Haze is a recurring environmental concern in Singapore, particularly when smoke from regional forest and land fires is carried towards the country by prevailing winds. During periods of poorer air quality, some people may experience dry or irritated throats, coughing, nasal discomfort, headaches, eye irritation and general respiratory discomfort.

In September 2026, Singapore experienced another significant haze episode. On 4 September, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) entered the Unhealthy range for the first time due to haze since October 2023. More recently, on 30 September 2026, Singapore’s 24-hour PSI ranged from 91 to 112, covering the Moderate to Unhealthy range.

While reducing exposure to haze remains the most important preventive measure, some Singapore residents may also explore Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a complementary approach for managing discomfort associated with dry airways, irritated throats, nasal symptoms and general wellbeing.

This guide explores TCM haze treatments in Singapore, how TCM traditionally views respiratory discomfort, commonly used approaches such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, and when conventional medical attention should be sought.

Important: TCM should not be regarded as a substitute for appropriate medical assessment or treatment, particularly for breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, chest pain or worsening respiratory symptoms.

Why Does Haze Affect the Body?

The main health concern associated with haze is fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5.

PM2.5 refers to particles measuring 2.5 micrometres or smaller. Because of their extremely small size, these particles can penetrate deeply into the respiratory system.

Singapore’s National Environment Agency states that the health effects of haze depend on several factors, including a person’s health status, the PSI level and the duration and intensity of outdoor activity.

Short-term haze exposure may cause symptoms such as:

Dry or itchy throat
Sore throat
Coughing
Runny nose
Nasal irritation
Eye irritation
Headaches
Respiratory discomfort
Increased symptoms in people with existing respiratory conditions

People with chronic heart or lung conditions can be more susceptible to haze-related effects. Children, elderly people and pregnant women are also regarded as groups that should take additional precautions when air quality deteriorates.

How Does TCM View Haze-Related Discomfort?

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses a different framework from modern biomedical medicine.

A TCM physician does not generally diagnose a patient simply as having a “haze condition”. Instead, the physician considers the person’s overall symptom pattern.

TCM traditionally associates the Lung system with respiration and the body’s interaction with the external environment.

From a TCM perspective, environmental conditions may contribute to patterns involving concepts such as Dryness, Heat, Phlegm and deficiencies of Qi or Yin.

These are traditional TCM concepts rather than biomedical diagnoses.

For example, someone experiencing a very dry throat and dry cough may be assessed differently from someone experiencing nasal congestion with thick phlegm.

This is one reason TCM treatment is usually individualised rather than based solely on the fact that someone has been exposed to haze.

Common Haze-Related Symptoms Seen From a TCM Perspective

1. Dry Throat

One of the most common complaints during hazy conditions is throat dryness.

People may describe:

Persistent thirst
Scratchy throat
Dry sensation when swallowing
Frequent throat clearing
Mild dry cough

TCM physicians may consider whether the person’s presentation resembles a traditional pattern associated with dryness affecting the Lung system.

Treatment would depend on the complete assessment rather than the symptom alone.

2. Dry Cough

Haze particles can irritate the respiratory tract, which may contribute to coughing.

From the TCM perspective, a dry cough without much mucus may be assessed differently from a productive cough containing substantial phlegm.

A TCM physician may therefore ask questions about:

Whether the cough is dry or productive
Colour and consistency of mucus
Whether coughing is worse at night
Whether the throat feels dry
Presence of thirst
Body temperature sensations
Appetite
Sleep
Energy levels

These details help determine the traditional pattern used to guide treatment.

3. Nasal Irritation and Congestion

Some people experience nasal symptoms during haze periods, including:

Runny nose
Blocked nose
Sneezing
Dry nasal passages
Nasal irritation

TCM treatment may involve acupuncture or herbal approaches selected according to the individual’s presentation.

However, persistent nasal symptoms can have many causes, including allergies and infections. Appropriate medical assessment may therefore be necessary if symptoms persist or become severe.

4. Phlegm and Chest Congestion

Some individuals notice increased mucus or chest congestion when air quality deteriorates.

