All diseases arise from cold. As the weather gets cooler, the responsibility of dispelling cold also arises. We all know that the body is most afraid of cold; it can cause pain and form various pathogenic factors, such as dampness, cysts, and tumors. Cold also signifies a lack of vitality in the body. Nowadays, due to lifestyle habits, many people suffer from internal cold. Therefore, in cold weather, it is essential to pay attention to preventing and dispelling cold to warm our bodies.
So why do we say that all diseases arise from cold? Firstly, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that the causes of diseases can be categorized into two types: Yin diseases and Yang diseases. In the theory of Yin and Yang, diseases are simply the pathogenic factors of cold and heat. Therefore, no matter how systematically or complexly Western medicine categorizes diseases, they ultimately stem from the pathogenic factors of cold and heat, leading to an imbalance of Yin and Yang in the body. What causes cold symptoms? TCM believes that cold symptoms are caused by cold weather, consuming raw and cold foods and drinks, getting wet in the rain, and taking cold showers, which allow cold pathogens to enter the body, weakening Yang Qi and resulting in cold in the five organs. Clinically, this often manifests as pale complexion, fear of cold, preference for warmth, cold limbs, lack of thirst, frequent urination, loose stools, pale tongue, white coating, teeth marks on the tongue, and a deep, slow, weak pulse.
How can we alleviate this situation? Today, Teacher Shen shares a warming Yang formula that sweeps away cold from the five organs, allowing all cold pathogens to disperse. This formula is Zhang Zhongjing’s Li Zhong Tang (Regulating the Middle Decoction), from the Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage).
Li Zhong Tang consists of four herbs: Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Ren Shen (Ginseng), and Gan Cao (Licorice).
First, we add Gan Jiang, which is very pungent and warm, capable of warming the middle, dispersing cold, restoring Yang, and warming the lungs to transform phlegm. It can eliminate internal cold in the organs and is commonly used for cold pain in the abdomen, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Next, we add Bai Zhu, which is bitter and sweet, and warm in nature. It has the effects of tonifying Qi, strengthening the spleen, drying dampness, promoting urination, and stabilizing the exterior to stop sweating. It helps restore the functional movement of the spleen and stomach and is commonly used to treat spleen Qi deficiency, excessive dampness, poor appetite, abdominal distension, and fatigue.
Then we add Ren Shen, known as the premier Qi tonic, which greatly replenishes Yuan Qi, strengthens the spleen and lungs, generates fluids, quenches thirst, calms the mind, and enhances intelligence. Many formulas use Ren Shen to replenish spleen Qi.
Finally, we add Gan Cao, which is sweet, neutral, and enters the heart, lungs, spleen, and stomach channels. It has the effects of tonifying the spleen and stomach, clearing heat and detoxifying, and resolving phlegm and stopping cough. Moreover, Gan Cao has a gentle nature, harmonizing the other herbs.
In summary, the combination of these four herbs provides warming and tonifying effects, tonifying Qi and strengthening the spleen, and dispelling cold from the middle, which can treat various cold syndromes. Of course, to ensure the lasting efficacy of the formula, it can also be made into pills. However, it should be noted that this formula primarily warms Yang, so it should not be used by those with Yin deficiency and internal heat or damp-heat accumulation.
In conclusion, while proprietary Chinese medicines are very convenient, one should not use them indiscriminately based solely on symptoms. TCM treats diseases by following the principle of syndrome differentiation, with each person receiving a unique formula tailored to their constitution. It is essential to consult a professional for the most suitable prescription based on individual conditions to avoid harming the body.
This is the content shared today, for reference only! When choosing medications, it is crucial to base them on symptoms. If you are unsure which category your condition falls into, please seek professional medical help for differentiation! I hope this helps everyone. See you next time!
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