In TCM, autoimmune conditions are viewed through a holistic and functional lens. Rather than being seen solely as immune overactivation, these disorders are understood to arise from an imbalance in the body’s internal systems, leading to disturbances in the normal flow and function of Qi (vital energy). Qi is closely associated with the body’s defensive and regulatory functions, which may be considered analogous to aspects of immune health.
When Qi is weakened, blocked, or imbalanced, the body’s ability to regulate itself is compromised, giving rise to chronic inflammation, fatigue, and autoimmune manifestations.
Common patterns include:

• Qi deficiency (气虚) –  Low energy, weak immunity, and increased susceptibility to illness
• Spleen deficiency (脾虚) – 
Poor digestion and nutrient transformation, contributing to fatigue and dampness accumulation
• Lung Qi deficiency (肺气虚 / 卫气不足) – Weak defensive Qi, leading to frequent infections or sensitivity to external factors
• Kidney deficiency (肾虚) – Reduced vitality and resilience, often seen in chronic or long-standing conditions
• Dampness, phlegm, or damp-heat (湿 / 痰 / 湿热) – Contributing to inflammation, swelling, skin conditions, and metabolic imbalance
• Blood stasis (血瘀) – Chronic obstruction and poor circulation, associated with pain and long-term disease
• Liver Qi stagnation (肝气郁结) – 
Stress-related imbalance affecting immune regulation and overall wellbeing