Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Detail: These conditions are primarily seen as an invasion of External Wind (Feng) which carries pathogens like Cold or Heat into the body.

Property: Wind is "moving" and "penetrating," typically attacking the upper body and the skin first.

Function: Health depends on Wei Qi (Protective Energy), which circulates under the skin to defend the body.

Diseases & Health: Flu is often Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat. Allergies are seen as a deficiency in Wei Qi rooted in the Lungs or Spleen, causing sneezing and nasal obstruction.

Ayurveda (Indian Tradition)

Detail: Flu and allergies result from a disturbance in Kapha (mucus) and Vata (movement).

Property: Characterized by Sheeta (cold), Guru (heavy), and Chala (mobile) properties.

Function: Resistance depends on Vyadhikshamatva (immunity) and the strength of the digestive fire (Agni).

Diseases & Health: Flu is Vata-Kapha Jvara (fever with chills). Allergies (Pratishyaya) occur when Ama (toxins) clogs the respiratory channels, causing hypersensitivity.

Middle Eastern (Unani & Persian Medicine)

Detail: Caused by a "Distemperament" (Sue-mizaj) where the body becomes excessively Cold and Moist.

Property: Involves an accumulation of pathological Phlegm (Balgham) that the body attempts to expel.

Function: The "Expulsive Faculty" (Quwwat-e-Dafia) works to rid the body of excess moisture and mordant vapours.

Diseases & Health: Flu is a state of Nazla (catarrh). Allergies are viewed as a weakness of the brain temperament, easily irritated by exotic vapours.

African Traditional Medicine

Detail: Flu symptoms are interpreted as a "discord in the atmosphere" or a "shadow on the vital breath."

Property: Seen as a "Heated Breath" or "Internal Shivering" disrupting the coolness of the spirit.

Function: The breath and skin are the primary interfaces with the environment and must remain clear.

Diseases & Health: Illness is described as being "Out of Rhythm" with the seasons. Respiratory distress is a blockage in the Life Force flow when the "internal fence" is weakened.

Indigenous American Traditions

Detail: Viewed as a "disharmony with the Four Winds" or an imbalance of Water and Air elements.

Property: Characterized by "Stagnant Mist" within the chest and head.

Function: Human beings must remain in "Aho" (alignment) with nature; the lungs represent the wings of the soul.

Diseases & Health: Diseases are a "Fog" over the Medicine Wheel. Erratic "Inner Winds" lead to sensitivities and shivering when disconnected from the land.