Pattern Empty

Protective Qi Deficiency

Wèi Qì Xū 卫气虚
Affects: Pericardium Kidney

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Diagnostic Signs

Pulse

Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu), Soggy (Ru)

Diagnostic Considerations

Spontaneous sweating, recurrent colds and pale complexion and floating, deficient, and soft pulse.

Causes & Pathology

Common Causes

Pathological Mechanism

This pattern is characterized by a weakness in the body's external defenses due to a Deficiency in Protective Qi. The Lungs, which govern qi, skin, and body hair, play a crucial role in guarding the body against pathogenic influences by controlling the protective qi. They regulate the opening and closing of the interstices and pores on the skin.

In this pattern, weak Lung qi fails to stabilize the body's superficial aspects, leading to improperly closed interstices and pores. This manifests as spontaneous sweating and an aversion to drafts, indicating the body's vulnerability to external pathogenic influences, such as recurrent colds.

The patient typically presents with a shiny, pale complexion and a pale tongue, both indicative of Qi Deficiency. The pulse in this condition is floating, deficient, and soft, reflecting the weakened state of the body's energy, particularly at the superficial level. This pattern underscores the need for treatments that strengthen the protective qi and enhance the body's external defenses.

Treatment Approach

Treatment Principle

Strengthen the Qi, stabilize the Exterior, stop sweating

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Pattern Relationships

Derives From

Qi Deficiency

Related TCM Concepts

Qi Deficiency / Empty