↑Click the card above to follow me↑【This article is: Dr. Peng Xin’s explanation of the “TCM Treatment of External Pathogenic Illness” series, Lecture 4. (More exciting content will be updated in the next issue…)】Dear listeners, hello, I am Dr. Peng Xin of Traditional Chinese Medicine.Today, I will share with you the courseThe main title is:TCM Rehabilitation and Dietary Methods for Qi Deficiency and Fatigue After External Pathogenic IllnessThe subtitle is:Ancient TCM Methods for Treating External Pathogenic Illness (Lecture 4) – After Recovery: Qi Deficiency and FatigueSpecial Note:The content of this article is mainly for clinical reference for TCM professionals. The formulas, herbs, and other methods mentioned in the text should not be used blindly by non-professionals and should be applied under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner for safety.
In previous courses, I shared:
Ancient TCM Methods for Treating External Pathogenic Illness (Lecture 1): Wind-Cold and Wind-Heat Syndromes (Click to view)Ancient TCM Methods for Treating External Pathogenic Illness (Lecture 2): Qi Deficiency Syndrome (Click to view)Ancient TCM Methods for Treating External Pathogenic Illness (Lecture 3): Cold-Damp Syndrome(Click to view)These courses explained the TCM differentiation and treatment methods for the four syndromes of external pathogenic illness: “Wind-Cold Syndrome”, “Wind-Heat Syndrome”, “Qi Deficiency Syndrome”, and “Cold-Damp Syndrome”. In this issue, I will continue to share the TCM approach and my personal experience in treating Qi deficiency and fatigue after recovery from external pathogenic illness.1. Recovery Takes TimeMany people, after recovering from external pathogenic illness, although they no longer have a fever (for more than 3 days), and various symptoms of the illness have basically disappeared, patients with pneumonia have also found that the pneumonia lesions have significantly absorbed upon re-examination of lung CT; (Please follow WeChat: pengxinboshi) microbiological tests have also been negative for three consecutive tests over two days, indicating no infectious threat to those around them, which is generally considered clinical recovery.However, the body’s overall strength and function typically require 2-3 weeks to gradually recover. If there are no significant symptoms, there is no need to be overly anxious. During this time, it is important to rest, avoid strenuous exercise, and enhance nutrition to facilitate gradual recovery.However, some patients may experience noticeable symptoms during this 2-3 week recovery period; or even after more than 3 weeks of recovery, they may still have some lingering issues: such as Qi deficiency and fatigue, chest tightness and shortness of breath, sore throat and cough, palpitations, cold intolerance, insomnia with vivid dreams, abdominal pain and diarrhea, lack of energy, and recurrent susceptibility to illness. At this time, targeted care is needed to promote recovery.2. TCM Care for Qi Deficiency and Fatigue(1) Main Manifestations:Fatigue, low energy, soft voice, chest tightness and shortness of breath, shallow cough, pale yellow complexion, lack of strength, poor appetite, loose stools, pale tongue with white coating, weak and soft pulse.(2) Specific Manifestations:Feeling more fatigued than before the illness, always wanting to rest, reluctant to move; easily short of breath when walking long distances or climbing stairs, feeling weak and tired; shortness of breath and fatigue after talking for a while, shallow cough; feeling insufficient energy with slightly increased workload, unable to concentrate, feeling tired after thinking a little, lacking spirit. Some individuals may have relapsed into external pathogenic illness shortly after recovery.(3) Organ Differentiation:The lungs govern Qi and respiration; if lung Qi is insufficient, symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and shallow cough may occur. The lungs also govern the skin and hair; if lung Qi is deficient, the protective Qi is not solid, making it easy to relapse into external pathogenic illness.The spleen governs the muscles and is the foundation of postnatal life, the source of Qi and blood production. If spleen Qi is insufficient, symptoms such as fatigue, lack of strength, poor appetite, loose stools, and even abdominal pain and diarrhea may occur;Many experts believe that external pathogenic illness primarily invades the lungs and spleen, and Qi deficiency and fatigue mainly refer to the insufficiency of Qi in the spleen and lungs.(4) Summary of Pathogenesis:Post-illness Qi deficiency, insufficient lung and spleen.(5) Corresponding Formulas and Herbs:The main formula is Bǔ Zhōng Yì Qì Tāng (Renovate the Middle and Boost Qi Decoction). (Adjust according to clinical conditions)(6) Formula Composition:Bǔ Zhōng Yì Qì Tāng consists of: 18g Huang Qi (Astragalus), 6g Ren Shen (Ginseng), 9g Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), 9g Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-Fried Licorice), 3g Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), 6g Chen Pi (Dried Tangerine Peel), 6g Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga), 6g Chai Hu (Bupleurum).[1](The composition and dosage of the above formula are mainly based on the standardized textbooks of TCM pharmacology from TCM higher education institutions. TCM professionals can adjust according to the specific clinical situation of the patient.)