Whenever the body feels heavy, or when the circulation of qi and blood is obstructed leading to the accumulation of phlegm and dampness, it often accompanies a strong fire condition. Although it may seem complicated, in reality, these are interconnected. At this time, through dialectical treatment, it is usually necessary to harmonize qi and blood, eliminate phlegm and dampness, and reduce fire comprehensively in order to achieve the therapeutic goal.
【Six Depressions】
The six depressions refer to qi depression, blood depression, phlegm depression, dampness depression, fire depression, and food depression. They interact with each other, easily leading to symptoms such as chest stuffiness, abdominal distention, belching, acid regurgitation, nausea, loss of appetite, and greasy tongue coating. The frequent use of Yue Ju Pills in regulation, the use of Xiang Fu as the “chief commander of qi diseases,” adept at soothing the liver and resolving depression, regulating qi, and relieving pain; Chuan Xiong, a blood and qi-invigorating herb, promotes blood circulation and regulates qi, which acts effectively on blood stasis and qi stagnation; Cang Zhu, dries dampness and invigorates the spleen; Six Shen Qu, resolves food accumulation, improves food depression; and Gardenia treats the symptoms of heat caused by the six depressions, is a good method to regulate qi, and facilitate the circulation of qi and blood.
【Treatment Plan for Six Depressions Mainly Qi Depression】
When the body is mainly stagnant in qi circulation, leading to the six depressions, the main focus of treatment is on soothing the liver, resolving depression, and harmonizing qi circulation. In this case, the use of Chai Hu Shu Gan San and Yue Ju Wan is a relatively effective solution.
Chai Hu Shu Gan San is effective in regulating liver qi, promoting the smooth flow of qi circulation, and easing symptoms such as chest stuffiness and abdominal distention; while Yue Ju Wan comprehensively regulates the six depressions. The combination of the two can enhance the effect of soothing the liver and resolving depression, as well as addressing the six depressions.
If the stagnation in qi circulation is severe, add Qing Pi, Yu Jin, and other herbs that soothe the liver and resolve depression; if there are obvious symptoms of blood stasis, add Tao Ren, Hong Hua, etc.; if there is heavy dampness, add Ban Xia; if there is strong fire condition, add Huang Lian; if there is significant food depression, add Mai Ya, Shan Zha, and other herbs that resolve food accumulation.
Furthermore, maintain regular daily routines; favor light and non-greasy diet; engage in moderate exercise to promote the circulation of qi and blood; and avoid emotional suppression, which is also crucial in preventing the six depressions.
