Asian Journal
Of Traditional Medicines

Abstract: “Yi” is defined in traditional Chinese medicine theory as the general pathological conditions of epidemics. Throughout thousands of years of history, TCM has been playing an essential role in preventing and treating epidemics in China. Showing significant efficacy against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2002 and 2003, a medical intervention involving TCM was applied at the beginning of the pandemic of the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and has been found with good preventive and curative value in clinical practice. In this study, the etiology and pathogenic mechanism of COVID-19 was discussed on a TCM theory basis, and the clinically effective prevention and treatment methods/prescriptions were summarized. It is suggested that TCM has been playing a unique and vital role in preventing and treating COVID-19, and thus contributes greatly to public health.

Key words: traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), COVID-19, etiology, treatment, prevention