1. Chen Pi (Dried Tangerine Peel): Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Stomach, Aromatically Awakens the Spleen
For individuals with weak spleen and stomach and excessive phlegm-dampness, it is best to keep Chen Pi in the kitchen.
When cooking meat dishes, adding Chen Pi in moderation can help eliminate the fishy smell of meat with its aromatic qualities, enhance the flavor of the dishes to stimulate appetite, and fully utilize Chen Pi’s functions of regulating Qi and harmonizing the stomach, aromatically awakening the spleen, and transforming phlegm and dampness, thereby reducing the harm of phlegm-dampness and rich, greasy foods to the spleen and stomach.
2. Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger): Warms the Middle and Stops Vomiting
Sheng Jiang is pungent and slightly warm. It enters the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach meridians. Sheng Jiang is not only used for seasoning but is also a medicinal herb that can help alleviate symptoms of wind-cold colds and stomach cold vomiting.
When cooking porridge, pairing it with scallions to make ginger-scallion porridge is also a good option, as it can warm the stomach and dispel cold, increasing appetite. This dish is suitable for those with spleen and stomach deficiency cold and poor appetite.
Ginger syrup can also be made by slicing 3 pieces of ginger, adding a small bowl of water, bringing it to a boil over high heat, then reducing to low heat and simmering for 5 minutes. Afterward, pour it into a bowl, remove the ginger slices, add half a spoon of brown sugar, and stir until sweet.
3. Sha Ren (Amomum Fruit): Warms the Spleen and Opens the Appetite
Sha Ren has the effects of moving Qi, transforming dampness, warming the spleen, and opening the appetite. Sha Ren porridge is suitable for those with spleen and stomach deficiency cold, abdominal distension, and poor appetite.
Preparation: Take 100 grams of japonica rice and 5 grams of Sha Ren; first grind the Sha Ren into a fine powder and set aside, then rinse the japonica rice and cook it into porridge; when the porridge is ready, stir in the Sha Ren powder and cook for another 5 minutes. It can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning and evening.
Avoid Drinking Cool Tea
Cool tea is not suitable for everyone. For those with a cold spleen and stomach, drinking too much is like adding fuel to the fire. Excessive consumption does not achieve the effect of clearing heat and draining fire, but instead can cause stomach discomfort and lead to acid reflux.
Keep the Abdomen Warm
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the navel is referred to as the Shen Que point. Keeping this area warm can invigorate the body’s Yang Qi, especially for those with weak spleen and stomach who are sensitive to cold and prone to diarrhea. It is important to pay special attention to warming this area, and methods such as regularly applying heat to the navel can help dispel cold and support Yang.
Exercise to Expel Cold
Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the correspondence between heaven and humanity. Therefore, utilizing the natural environment and the body’s own vigorous Yang Qi at this time can help expel the cold toxins hidden within the body.
Thus, it is recommended for those with spleen and stomach deficiency cold to go outside for a walk, receive sunlight, and expose their backs to the sun to align with the abundant Yang Qi. Gentle exercises such as Tai Chi or health exercises are also beneficial.
Most importantly, everyone should limit their intake of cold drinks, eat meals on time, strengthen the spleen, nourish the stomach, and promote health with warmth.
Collection of Folk Remedies for Treating Rhinitis