TCM traditionally describes various “Phlegm” patterns.

Importantly, the TCM concept of Phlegm is broader than the biomedical meaning of mucus.

A physician may consider characteristics such as the amount, colour and consistency of mucus alongside other symptoms before determining an appropriate approach.

5. Headaches and Fatigue

Haze-related discomfort is not necessarily limited to the nose and throat.

Some people may experience headaches, tiredness or difficulty concentrating when environmental conditions are uncomfortable.

TCM treatment may therefore focus on the patient’s overall condition rather than treating respiratory symptoms in isolation.

Common TCM Haze Treatments in Singapore

There is no single standardised “haze treatment” within TCM.

Treatment depends on the patient’s symptoms, constitution and the physician’s assessment.

Several approaches may nevertheless be considered.

Acupuncture for Haze-Related Discomfort

Acupuncture is one of the best-known TCM treatment methods.

It involves inserting very fine needles into selected acupuncture points.

For someone seeking support during a haze period, a TCM physician may select points traditionally associated with respiratory function, nasal discomfort, throat symptoms or the patient’s broader constitutional pattern.

Commonly discussed acupuncture points in traditional practice may include points along the Lung, Large Intestine and other meridians.

However, acupuncture point selection should be made by a qualified practitioner rather than through self-treatment.

Treatment plans also vary substantially between individuals.

A person experiencing nasal congestion, for example, may receive a different combination of acupuncture points from someone experiencing primarily throat dryness and coughing.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine is another major component of TCM.

Rather than prescribing one universal “haze medicine”, a TCM physician typically chooses herbs or formulas based on the patient’s particular presentation.

Traditional treatment strategies might focus on concepts such as:

Moistening dryness
Supporting Lung Yin
Clearing Heat
Transforming Phlegm
Supporting Qi
Relieving throat discomfort

The appropriate approach depends on the patient’s symptoms and constitution.

This is important because two people experiencing coughing during the same haze episode may receive very different herbal prescriptions.

Chinese herbal medicines can also interact with conventional medications or be unsuitable for particular individuals. Patients should therefore disclose their medications, supplements, medical conditions and pregnancy status to their healthcare professionals.

TCM Dietary Therapy

Dietary therapy is another traditional component of Chinese medicine.

TCM physicians may provide dietary recommendations according to a person’s constitution and symptom pattern.

During periods of dryness, traditional Chinese dietary practices often emphasise adequate fluids and foods considered moistening.

Regardless of TCM theory, maintaining adequate hydration during haze periods is sensible. Singapore’s Ministry of Health advises members of the public to drink plenty of water during haze conditions.

Dietary therapy should remain supportive rather than replacing appropriate medical treatment.

TCM for Dry Throat During Haze

Dry and irritated throats are among the complaints that can occur during periods of haze.

From a practical perspective, reducing exposure to polluted outdoor air is important.

TCM treatment may additionally focus on the person’s overall pattern of dryness.

A physician may assess whether the patient also experiences:

Dry mouth
Dry cough
Low mucus production
Thirst
Poor sleep
Heat sensations
Fatigue

Based on the assessment, acupuncture, herbal medicine or dietary recommendations may be considered.

The objective is not to physically “remove haze particles” from the lungs. Instead, TCM is better understood as a complementary approach aimed at managing the person’s symptoms and overall wellbeing.

TCM for Cough During Singapore Haze

Coughing is a protective reflex and can have numerous causes.

During periods of poor air quality, airborne particulate matter may irritate the respiratory system.

MOH notes that haze particles may cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and can aggravate existing heart or lung disease.

A TCM physician evaluating coughing may consider whether the cough is:

Dry cough: Little or no phlegm, potentially accompanied by throat dryness.

Productive cough: Significant mucus production.

Persistent cough: Continues even after environmental conditions improve.

Night cough: Symptoms become more noticeable when sleeping.

Because coughing can also indicate infections, asthma and other medical conditions, persistent or severe coughing should be medically evaluated.

