Understanding the ‘Cold, Hot, Warm, and Cool’ Properties of Foods in TCM

Understanding the 'Cold, Hot, Warm, and Cool' Properties of Foods in TCM

Foods possess four properties: cold, hot, warm, and cool, also known as the “Four Qi”. Generally, we can determine the “Four Qi” of foods based on their taste, growth environment, and geographical location. In terms of taste, foods with a stimulating flavor tend to be more pungent and warm, such as garlic, ginger, cilantro, and … Read more

The Four Qi Hidden in Medicine and Food

The Four Qi Hidden in Medicine and Food

The “Four Qi” originally referred to the “Qi of the Four Seasons” and gradually evolved to signify the perception of the cold and heat of food, ultimately transforming into the cold and heat properties of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Traditional Chinese medicine holds that the Four Qi consists of four different medicinal properties: cold (han), … Read more