In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Dampness (湿, Shī) is a pathological factor that can disrupt the body's balance and lead to various health issues. It is one of the Six Evils (六邪, Liù Xié) or external pathogenic influences (alongside Wind, Cold, Heat, Dryness, and Summer Heat).
Characteristics of Dampness in TCM
Heavy & Sluggish – Dampness slows down Qi flow, causing fatigue, heaviness in the body, and mental fog.
Sticky & Difficult to Remove – Symptoms often feel stubborn, like sticky stool, persistent mucus, or chronic digestive issues.
Tends to Sink – Dampness affects the lower body first, leading to swollen legs, bloating, loose stools, or vaginal discharge.
Affects Digestion – The Spleen is the organ most affected, leading to poor appetite, bloating, nausea, and loose stools.
Can Transform into Phlegm – When prolonged, Dampness can turn into Phlegm, manifesting as sinus congestion, coughing with mucus, or cystic acne.
Causes of Dampness
Diet: Excessive consumption of greasy, cold, raw, or sweet foods.
Environment: Living in humid conditions or damp places.
Weak Spleen Function: The Spleen transforms fluids; if weak, it leads to fluid retention.
Emotional Stress: Worry or overthinking weakens the Spleen, leading to Damp accumulation.
Types of Dampness
External Dampness – Comes from environmental factors, like living in a humid place.
Internal Dampness – Develops due to poor digestion, weak Spleen, or dietary habits.
Damp-Heat – A combination of Dampness and Heat, causing symptoms like yellow, sticky phlegm, skin rashes, or urinary infections.
Damp-Cold – A combination of Dampness and Cold, leading to cold limbs, watery stools, and bloating.
How to Clear Dampness
Diet: Avoid cold/raw/greasy foods; eat warm, cooked foods like ginger, barley, adzuki beans, and green tea.
Exercise: Movement helps Qi flow and removes stagnation.
Acupuncture & Herbs: TCM herbs like Fu Ling (Poria), Yi Yi Ren (Job’s Tears), and Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel) help drain Dampness.
Avoid Overthinking: Since the Spleen is linked to the mind, reducing stress benefits digestion.
Dampness is a common issue in TCM that can manifest in various ways, from digestive discomfort and fatigue to sinus congestion and vaginal discharge. By nourishing the Spleen, balancing internal organs, and avoiding damp-inducing habits, the body can regain harmony and proper Qi flow.
❌This information is only educational and should not be construed as medical advice. Everything must be balanced, and the suggestions may not apply to you. A specialist doctor should be consulted for any medical advice or diagnosis.
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