TCM for Nasal Congestion During Haze

Air pollution may irritate the nasal passages.

Some individuals therefore seek acupuncture during haze periods for symptoms such as congestion, sneezing or nasal discomfort.

TCM physicians may select acupuncture points around the face as well as points elsewhere on the body according to the person’s overall presentation.

However, people with persistent nasal symptoms should consider whether other factors such as allergic rhinitis, sinus problems or respiratory infections may be contributing.

Can TCM “Detox” the Lungs After Haze Exposure?

Claims that any treatment can simply “detox the lungs” after haze exposure should be treated cautiously.

Haze exposure primarily involves inhalation of airborne pollutants such as fine particulate matter.

There is no simple TCM treatment, herbal drink or acupuncture session that can be said to physically extract PM2.5 particles from the lungs.

A more responsible way to describe the role of TCM is that treatment may be used as a complementary approach for symptom management and general wellbeing.

The primary strategy remains reducing exposure to polluted air.

What Should You Do When Singapore’s PSI Is High?

Singapore uses the 24-hour PSI to communicate overall air quality.

According to MOH:

0–50: Good
51–100: Moderate
101–200: Unhealthy
201–300: Very Unhealthy
Above 300: Hazardous

For healthy individuals, MOH recommends reducing prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion when the PSI reaches the Unhealthy range. At Very Unhealthy levels, prolonged or strenuous outdoor exertion should be avoided. When conditions become Hazardous, outdoor activity should be minimised.

People should also pay attention to Singapore’s 1-hour PM2.5 reading for immediate activities and the 24-hour PSI forecast for planning ahead, as advised by NEA.

Should You Wear an N95 Mask During Haze?

An N95 mask can reduce exposure to fine airborne particles when correctly fitted, but it is not necessary in every haze situation.

MOH states that N95 masks are generally not required for short exposure such as commuting between home and work or school, nor are they generally needed indoors.

Healthy people who need to remain outdoors for several hours when air quality reaches the Hazardous range may consider a properly fitted N95 mask.

Elderly people, pregnant women and individuals with severe lung or heart conditions should consult their doctor about N95 use when appropriate.

TCM treatment should not be considered a replacement for these exposure-reduction measures.

TCM Treatment Alongside Conventional Healthcare

TCM and conventional healthcare do not necessarily have to be treated as mutually exclusive approaches.

Someone experiencing relatively mild discomfort might explore TCM as complementary care while continuing to follow official haze precautions.

People with established conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or heart disease should continue their prescribed treatment.

MOH specifically advises people with chronic heart and lung conditions to keep their medications readily available during haze periods.

Patients should not stop prescribed medication because they have started acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine unless advised by the healthcare professional managing their condition.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Haze symptoms should not automatically be assumed to be minor.

Seek appropriate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:

Significant breathing difficulty
Persistent shortness of breath
Wheezing
Chest pain or tightness
Severe or worsening cough
Symptoms that persist despite reduced haze exposure
Significant worsening of an existing respiratory condition

People with chronic heart or lung disease should take particular care.

MOH advises people who feel unwell—especially children, elderly individuals and those with chronic heart or lung conditions—to seek medical advice.

In an emergency, seek urgent medical assistance rather than relying on complementary treatment.

Choosing a TCM Clinic for Haze Treatment in Singapore

If you decide to explore TCM for haze-related discomfort, choose a properly registered TCM practitioner.

Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners in Singapore are regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board (TCMPB).

During your consultation, provide the physician with an accurate description of your symptoms, including:

When symptoms started
Whether symptoms corresponded with worsening haze
Existing medical conditions
Current medications
Supplements
Allergies
Previous respiratory problems

This information allows the practitioner to make a more appropriate assessment.

How Many TCM Sessions Are Needed?

There is no universal number of treatments required for haze-related discomfort.

Someone experiencing temporary throat irritation may have very different needs from a person with longstanding respiratory or nasal complaints.

Treatment frequency depends on factors including:

Severity of symptoms
Duration of symptoms
Individual constitution
Existing health conditions
Treatment method
Response to treatment

A TCM physician should reassess the patient rather than promising a predetermined number of sessions.

