Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency
Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency
Educational content • Consult qualified TCM practitioners for diagnosis and treatment
Diagnostic Signs
Absence of coating
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Key Characteristic Symptoms
Diagnostic Considerations
Dry mouth, dry lips, epigastric discomfort and a tongue without coating are enough in and of themselves to diagnose Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency. Together with the feeling of fatigue (tiredness), they're the main symptoms for this pattern.
Causes & Pathology
Common Causes
A diet lacking in nourishment and protein or undereating can cause a Deficiency of Spleen and Stomach Qi. Bad eating habits like having meals at irregular times, eating on the go or while working or stressed can also cause this pattern.
Pathological Mechanism
Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency usually derives from Stomach and Spleen Qi Deficiency.
The Qi Deficiency in the Stomach progressively induces a Yin Deficiency since Stomach is the source of Yin. And since the Stomach and Spleen are such intrinsically linked Organs, deficiency in one induces deficiency in the other.
The symptoms are typical of Yin Deficiency: dry mouth and a desire to drink in small sips.
The dry lips and dry stools are a very distinctive sign of Spleen Yin Deficiency.
Treatment Approach
Treatment Principle
Tonify Stomach and Spleen Yin.
Recommended Herbal Formulas
Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations
Eat only cooked foods (nothing raw). Particularly beneficial ingredients include: rice, millet, meat (especially beef), winter squash, vegetables, azuki beans, congee and warm or room temperature drinks such as warm milk.
Avoid cold, raw vegetables and fruits, juices, iced drinks, ice cream and frozen yogurt, salads, uncooked foods and the excessive use of sugar and other sweeteners.
Avoid strenuous exercise. Favor light activities such as Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, swimming, walking or bicycling.
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