The spleen and stomach in traditional Chinese medicine are considered the fundamental postnatal organs of the human body, responsible for processing, transforming, and absorbing nutrients. If their function is not optimal, it can lead to a series of health issues, summarized as “1 foul, 1 pain, 3 yellow”.
Bad breath is a common manifestation of spleen and stomach dysfunction, originating from the accumulation of dampness in the body turning into heat, which may lead to oral or gum problems. Additionally, thickening of the tongue coating is also a contributing factor.
Stomach pain is a direct signal of the affected digestive system, indigestion, and abnormal stomach acid secretion can cause pain, affecting the quality of life.
The “3 yellows” include dark complexion, yellow and thick tongue coating, and dark urine, reflecting spleen and stomach weakness or the accumulation of damp-heat in the body, affecting nutrient absorption and fluid metabolism.
Balancing the spleen and stomach requires a multi-faceted approach:
– In terms of diet, it is advisable to choose light, easily digestible, and nutritious foods, such as millet congee, Chinese yam, etc., reduce the intake of stimulating foods, and maintain a regular diet.
– Moderate exercise, such as Tai Chi, walking, promote blood circulation, but avoid excess.
– Maintain regular routines and adequate sleep, avoid staying up late, which is beneficial to the spleen and stomach.
– Emotional management, maintain a cheerful mood, use meditation and other methods to reduce stress.
– Massage specific acupoints, such as ST36, CV12, SP6, to help alleviate symptoms, using gentle techniques.
– Chinese herbal medicine assistance, under professional guidance, use herbs like Codonopsis, Astragalus for nourishing, enhance spleen and stomach function, but remember not to misuse without proper guidance.
Maintaining the health of the spleen and stomach is crucial not only for daily comfort but also for overall health. Therefore, attention to and care for them in daily life are indispensable.