Can Children Receive TCM Treatment During Haze Periods?

Children can be particularly sensitive to poor air quality.

MOH identifies children among the groups that should minimise prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion when the 24-hour PSI reaches the Unhealthy range.

Parents considering TCM for a child should consult an appropriately qualified practitioner experienced in paediatric care.

Children experiencing breathing difficulties, significant wheezing or worsening respiratory symptoms should receive appropriate medical assessment.

Can Elderly People Use TCM for Haze Symptoms?

Older adults may also explore TCM as complementary care, but additional caution may be appropriate because elderly patients are more likely to have existing medical conditions or take multiple medications.

A TCM practitioner should therefore be informed about:

Heart conditions
Respiratory conditions
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Kidney or liver conditions
Prescription medicines
Supplements

This is particularly important when Chinese herbal medicines are being considered.

Prevention Is Still the Most Important Strategy

Whether or not you use TCM, reducing exposure remains one of the most important ways to manage haze-related health risks.

Practical measures include:

Checking Singapore’s PSI and PM2.5 readings
Reducing strenuous outdoor exercise when air quality deteriorates
Spending more time indoors when necessary
Staying adequately hydrated
Keeping doors and windows closed when appropriate
Using suitable air filtration where necessary
Keeping prescribed respiratory medication available
Following MOH and NEA haze advisories

NEA explains that PM2.5 can enter air-conditioned buildings through fresh-air intakes, openings and gaps, meaning indoor air quality should also be considered during significant haze episodes.

Frequently Asked Questions About TCM Haze Treatments Singapore

Can TCM treat haze exposure?

TCM may be explored as complementary care for symptoms or discomfort occurring during haze periods. It does not eliminate exposure to pollutants and should not replace measures designed to reduce PM2.5 exposure.

Can acupuncture help with haze-related coughing?

Acupuncture is traditionally used within TCM for various respiratory and throat-related presentations. Whether it is suitable depends on the individual’s symptoms and assessment. Severe or persistent coughing should be medically evaluated.

Can Chinese medicine help a dry throat during haze?

TCM physicians may use herbal medicine, acupuncture and dietary approaches for presentations involving throat dryness. Treatment should be individualised.

Can TCM clear PM2.5 from the lungs?

There is no established TCM treatment that can simply remove inhaled PM2.5 particles from the lungs. Be cautious about “lung detox” claims.

Should I stop my asthma medication if I receive TCM treatment?

No. People with chronic respiratory conditions should continue prescribed medication unless their treating doctor advises otherwise. MOH specifically recommends keeping necessary medication readily available during haze periods.

Is haze dangerous for healthy adults?

Short-term exposure generally does not cause major health problems in healthy individuals, although irritation of the eyes, nose and throat can occur. Risk depends on air quality, duration of exposure, physical activity and individual health.

TCM Haze Treatments Singapore: Supporting Your Body During Haze Season

Haze can affect daily life in Singapore, particularly when PM2.5 concentrations rise and the PSI enters the Unhealthy range.

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers an individualised framework for addressing complaints such as dry throat, coughing, nasal discomfort and general respiratory irritation. Depending on the person’s presentation, a registered TCM physician may consider acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary recommendations or a combination of approaches.

However, TCM should be regarded as complementary rather than a replacement for haze protection measures or conventional medical care.

The first priority should always be reducing unnecessary exposure to polluted air, monitoring Singapore’s PSI and PM2.5 readings, staying hydrated and following official health advisories.

People with asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease or significant respiratory symptoms should be particularly cautious and seek appropriate medical attention when necessary.

When TCM is used, choosing a registered practitioner and providing complete information about your symptoms, medications and medical history can help ensure a safer and more individualised approach.

For Singapore residents interested in TCM during haze periods, the most balanced strategy is therefore straightforward: reduce exposure first, monitor your symptoms carefully, follow official haze advisories, and use TCM as complementary support where appropriate.