I often feel overwhelmed when I see terms like Qi Deficiency (气虚), Blood Deficiency (血虚), Yin Deficiency (阴虚), Yang Deficiency (阳虚), and Essence Deficiency (精虚), as I am currently studying Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and thought I would research and organize these concepts.1. Qi Deficiency (气虚). Qi Deficiency is characterized by fatigue, shortness of breath, and a lack of energy, with diminished organ function. It can be difficult to distinguish between Qi Deficiency and Yang Deficiency or Yin Deficiency. Some people translate Qi Deficiency into modern terms as having low energy, which is also acceptable.2. Yang Deficiency (阳虚). Yang Deficiency manifests as a fear of cold, cold hands and feet, and localized cold sensations, indicating a decline in Yang Qi (阳气) function.3. Yin Deficiency (阴虚). Yin Deficiency presents with low-grade fever, night sweats, and a feeling of heat in the palms and soles, indicating insufficient Yin fluids (阴液). The heat here is diffuse, whereas the heat from Yin Deficiency with excess fire (阴虚火旺) is localized, such as inflammation in the mouth.4. Blood Deficiency (血虚). Blood Deficiency is characterized by pale complexion, dizziness, palpitations, and insomnia, indicating insufficient nourishment from the blood, which is also a sign of insufficient Ying Qi (营气).5. Essence Deficiency (精虚). Essence Deficiency is associated with poor growth and development, infertility, and premature aging, particularly related to the reproductive system. This is perhaps the easiest to understand, especially for men, as it is more visibly manifested, although it applies to both genders; men tend to show signs like hair loss more prominently.The Huangdi Neijing (黄帝内经) states that deficiencies should be supplemented. Therefore, deficiency syndromes generally require tonification, but there are also cases where deficiencies should not be supplemented indiscriminately.In fact, I believe it is not easy to strictly define these concepts, but based on their basic characteristics, we can generally categorize them.As a beginner, having a general direction is sufficient.Previous articles:Every time I see someone say that TCM is a scam, I feel very sad.Chinese patent medicines: Are they made by adding Western medicine to Chinese medicine, or vice versa?Why do some Chinese patent medicines contain chemical components?Many people dislike drinking Chinese herbal medicine, but not all Chinese medicine is meant to be consumed as a drink.
