Sanfu and Sanjiu Herbal Patches: Working With the Seasons to Warm a Cold Constitution
Every year, during the hottest days of summer and the coldest days of winter, you'll see people at TCM clinics with small herbal patches on their backs. These are Sanfu and Sanjiu patches — a form of external therapy known as "heavenly moxibustion."
What Are Sanfu and Sanjiu Patches?
In short: during the peak of summer's yang energy (Sanfu days) or the depths of winter's cold (Sanjiu days), herbal cakes made from warming medicinal herbs are applied to specific acupoints. The herbs penetrate through the skin into the meridians, dispelling cold and dampness, boosting yang energy, and helping regulate the immune system.
This reflects the TCM wisdom of "treating winter diseases in summer, preventing summer diseases in winter": conditions that flare up in cold weather — allergies, asthma, frequent colds — are best addressed when summer's yang is at its strongest, while the cold-damp accumulated in summer gets extra attention during winter's coldest days.
Who Benefits?
Allergic rhinitis: congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose
Respiratory sensitivity: frequent colds, asthma, chronic bronchitis
Cold constitution: cold hands and feet, weak digestion, tendency toward loose stools
Menstrual cramps or back soreness triggered by cold
Who Should Be Cautious?
Those with sensitive skin, children under two, pregnant women, anyone with acute fever or infection, or those vaccinated within the past week should consult a practitioner first.
Aftercare
A warm or mildly tingling sensation during application is normal — it means the herbs are working. If you notice significant redness, swelling, or stinging, remove the patch early. During the treatment period, avoid cold and raw foods, sweets, fried foods, and common allergens; skip hot baths and swimming for the time being.
Can It Be Combined With Herbal Medicine?
Pairing external patches with internal herbal formulas often gives better results. Since every constitution is different, discuss it with your practitioner to decide what's right for you.