Characteristics of Individuals with Phlegm-Damp Constitution
The main characteristics of individuals with a phlegm-damp constitution include obesity. Director Zhou will ask everyone a few questions:
1. Do you often feel chest tightness or abdominal fullness? 2. Do you feel heavy and uncomfortable in your body? 3. Is your abdomen soft and plump? 4. Do you often have excessive oil secretion on your forehead? 5. Do your eyes often swell? 6. Do you frequently have a sticky feeling in your mouth? 7. Do you often feel a sensation of obstruction in your throat? If you have more than five of these symptoms, Director Zhou suggests that you may likely have a phlegm-damp constitution.
Individuals with phlegm-damp constitution are prone to: fatty liver, diabetes, and hypertension, and women are more likely to suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome.
The causes of phlegm-damp constitution are mostly: due to dysfunction of the spleen and stomach leading to waste accumulation, with the spleen failing to transport and transform, resulting in phlegm and dampness obstructing the interior.
The treatment principle for phlegm-damp constitution is: transform phlegm and resolve dampness.
Dietary therapy: White radish (has the effect of transforming phlegm, aiding digestion, and promoting qi flow. *However, it should not be used with qi-tonifying herbs like ginseng.) Lotus leaf (can be boiled in water or porridge).
Exercise therapy: Rub your palms together until warm, then massage your abdomen in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction repeatedly.
Main acupuncture points: Yinlingquan (SP9) of the Spleen Meridian and Zusanli (ST36) of the Stomach Meridian (methods such as acupressure or moxibustion can be applied).
In the Northeast region, individuals with a phlegm-damp constitution are also at high risk for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases, so it is important to pay special attention.
