Covid-19-linked loss of smell and taste: Case study and discussion

Increasing evidence indicates that loss of smell and taste are key symptoms of COVID-19 This paper discusses the aetiology, pathology and mechanism of loss of smell and taste from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) The primary Chinese medicine patterns of damp-cold and damp-heat with toxin are described, along with an explanation of the main zang-fu organs involved (the Lungs and Spleen), and how the mind and brain may be involved A confirmed COVID-19 case in which the patient lost their sense of smell and taste is also reported, including symptoms, pattern identification and treatment with Chinese herbal medicine and acupressure