seasonal illness and maintain healthy skin.
A Simple Lung-Supporting Tea for Early Autumn
A gentle way to support Lung health is through warming and moistening herbal teas.
This tea helps to nourish Yin, moisten dryness, and support respiratory health.
Lung Nourishing Autumn Tea
Ingredients
2–3 slices fresh pear
1 teaspoon goji berries
2 red dates (jujube), lightly crushed
Small slice fresh ginger
300–400 ml hot water
Instructions
Place ingredients in a cup or teapot.
Add hot water.
Cover and steep for 10 minutes.
Drink warm.
You can drink this tea once daily during the seasonal transition.
Why These Ingredients Work
Pear
Pears are traditionally used in Chinese medicine to moisten the Lungs and relieve dryness.
Goji berries
Nourish Liver and Kidney Yin, helping replenish fluids after summer heat.
Red dates (Jujube)
Strengthen Qi and digestion, helping the body absorb nourishment.
Ginger
Supports digestion and circulation while balancing the cooling nature of pear.
Together, this tea gently supports Lung moisture while strengthening overall Qi.
Other Ways to Support the Lungs in Autumn
In addition to herbal tea, Chinese medicine recommends:
Eat moistening foods
Good seasonal foods include:
Pears
White fungus
Honey
Almonds
Tofu
Sesame seeds
Avoid excessive dryness
Limit:
Excess coffee
Alcohol
Very spicy foods
Dehydration
Support Lung Qi with breathing
Gentle breathing exercises, walking in nature, and mindful breathing help strengthen the Lung system.
When to Seek Personalised Chinese Medicine Care
If you experience ongoing symptoms such as:
Persistent dry cough
Recurrent colds
Fatigue or breathlessness
A personalised consultation may help address the underlying imbalance.
Chinese medicine treatments may include:
Dietary therapy
Lifestyle adjustments
These approaches aim to restore balance rather than simply suppress symptoms. If you would like personalised herbal advice or a consultation, telehealth appointments are available.