Calming the Spirit

Comprehensive Guide to the Three Diagnostic Methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – Observation, Listening, and Inquiry (Do Not Learn Pulse Diagnosis First)

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Comprehensive Guide to the Three Diagnostic Methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - Observation, Listening, and Inquiry (Do Not Learn Pulse Diagnosis First)

1. Observation (Wang Zhen) (1) General Observation: Observation is the foremost of the four diagnostic methods, focusing on four aspects: spirit (shen), color (se), shape (xing), and state (tai). Observation of Spirit (Wang Shen): Refers to the vitality and consciousness. The state of the spirit reflects the severity of the illness and prognosis; a lack … Read more

Transforming Suan Zao Ren Tang into a Paste for Better Sleep

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Transforming Suan Zao Ren Tang into a Paste for Better Sleep

The Suan Zao Ren Tang (Sour Jujube Decoction) is originally recorded in the Jin Kui Yao Lue (Essential Prescriptions of the Golden Cabinet) and is indicated for “deficiency heat and insomnia.” It consists of five ingredients: Shao Zao Ren (Suan Zao Ren, Sour Jujube Seed), Fu Ling (Poria), Chuan Xiong (Chuanxiong Rhizome), Zhi Mu (Anemarrhena), … Read more

Shu Di Huang: The Sacred Medicine for Nourishing Blood and Yin

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Shu Di Huang: The Sacred Medicine for Nourishing Blood and Yin

Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Glutinosa) is the product of the steamed tubers of the plants Di Huang or Huai Di Huang from the Scrophulariaceae family. It has a sweet taste, a slightly warm nature, and is associated with the Liver and Kidney meridians. It is known for its effects of nourishing blood, enriching yin, benefiting … Read more