Adults have about two to three colds a year and children more. Most are caused by viruses and clear in 7 to 10 days without antibiotics. Flu is similar but more severe, with fever, aching and exhaustion.
What helps a cold
- Rest, plenty of fluids and warm drinks
- Paracetamol for fever and aches, as directed
- Saline nasal rinses and steam for a blocked nose
- Honey for a cough (not for babies under one year)
- Staying home to avoid spreading it
Antibiotics do not help
Colds and flu are viral. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, and taking them without need adds to antibiotic resistance. Vaccination can help prevent flu.
What The Tole can offer
In the traditional view, colds are classed by pattern, such as wind-cold or wind-heat, and the Master’s team may suggest herbal formulas for symptom relief. For people who catch many colds, acupuncture and herbs can be offered to support general wellbeing. We do not claim they prevent or cure infections. Research is mixed.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, in the way developed by our founder, Dato’ Leong Hong Tole. Master Tole is the founder of TheTole neuro acupuncture and TheTole neuro brain powder, and the treatment is based on his own technique and on the family’s ancestral formulas. His team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs.
Treatment at The Tole is used together with your medical treatment, to support your recovery. We never ask anyone to stop the care their doctor has advised.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
Please consult before you buy. Before you purchase any TheTole herbs, including TheTole neuro brain powder, we recommend consulting Dato’ Tole or his team first, so that you receive the correct prescription for your condition.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- Founded by Dato’ Master Leong Hong Tole, creator of TheTole neuro acupuncture and TheTole neuro brain powder
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can herbs shorten a cold?
Some small studies suggest modest benefit for symptoms, but evidence is mixed.
Why do I catch so many colds?
Stress, poor sleep, close contact with children, and smoking all play a part. Handwashing and vaccination help.
When is it more than a cold?
See the warning signs below.
See a doctor first if
- Difficulty breathing, chest pain or a blue tinge to the lips. Emergency
- Fever above 39 degrees lasting more than three days, or a stiff neck
- Symptoms that worsen after a week, or ear or sinus pain
- Infants, older adults, pregnant women, or those with heart, lung or immune conditions
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. Used together with your doctor’s treatment, it aims to support your recovery. Responses vary from person to person, and no particular result can be promised. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.