In early autumn, humidity reaches its peak of the year, posing a threat to health, leading to decreased appetite, bloating, diarrhea, and other issues. Besides these common symptoms, excessive dampness also manifests in other ways. Next, let’s explore the specific indications of excessive dampness and effective ways to dispel dampness through acupressure and dietary adjustments.
When observing the body condition, the tongue serves as an important signal. Individuals with excess dampness may have tooth imprints on the tongue edges, a white or yellow coating on the tongue surface, which is thicker than normal. Additionally, bowel movements are also indicative; when dampness is excessive, stools appear loose, sticky, difficult to clean, with a sensation of incomplete evacuation, and urine appears cloudy. Furthermore, these individuals often feel mentally fatigued, despite having sufficient sleep.
In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion is considered an effective method to enhance the constitution and dispel dampness. Several key acupoints such as Guan Yuan, Zhong Wan, Feng Long, Jie Xi, He Gu, and Qu Chi, through moxibustion, can promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood, invigorate the spleen and dispel dampness, relieving various discomforts caused by dampness. For example, Guan Yuan helps regulate Qi and blood and tonify the kidneys; Zhong Wan can alleviate stomach disorders; Feng Long is good at dispelling dampness and invigorating the spleen. However, pregnant women or those with weak constitutions should seek professional advice before moxibustion.
In terms of dietary therapy, a recommended soup for clearing heat and dispelling dampness is suggested. Ingredients include Poria cocos and Polygonatum 250 grams each, Adzuki beans and Mung beans 50 grams each, paired with half a piece of dried tangerine peel, slow-cooked in 8 bowls of water for 3 hours. This soup can effectively remove internal damp-heat and is suitable for individuals with heat-toxicity or excessive dampness in the body.
Overall, in combating dampness, besides dietary therapy, cupping and moxibustion are also feasible methods, but should be cautiously chosen based on individual circumstances. Moderately using the aforementioned acupoints for moxibustion or preparing homemade damp-dispelling soup are both effective ways to improve excessive dampness.
