“The Suwen (Plain Questions) states: ‘Human beings are born from the Qi of Heaven and Earth.’ ‘When Heaven and Earth combine their Qi, it is called a person.’ Humans are born from the Qi of Heaven and Earth.”
Qi deficiency is a term in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that refers to a lack of strength, where both physical and mental energy feel depleted, leading to fatigue even with minimal exertion. The body’s immune function and disease resistance are comparatively low.In simpler terms, it refers to a series of pathological changes caused by a deficiency of Yuan Qi (元气, Original Qi).
Do you often feel short of breath even without intense exercise, and find that deep breathing brings relief? Even with a manageable workload, you may feel exhausted, lethargic, and find yourself wanting to lie down or nap. Do you appear sluggish overall?
Qi deficiency constitution refers to a series of pathological changes and symptoms caused by insufficient Yuan Qi. Qi is the most fundamental substance in the human body, formed by the combination of the essence (精气, jingqi) from the kidneys, the Qi from the spleen and stomach that processes food, and the clear Qi (清气, qingqi) inhaled by the lungs.
There are different types of Qi tonics: replenishing Yuan Qi, Spleen Qi, Lung Qi, Heart Qi, and Kidney Qi. So, how should one specifically tonify Qi and regulate a Qi deficiency constitution?[Replenishing Yuan Qi]Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Ren Shen (Ginseng), Huang Qi (Astragalus), Shan Yao (Chinese Yam), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes)Patients who have experienced high fever, surgery, childbirth, or long-term antibiotic use often suffer from significant damage to their Yuan Qi. In such cases, taking Ren Shen can help restore the body quickly. Ren Shen lozenges or tea can be consumed, but it is advisable to drink plenty of water when using Ren Shen to enhance absorption and avoid overheating.[Replenishing Heart Qi]Xi Yang Shen (American Ginseng), Hong Shen (Red Ginseng)Overworking can lead to an increased heart rate initially, but if it worsens, it may result in palpitations and shortness of breath, indicating early signs of heart disease due to Heart Qi deficiency. In such cases, Xi Yang Shen and Hong Shen are the first choices. Taking these heart Qi tonics early can help prevent premature heart disease.
[Replenishing Spleen Qi]Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Shan Yao (Chinese Yam), Bai Bian Dou (Lima Bean)Spleen Qi deficiency is characterized by abdominal distension, fatigue, poor appetite, and loose stools. Such individuals often have gastritis, and some may experience conditions like gastric prolapse, rectal prolapse, or uterine prolapse, all of which are manifestations of Spleen Qi deficiency.Herbs like Bai Zhu and Shan Yao can enhance Spleen Qi. If the tongue coating is thick, adding Bai Bian Dou can help both tonify Spleen Qi and eliminate dampness.[Replenishing Kidney Qi]Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries), Tu Si Zi (Cuscuta), Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra), Jiu Cai Zi (Chive Seeds)Kidney Qi deficiency is primarily manifested by symptoms such as lower back pain, fatigue, poor mental state, susceptibility to diarrhea, and lower back and knee pain, especially in the elderly. Due to insufficient Kidney Qi, older adults are more prone to colds and may develop other complications.Symptoms may include a preference for strong flavors, frequent urination, low-grade fever in the late afternoon, involuntary leg shaking while sitting, cold hands and feet in spring, and night sweats.
[Replenishing Lung Qi]Gan Cao (Licorice)Lung Qi deficiency is primarily characterized by weakness in speech, night sweats, insomnia, palpitations, and shortness of breath. In women, it may manifest as irregular menstruation, with varying flow and postpartum breast lumps.Coughing and wheezing are common ailments today, which undoubtedly harm Lung Qi, leading to Lung Qi deficiency. Those suffering from coughs and wheezing are likely familiar with Gan Cao, which not only alleviates coughs but also primarily serves to tonify Lung Qi.While alleviating coughs and wheezing, tonifying Lung Qi is also crucial.
Qi deficiency constitution is very common in modern life, so there is no need to treat it as a serious issue. Regular exercise and attention to dietary health can naturally lead to improved health.In summary, Qi deficiency is not a major disease; we just need to face it positively in our daily lives. Regular exercise and mindful eating will naturally restore health.
Written by / Su
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