(7) Analysis of Formula Significance:Bǔ Zhōng Yì Qì Tāng originates from the famous physician Li Dongyuan’s “Discussion on Internal and External Injuries” from the Jin and Yuan dynasties, and is also recorded in the “Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach”. Li Dongyuan is a representative of the Spleen and Stomach School (Earth Supplementation School) and has unique insights into nourishing the spleen and stomach and regulating Qi dynamics.In this formula, Huang Qi is used to tonify the middle and raise Yang. The “Compendium of Materia Medica” states: “Huang Qi nourishes the middle earth, warms and nourishes the spleen and stomach, and is most suitable for those with weak middle Qi and deficient spleen earth, where clear Qi sinks.” (Please follow WeChat: pengxinboshi) Zhang Xichun in “Medical Records of Traditional and Western Medicine” states: “Huang Qi is good at tonifying Qi and also at raising Qi.” After external pathogenic illness, the middle Qi is deficient, the clear Yang does not rise, and the earth does not generate metal, often leading to weak lung Qi. Huang Qi not only excels at tonifying Qi and nourishing the spleen but also “enters the lungs to tonify Qi and enters the exterior to solidify the protective Qi”, hence it is praised in the “True Record of Materia Medica” as the “best among Qi tonics”.In the formula, Ren Shen is a key herb for tonifying Qi, primarily benefiting the five organs. The “Shennong’s Classic of Materia Medica” states: “It tonifies the five organs and calms the spirit.” Compared to Huang Qi, it emphasizes the nourishment of the spleen and stomach, hence the “Compendium of Materia Medica” states: “For superficial Qi, Huang Qi is preferred; for internal Qi, Ren Shen is preferred.”Wang Ang in “Collection of Medical Formulas” provides an analysis of this formula for reference: “(Bǔ Zhōng Yì Qì Tāng) is a remedy for the Taiyin and Yangming. The lungs are the source of Qi; Huang Qi tonifies the lungs and solidifies the exterior as the monarch; the spleen is the source of the lungs; Ren Shen and Gan Cao tonify the spleen and benefit Qi, harmonizing the middle and draining fire as ministers; Bai Zhu dries dampness and strengthens the spleen, while Dang Gui nourishes blood and nourishes Yin as assistants; Sheng Ma raises Yangming and clears Qi, while Chai Hu raises Shaoyang and clears Qi; when Yang rises, all things thrive, and when clear rises, turbid Yin descends; adding Chen Pi facilitates Qi flow; ginger is warm and sweet, and jujube is warm and sweet, used to harmonize Ying and Wei, open the pores, and generate fluids, addressing all deficiencies and establishing the middle first.”(8) Adjustments:If fatigue is severe, the dosage of Huang Qi and Ren Shen can be appropriately increased, and adjustments should be made according to the patient’s specific situation in clinical practice.If there is lung Yin deficiency, with irritability, thirst, and dry mouth and throat, add 6g Mai Dong (Ophiopogon) and 9g Lu Gen (Reed Rhizome) to nourish Yin, moisten the lungs, and clear heat and generate fluids;If there is a heavy cough with phlegm, add 6g Jie Geng (Platycodon) and 6g Pi Pa Ye (Loquat Leaf) to benefit the throat, resolve phlegm, and stop cough;If there is abdominal pain and diarrhea that is relieved by heat and worsens after consuming cold food, it indicates cold deficiency in the middle jiao spleen and stomach, add 9g Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger) to warm the spleen and stomach in combination with Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, and Gan Cao to form the “Regulate the Middle Decoction”.3. Dietary Therapy and Moxibustion Health Methods(1) Dietary TherapyChoose ingredients that tonify Qi and nourish the lungs to make congee.30g Fresh Yam, 10g Lily Bulb, 30g Rice, cook into congee and consume.Yam:Strengthens the spleen, nourishes the lungs, solidifies the kidneys, and benefits essence. The “Shennong’s Classic of Materia Medica” states: “It is used for injuries to the middle, tonifies deficiency, eliminates cold and heat evil Qi, tonifies the middle and boosts Qi, and promotes muscle growth; long-term consumption enhances hearing and vision.”Lily:Nourishes Yin, moistens the lungs, calms the heart, and soothes the spirit. The “Compendium of Materia Medica” states: “Lily can tonify the earth and clear the metal, stop cough, and benefit urination.” The “Essentials of Materia Medica” states: “The function of lily is to benefit Qi while also facilitating Qi, to nourish the upright while also expelling evil.”Rice:Strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, tonifies the middle and boosts Qi, alleviates thirst, and stops diarrhea. The “Record of Famous Physicians” states: “Japonica rice is used to benefit Qi, stop thirst, and stop diarrhea.” The “Essentials of Materia Medica” states: “Harmonizes the stomach, tonifies the middle, is white and enters the lungs, alleviates thirst and clears heat.” The classic formula “Bai Hu Tang” uses it.(2) Moxibustion Health MethodsMoxibustion points:Zu San Li (ST36), Zhong Wan (CV12), Guan Yuan (CV4), moxibustion for 30 minutes at each pointStrengthens the spleen, tonifies Qi, warms the middle, and stops diarrhea. Caution for those with dry mouth and tongue, and Yin deficiency with heat.4. Daily Health Precautions After Recovery(1) Speak Less to Nourish QiTCM believes that excessive talking depletes Qi; after recovery, try to speak less to nourish lung Qi.