BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine advises using herbs and traditional Thai medicines to maintain health during the transition from the rainy to the winter season. Common seasonal ailments such as allergies, colds, and respiratory issues can be effectively managed with herbal remedies and nutritious meals.
Dr. Somruk Chuengsaman, Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, on October 19, highlighted that changes in weather can easily affect those with weakened immune systems, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, and fever. He recommended preparing meals with herbs like ginger, galangal, fingerroot, tamarind, and Indian gooseberry, which are rich in sour, bitter, and spicy flavors. For example, Kaeng Som Dok Kae (a sour soup made with tamarind and Sesbania flowers) is a great choice. The sourness from tamarind helps to clear phlegm and soothe the throat, while the spicy ingredients improve blood circulation and keep the body warm.
For those already experiencing illness, Dr. Somruk suggested herbal remedies such as Fah Talai Jone (Andrographis) for fevers, coughs, and sore throats, Indian gooseberry cough syrup for relieving coughs and expelling phlegm, and Prab Chompu Thawip, a traditional remedy for colds and seasonal allergies. These herbal medicines can be found at pharmacies or through consultation with Thai traditional medicine practitioners.
Mr. Somsak Kreechai, Director of the Thai Traditional Medicine Institute, added that during the rainy season, wind energy is a cause of illness, while in winter, water energy plays a role. The body’s internal heat from the rainy season struggles to adjust to the sudden cold, leading to weakened fire energy, making people more susceptible to illness. Those with strong immunity may not experience symptoms, but those with weaker immunity should pay extra attention to their health during this seasonal transition.
Mr. Somsak reiterated that maintaining a balanced diet with sour, bitter, and spicy flavors can help strengthen the body. The spicy herbs in dishes like Kaeng Som Dok Kae improve blood circulation and warmth, while the bitter taste of the Sesbania flowers helps reduce fever. Additional herbs recommended for this season include Indian gooseberry, which soothes coughs and clears phlegm, and Cha Muang for fever and digestive relief. Spicy ingredients like pepper, ginger, galangal, and fingerroot are also ideal for keeping the body warm in colder weather.
As the weather cools and occasional rains continue, the public is encouraged to stay warm, avoid getting wet, drink plenty of clean water, and get sufficient rest. (TNA)
