Protective Qi Deficiency
Protective Qi Deficiency
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Diagnostic Signs
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu), Soggy (Ru)
Key Characteristic Symptoms
Diagnostic Considerations
Spontaneous sweating, recurrent colds and pale complexion and floating, deficient, and soft pulse.
Causes & Pathology
Common Causes
chronic illnesses or long-term conditions deplete the body's energy
Factors such as long term lung disease or smoking can weaken Lung Qi.
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
Recommended Herbal Formulas
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