Chicken soup and fringe theories

A common cold blew through our home over the weekend.

In the West, chicken soup is just the thing for a cold. Comfort aside (which is worth something), a true Chinese-medicine household wouldn’t let that chicken soup in the door. You deserve an explanation...

(Fringe theory alert)

Every natural object, creature, and phenomenon in the Universe has a Qi nature - in other words, its attributes and mode of behavior resonate with a specific kind of Qi. Some move quickly and change often (Qi of wind). Some flare up easily (Qi of fire). Some hold and store (Qi of water). Etc.

Two things with similar Qi are said to correspond to each other. As such, they strengthen each other, and anything in the Universe with similar Qi strengthens them too.

Chicken has a wind nature - it moves quickly and sporadically, and the rooster's voice cuts through the morning air.

Upper respiratory pathogens also have a wind nature according to Chinese medicine - they “blow” in from the outside and cause change quickly.

Sharing this correspondence, chicken theoretically strengthens an exterior pathogen. Avoid it when sick, lest you make a cold worse or linger.

Do I believe this theory?

I don’t know. It’s not exactly evidence based.

Do I recommend chicken soup for a common cold or flu?

Absolutely not. Cuz what if it’s true..?

P.S. Warm soups in general are excellent for a cold or flu. Use pungent items like scallions, garlic, black or white pepper, leeks, and radishes. Leave out the chicken (and broths made from it). Keep it fairly bland. And after consuming, cover up with a blanket for an hour or so to induce a gentle sweat.