Today (September 23) marks the Autumn Equinox, one of the 24 solar terms. Entering the Autumn Equinox signifies that we have truly entered autumn. As a solar term where day and night are equal, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that people should follow the principles of yin-yang balance in their health practices, maintaining the principle of “yin ping yang mi” (Yin is balanced and Yang is hidden), and in diet, it is advisable to “warmly nourish and moisten the lungs“.
After the Autumn Equinox, the temperature difference between day and night becomes significant, so one should adjust clothing accordingly to prevent catching a cold from the autumn chill. Engaging in outdoor activities and enjoying uplifting sights can help maintain an optimistic and positive mindset.
After the Autumn Equinox, the yin-yang energy transitions from the outward dispersal of summer to the inward collection of autumn, and the body’s qi (vital energy) and xue (blood) follow suit. Therefore, the Autumn Equinox is an important time for regulating the body and beginning to accumulate energy for the growth in the coming spring and summer.
In dietary therapy, TCM also approaches from the perspective of yin-yang balance, categorizing foods into those that are suitable and those that should be avoided. Individuals with a phlegm-damp constitution should avoid greasy foods; those with a wood-fire constitution should avoid spicy foods; individuals suffering from skin diseases or asthma should avoid seafood such as shrimp and crabs; and those with a cold stomach should avoid raw and cold foods.
Dr. Wang Ti, TCM Physician at Zhenjiang Hospital: Autumn weather is dry, and combined with the excessive consumption of jing (essence) and qi (vital energy) during summer, it is easy to develop symptoms of autumn dryness such as mouth sores, sore throat, and cough with constipation. Therefore, we should consume foods that nourish yin and moisten dryness. For example, we can eat more sour-tasting fruits and vegetables and less spicy foods like scallions and ginger. Foods such as pears, sugarcane, water chestnuts, grapes, apples, as well as lotus root and radishes are excellent choices for autumn.
Experts emphasize that in the integrated nutritional view of food and medicine, TCM highlights the connection between natural products such as Chinese herbs and food. Certain properties, especially those that nourish or regulate the body’s yin and yang qi and xue, are inherently linked, creating an inseparable relationship. When food and medicine are appropriately combined, it can enhance the health benefits of food and prevent diseases.
Dr. Wang Ti, TCM Physician at Zhenjiang Hospital: Additionally, ingredients such as Sha Shen (Glehnia root), Mai Dong (Ophiopogon), Bai He (Lily bulb), Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries), Yin Er (Tremella), Xue Ha (Snow frog), and Yan Wo (Bird’s nest) are commonly used in autumn health regimens. We can incorporate them into our meals or use them to make soups and porridge. For friends experiencing cold extremities, fear of cold, frequent clear urination, and loose stools due to spleen-kidney yang deficiency, gradually increasing the intake of warming and nourishing foods is advisable.
Source | Online Big Search
Editor | You Yun
Editor-in-Chief | Li Yu
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