The so-called phlegm-damp constitution refers to a state of the body where water and dampness accumulate internally, forming phlegm. This phlegm can travel through the patient’s meridians and accumulate in certain organs, leading to various nodules and polyps as it increases.Most individuals with this constitution tend to be overweight, with a higher amount of body fat, particularly in the abdomen, which is often soft.Many in this group have oily skin, especially with significant oiliness on the face.
Additionally, their overall physical ability is relatively weak, often feeling fatigued and lacking energy. After even slight activity or stressful work, they can become particularly exhausted. In severe cases, they may experience chest tightness or even difficulty breathing.The formation of this constitution is influenced by both genetic factors and, predominantly, acquired factors. Individuals with this constitution generally exhibit two characteristics:First, they tend to favor high-fat and high-sugar diets, such as fatty meats, cream, and chocolate;Second, their eating habits are irregular. Due to busy work or other reasons, they often skip meals and later compensate by overeating, leading to erratic eating patterns that can severely damage the spleen and stomach.In addition to avoiding cold and greasy foods and ensuring regular meals, the following methods can help improve this condition:1. Eat some Fuling (Poria) pastries
For those whose condition is not severe, dietary therapy can be attempted. Eating more pastries made from Fuling is beneficial, as Fuling has the properties of draining dampness and benefiting the spleen. Pastries made from its flour combine the advantages of both expelling dampness and strengthening the spleen.2. Chenpi (Dried Tangerine Peel), Yi Yi Ren (Job’s Tears), Shan Yao (Chinese Yam), Da Zao (Jujube)
Chenpi functions to regulate qi and strengthen the spleen, and when combined with Yi Yi Ren, Shan Yao, and Da Zao, it forms an excellent medicinal dish, particularly suitable for those with phlegm-damp constitution accompanied by symptoms of abdominal distension and diarrhea.3. Chenpi, Bai Bian Dou (White Lentil), Fuling, Lian Zi (Lotus Seed)
Chenpi regulates qi and strengthens the spleen, and when paired with Bai Bian Dou, Fuling, and Lian Zi (with the core removed), it creates a great medicinal dish, especially suitable for those with phlegm-damp constitution accompanied by symptoms of abdominal distension and insomnia with vivid dreams.4. Drink some Winter Melon Porridge
Winter melon porridge clears heat and drains dampness. Use 100 grams of fresh winter melon or 15 grams of winter melon seeds, 100 grams of rice, and 50 grams of raw Yi Yi Ren. If using fresh winter melon, simply wash off the white frost on the skin without peeling it. When cooking, cut the winter melon (with skin) into thin slices, rinse the rice, and cook together in a pot with water to make porridge. You can add a little salt to taste.5. Massage Fenglong Point
Method: Sit upright, bend your knees, and let your feet hang down. The Fenglong point is located at the midpoint of the line connecting the outer knee eye to the outer ankle tip. Massage twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, for 5 minutes each time, applying pressure until a sense of soreness is felt. Since this point has relatively thick muscle, use the pads of your index, middle, and ring fingers to press down, applying pressure from light to heavy, and then knead after pressing down to a certain depth.6. Press Zu San Li Point
Zu San Li is located on the outer side of the lower leg, 3 inches below the knee cap, one finger breadth away from the anterior border of the tibia. It can regulate the spleen and stomach, tonify qi, and promote strong and regular gastrointestinal peristalsis, enhancing the activity of various digestive enzymes, improving appetite, and aiding digestion.Method: Press both sides of the Zu San Li point once daily with your thumb or index finger for 5-10 minutes each time, pressing 15-20 times per minute until a sense of soreness and warmth is felt.7. Regular Exercise is Essential
The phlegm-damp constitution often manifests as fatigue and a reluctance to move, which is caused by poor circulation of qi and blood. Through moderate exercise, qi and blood circulation can be promoted, helping to expel phlegm-damp from the body and restore spleen function, thus regulating qi and strengthening the spleen.Choose suitable physical activities, such as badminton, table tennis, jogging, or walking; Tai Chi, Wu Qin Xi (Five Animal Frolics), and health exercises can also help promote qi and blood circulation.8. Ensure Adequate SleepInsufficient sleep can easily lead to low mood, so maintaining sufficient sleep can help avoid damaging the function of the spleen.