(2) Dietary ConsiderationsIt is recommended to avoid spicy, cold, and overly sweet or greasy foods. The diet should be light, warm, nutritious, and easy to digest, avoiding adding burden to the spleen and stomach.(3) Mental NourishmentMaintain a calm mindset, avoid emotional disturbances (joy, anger, worry, thought, sadness, fear, shock), and try to limit screen time on phones, computers, and TVs to cultivate tranquility. Listening to soothing music can also help nourish the spirit.(4) Conserve EssenceLimit sexual activity and abstain from masturbation to conserve essence; the kidneys are the foundation of congenital life and the root of the body.(5) Focus on Rest, Gradually Resume Work and ExerciseAfter recovery, prioritize rest and gradually regain energy and strength. Only after complete recovery of vitality should one undertake certain amounts of exercise and work; avoid excessive exercise and workload too early. (Please follow WeChat: pengxinboshi) Generally, people can gradually resume exercise three weeks after recovery, starting with walking, Tai Chi, and Ba Duan Jin, which are gentle and relaxing exercises, avoiding intense activities that raise the heart rate; for those with Qi deficiency and weakness, it is recommended to rest for a month after recovering from external pathogenic illness before slowly resuming exercise and work.Special Note:The content of this article is mainly for clinical reference for TCM professionals. The formulas, herbs, and other treatment methods mentioned in the text should not be used blindly by non-professionals and should be applied under the guidance of a qualified physician for safety.The above discusses the manifestations of Qi deficiency and fatigue after recovery from external pathogenic illness, as well as TCM herbal care, dietary therapy, moxibustion health methods, and daily health precautions.Due to time constraints, I will conclude today’s lesson here. In future courses, I will gradually share other issues related to recovery from external pathogenic illness. “Qi deficiency and fatigue” mainly represent the insufficiency of the spleen and lung. In addition, there are many other manifestations of internal organ Qi deficiency, such as throat discomfort, cough with phlegm; palpitations, insomnia with vivid dreams; cold intolerance, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, which correspond to lung Yin deficiency, heart Qi deficiency, and Yang deficiency with spleen cold. I will share the methods for nourishing these conditions in upcoming courses. Thank you all!Wishing you good health!I am Dr. Peng Xin of TCM, see you in the next issue!(To be continued)References[1] Duan Fujin. Formulary Studies [M]. Shanghai: Shanghai Scientific and Technical Publishers, 1995:116This article is Dr. Peng Xin’s explanation of the “TCM Treatment of External Pathogenic Illness” series, Lecture 4. More exciting content will be updated in the next issue.Previous content of Dr. Peng’s series on “TCM Treatment of External Pathogenic Illness”:1: Ancient TCM Methods for Treating External Pathogenic Illness (Lecture 1) – Experience Sharing on Differentiation: Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat (Includes Audio) (Click to view the original text)2:What to do if a person with Qi deficiency contracts an external pathogenic illness? What are the sequelae? (Includes Audio)(Click to view the original text)3: What to do if a person with heavy dampness contracts an external pathogenic illness? What are the sequelae? (Includes Audio) (Click to view the original text)Disclaimer: This article is a health knowledge sharing. The medications, formulas, acupuncture, and other treatment and health methods mentioned in the text should be applied under the guidance of a qualified physician, and should not be used independently. The author is not responsible for any issues arising from improper use.Copyright Statement: This article is authored byPeng Xin,this is an original article, and reproduction or citation without permission is prohibited.(Copyright belongs to the original author, and all legal rights are reserved)Recommended Reading
Follow “Dr. Peng Xin’s TCM Studio” Public WeChat Account, reply with the number 2022 to view popular reading collections.
[Includes Audio] Dr. Peng Xin explains the “Moxibustion Health” series
[Includes Audio] Dr. Peng Xin discusses “Health Preservation in the Twenty-Four Solar Terms”
[Includes Audio] Dr. Peng Xin discusses the essence of the “Huangdi Neijing” series
[State Council Information Office] TCM Doctor Peng Xin: The ultimate point of integration between Chinese and Western medicine lies in clinical practice
[Tsinghua University] Dr. Peng Xin’s public lecture – Modern Insights from Pengzu’s Health Preservation Philosophy
[Ba Duan Jin Complete Collection] Health Preservation Techniques – Dr. Peng Xin offers you a gift
An important reason for obesity (including solutions)
“Winter Solstice” marks the birth of Yang; the correct health preservation method is as follows
[Video] Vortex Gathering Energy: Method of Raising Clarity and Lowering Turbidity
[Health Preservation] Two Blood Nourishing Formulas Suitable for Women
[Exciting Recommendation] Since vegetarianism is so good, why is your body still so poor?
Dr. Peng Xin’s TCM Studio
WeChat Public Platform: pengxinboshi
Official Website: www.pengxinboshi.com
Sina Weibo: @Dr. Peng Xin
Tencent Weibo: @Dr. Peng Xin
Dr. Peng Xin’s Clinic Appointment and Lecture Invitation Methods
↓ ↓ ↓
Appointment Method: Click here for details