5. Xu Mai (Deficient Pulse) – 5 Types
Typically indicates a deficiency syndrome.
The types of deficient pulses include Xu Mai (虚脉), Wei Mai (微脉), Xi Mai (细脉), Dai Mai (代脉), and Duan Mai (短脉).
Generally, these pulse types represent a deficiency of Qi and blood.
1. Xu Mai (Deficient Pulse)
[Pulse Characteristics] Xu means floating and weak; the pulse feels soft and weak under the fingertips. It is large and soft without a solid foundation. It is weak when lifted and empty when pressed, slow and large yet soft. When palpated, it can be almost imperceptible.
[Analysis] This pulse primarily indicates deficiency syndromes, particularly deficiency of both Qi and blood. It can be seen in various deficiencies of Yin, Yang, Qi, blood, and organs. It also indicates heat injury from summer heat. Symptoms of deficiency are often due to insufficient blood.
Xu indicates a state of both Qi and blood deficiency; when Qi and blood are deficient, the pulse becomes weak, primarily associated with internal insufficiency. In chronic illness, the pulse is often weak and may not respond to treatment.
A weak pulse with body heat indicates heat stroke, while Qi deficiency leads to weakness.
Heat injury from summer heat, irritability, spontaneous sweating, and convulsions in children.
1) Left Cun: Palpitations and anxiety. Confusion.
2) Left Guan: Blood fails to nourish the tendons.
3) Left Chi: Weakness in the lower back and knees.
4) Right Cun: Spontaneous sweating and fear of wind.
5) Right Guan: Indigestion.
6) Right Chi: Cold symptoms arise.
Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis requires the integration of observation, listening, questioning, and pulse diagnosis. Diagnosis should not be conducted blindly; if you experience discomfort, please seek guidance from a qualified TCM practitioner.
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