Full of vitality and energy is a sign of good health, while Qi deficiency not only leads to fatigue but also affects the function of related organs, causing various health issues.The manifestations of Qi deficiency in the five organs are distinct, and appropriate adjustments are necessary to replenish their Qi.
1. Liver Qi Deficiency
The liver opens to the eyes, and those with liver Qi deficiency may experience dizziness, blurred vision, and a lack of luster in the eyes. The liver is located beneath the chest, and its meridians are distributed along the sides of the body. When liver Qi is deficient, the liver’s ability to regulate is weakened, leading to feelings of fullness or heaviness in the sides. Insufficient liver Qi and blood can also result in emotional instability or feelings of fear.
Liver Qi deficiency is common among those who work on computers, sit for long periods, and patients with liver and gallbladder diseases. Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus) is a key herb for replenishing liver Qi without causing dryness. Based on the liver’s preference for smooth flow and the tendency for liver diseases to become stagnant, adding Chai Hu (Bupleurum) and Bo He (Peppermint) to liver Qi replenishing formulas can help prevent and treat stagnation due to deficiency, aiding in the recovery of liver Qi.
2. Heart Qi Deficiency
Heart Qi deficiency leads to insufficient blood, so those with heart Qi deficiency primarily present with a pale or sallow complexion, shortness of breath, palpitations, mental fatigue, and restlessness, often experiencing insomnia, vivid dreams, dizziness, forgetfulness, and lack of energy. The heart is related to the small intestine, so individuals with heart Qi deficiency may also experience abdominal bloating or constipation.
Heart Qi deficiency is common among patients with cardiovascular diseases, insomnia, anemia, and those engaged in mental labor. Daily practices such as acupressure and dietary therapy can help regulate this condition. The Shen Men (Heart 7) point is the source point of the heart meridian, located at the end of the wrist crease on the side of the little finger. Pressing or rubbing the Shen Men point until a slight aching sensation is felt can help nourish heart Qi, calm the mind, and promote sleep.
For dietary therapy, 15 grams each of Bai He (Lily Bulb) and Long Yan Rou (Longan), with a small amount of rock sugar, can be stewed and consumed in small amounts daily. Alternatively, 30 grams each of Bai He and Lian Zi (Lotus Seed), along with 200 grams of glutinous rice, can be cooked into porridge and taken in the morning and evening.
3. Spleen Qi Deficiency
Individuals with spleen Qi deficiency often have pale lips and primarily present with a sallow complexion, fatigue, weakness in the limbs, and reduced appetite, often accompanied by abdominal bloating, indigestion, and loose stools, and in severe cases, rectal prolapse or frequent urination. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that the spleen governs the muscles and limbs, so those with spleen Qi deficiency often feel weak and fatigued. Insufficient spleen Qi and blood can also affect the stomach’s function, leading to poor appetite and digestive issues.
Spleen Qi deficiency is common among individuals with irregular eating habits and those with digestive system diseases. The San Yan (Three Eyes) point is a key acupoint for strengthening the spleen and benefiting the stomach. To locate it, extend the left hand with the palm facing oneself, draw three vertical lines dividing the ring finger section into thirds, and then draw two horizontal lines dividing it into thirds, creating six intersection points. The San Yan point is located at the top left intersection; the right hand’s San Yan point is located at the top right intersection. Use the thumb of one hand to press firmly on the point for 10 minutes on each hand, alternating between them.
4. Lung Qi Deficiency
The lungs govern Qi, so those with lung Qi deficiency often have weak breaths, speak softly, and may experience shortness of breath, coughing, and phlegm production. The lungs open to the nose and govern the skin and hair; cold and wind pathogens can easily invade the body through the mouth, nose, and skin, making those with lung Qi deficiency prone to colds and asthma. Additionally, insufficient lung Qi can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as constipation or diarrhea.
Lung Qi deficiency is common among individuals with recurrent colds and those in suboptimal health, as well as patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Huang Qi (Astragalus) is an excellent herb for replenishing Qi, particularly effective for lung Qi, with benefits for strengthening the spleen, boosting Qi, consolidating the exterior, and enhancing immunity.
Individuals with lung Qi deficiency can regularly drink Huang Qi tea (made from raw Huang Qi, Bai He, Goji Berries, and Rhodiola) to nourish lung Qi.
5. Kidney Qi Deficiency
The kidneys govern the bones and produce marrow, and their essence manifests in the hair, so those with kidney Qi deficiency often have dull hair. They primarily present with a dark complexion, dizziness, tinnitus, pale tongue, weak pulse, and symptoms such as lower back and knee weakness and reduced sexual function.
Insufficient kidney Qi can also affect bladder function, leading to frequent urination. Kidney Qi deficiency is common among the elderly, some men with sexual dysfunction, and some women in menopause. Chestnut is beneficial for nourishing the kidneys, strengthening the tendons, and stopping bleeding, making it an excellent dietary remedy for kidney Qi deficiency and weakness in the lower back and knees. Here is a dietary recipe for kidney nourishment: Chestnut and Pork Rib Soup.
Ingredients: 250 grams of fresh chestnuts, 500 grams of pork ribs, 1 carrot, and 3 grams of salt. Method: Peel the chestnuts, blanch the pork ribs in boiling water, and cut the carrot into pieces. Add water and bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer for 30 minutes on low heat, adding salt to taste. This dish is suitable for those with kidney Qi deficiency and weakness in the lower back and legs.
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