whenever there is Phlegm as they are better than acupuncture at resolving Phlegm. Acupuncture
on its own gives particularly good results in the two Liver-related patterns, i.e. Lung-Qi
Obstructed and Liver-Fire insulting the Lungs.
As for prevention, after a successful treatment it is important to take certain preventive measures
so that the breathlessness will not recur.
Diet
A person who has been successfully treated for breathlessness should abstain from eating dairy
foods (milk, cheese, butter, cream, yoghurt, icecream) because these tend to form Phlegm which
easily settles in the Lungs and obstructs breathing. For the same reason, greasy and fried foods
should be kept to a minimum.
It is also best to advise the patient not to eat too much fresh fruit and raw vegetables. Although in
moderation these foods are beneficial, in excess they also tend to form Phlegm and injure Yang.
This advice is particularly important for those patients whose breathlessness was caused by
deficiency of Yang.
Life Habits
Persons who suffered from breathlessness should take great care in protecting themselves
adequately from wind and cold. All too often the dictates of fashion are not conducive to
sensible dressing. Patients who have been suffering from breathlessness should especially take
care to protect the upper back and chest.
Preventive Treatment
Both moxa and herbs can be used to prevent a recurrence of breathlessness.
Indirect moxibustion with garlic can be applied in the summertime at 10-day intervals on the
following three groups of points:
First Group
- Extra-point Bai Lao
(on the occiput one cun below the hairline and one cun from the midline). - BL-13 Feishu