The lingering effects of a COVID-19 infection can include brain fog, a condition characterized by mental fatigue, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners, massaging three key acupoints on the head can help clear brain fog. These methods can effectively enhance brain function when combined with proper exercise and a balanced diet.
Understanding brain fog after COVID-19
The term brain fog has gained significant attention following the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Wenhao Xiao from Dingchang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic in Taiwan explains that this term refers to cognitive impairments such as memory loss, reduced concentration, and slower logical thinking that appear within three months after a COVID-19 infection and persist for at least two months, without being diagnosed as another disease. Fortunately, brain fog is usually temporary and gradually improves over time.
Western vs. traditional Chinese medicine views on brain fog
From a Western medicine perspective, brain fog may be linked to damage to brain nerves and blood vessels caused by viral infections. Studies published in Nature have shown that patients experience a decline in cognitive abilities and a reduced brain volume after contracting COVID-19. Another study found that both acute COVID-19 patients and long-term COVID patients with brain fog exhibited a damaged blood-brain barrier, allowing harmful substances to enter the brain and cause neurological issues.
From a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) viewpoint, brain fog is closely related to the heart and brain. Dr. Xiao explains that in TCM, the heart governs mental clarity and circulation, while the brain is the residence of the mind. After a COVID-19 infection, some patients experience chronic inflammation, leading to weakened heart and lung functions and reduced oxygen supply to the brain, which contributes to brain fog.
Brain fog is not the same as dementia
Many patients experiencing brain fog worry that they may have dementia. Dr. Xiao reassures them by asking: “Do you eventually recall the forgotten information?” If the answer is yes, it is likely a temporary case of forgetfulness, a common symptom of brain fog. In contrast, dementia is an irreversible neurodegenerative disease where patients do not realize they are forgetting things.
3 acupressure points to combat brain fog
Massaging the following three key acupoints can help clear mental fog, boost alertness, and relieve fatigue:
- Shenting (DU-24)
- Location: At the center of the forehead, slightly above the hairline.
- How to Massage: Press firmly with the knuckle of your thumb until you feel a slight tingling sensation.
- Benefits: Clears the mind, relieves fatigue, and enhances mental clarity.
- Yintang (EX-HN3)
- Location: At the midpoint between the eyebrows.
- How to Massage: Gently press your index finger for a soothing effect.
- Benefits: Helps relieve brain fog, insomnia, high blood pressure, and nasal congestion.
- Toulinqi (GB-15)
- Location: Above the eyes, about half a thumb’s width above the hairline.
- How to Massage: Apply firm pressure until you feel an intense relief sensation.
- Benefits: Provides instant mental clarity and refreshes the mind.
Why acupressure works
TCM views acupoints as energy nodes rich in nerve endings and blood vessels. Research suggests stimulating acupoints via acupuncture or massage may enhance cognitive function by promoting neural regeneration and antioxidant activity. However, further clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Additional tips to recover from brain fog
Dr. Xiao advises COVID-19 brain fog patients to pay attention to their diet and physical activity to speed up recovery.
- Stay hydrated: Patients with brain fog often suffer from “Yin deficiency,” meaning their body lacks moisture. In TCM, Yin represents cooling and hydration, while Yang represents warmth and dryness. Drinking plenty of water keeps cells hydrated and supports recovery.
- Eat collagen-rich foods: Foods like yam, okra, and mushrooms are rich in gelatinous nutrients, which help nourish and repair the body.
- Go for walks outdoors: Since COVID-19 can weaken heart and lung function, regular walks outdoors improve circulation and oxygen levels in the brain.
- Try super slow jogging: Regular exercise enhances brain oxygenation and neurotransmitter production. A study by the University of British Columbia found that aerobic exercise can enlarge the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and learning. Dr. Xiao recommends “super slow jogging,” a low-impact exercise done in place with rhythmic movements.
Super slow jogging tips:
- Maintain an upright posture with your chest lifted.
- Step down with your toes first, then your foot arch, then your heel.
- The exercise should feel effortless and comfortable — you should not feel breathless, sore, or exhausted.
- Perform the exercise at least three times per week, for 30 minutes per session, maintaining a heart rate of 130 beats per minute.
Brain fog recovery tea recipe
Dr. Xiao also recommends drinking “Brain Fog Clearing Tea,” which is composed of goji berries, Acorus calamus (sweet flag), and Polygala tenuifolia.
- Goji berries: Nourish the kidneys and replenish Yin, addressing post-COVID dehydration.
- Acorus calamus & polygala tenuifolia: Known for their brain-boosting properties, potentially beneficial for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Precautions:
- Goji berries are not suitable for people with diarrhea.
- Pregnant women, individuals with inflammation, and those with cold symptoms should avoid Acorus calamus and Polygala tenuifolia.
- It’s best to consult a TCM doctor before taking herbal remedies.
By combining acupressure, proper nutrition, hydration, and gentle exercise, individuals can accelerate their recovery from COVID-19-related brain fog and regain mental clarity and focus.
Follow us on X, Facebook, or Pinterest
