Chinese Nutrition Therapy Dietetics in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Page intentionally left blank B Thieme About the Author

Joerg Kastner, M.D., L.Ac., was born in 1963 in Germany. He practices naturopathy, homeopathy, sports medicine, pain therapy, acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and nutritional therapy in a joint practice in Weßling, near Munich, Germany. He provides naturopathic care for professional athletes, including the German Bundesliga soccer team Schalke 04. Dr. Kastner studied medicine in Münster and Bochum and received further training in internal medicine, sports medicine, and naturopathy. He studied acupuncture and TCM at several renowned national and international institutes, including the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Guangxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Lately he has been appointed as guest lecturer to Guangxi College. Dr. Kastner is head of acupuncture education at the Academy for Continuing Medical Education (Akademie für Ärztliche Fortbildung) of the State Medical Board of Registration, Westfalen-Lippe, Germany. He is also the founder and medical director of the Academy for Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (Academie für Akupunktur und TCM, or afat, in Bavaria). He frequently gives talks and teaches seminars with the goal of familiarizing physicians and practitioners with the concepts of TCM and broadening its application in Western medicine.

For Luisa and Max Chinese Nutrition Therapy Dietetics in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Joerg Kastner, M.D., L.Ac. Private Practice Wessling, Germany

Thieme Stuttgart · New York IV

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Important note: Medicine is an ever-changing science undergoing continual development. Research and clinical Kastner, Jörg, 1963- experience are continually expanding our knowledge, in [Propädeutik der chinesischen Diätetik. English] particular our knowledge of proper treatment and drug Chinese nutrition therapy : dietetics in traditional therapy. Insofar as this book mentions any dosage or appli- Chinese medicine (TCM) / Jörg Kastner. p. ; cm cation, readers may rest assured that the authors, editors, “An authorized and revised translation of the 2nd and publishers have made every effort to ensure that such German edition revised and copyrighted 2003 by references are in accordance with the state of knowledge Hippokrates Verlag, Stuttgart, Germany”—t.p. verso. at the time of production of the book. Includes bibliographical references and index. Nevertheless, this does not involve, imply, or express ISBN 1–58890–107–6 (alk. paper) — any guarantee or responsibility on the part of the publishers ISBN 3–13–130961–X (alk. paper) in respect to any dosage instructions and forms of applica- 1. Dietetics. 2. Medicine, Chinese, 3. Diet therapy, tions stated in the book. Every user is requested to exam- 4. Nutrition. ine carefully the manufacturers’ leaflets accompanying [DNLM: 1. Nutrition Therapy—methods. 2. Diet. each drug and to check, if necessary in consultation with a 3. Medicine, Chinese Traditional. WB 400 K192p 2004] physician or specialist, whether the dosage schedules I. Title mentioned therein or the contraindications stated by the RM217.K3313 2004 manufacturers differ from the statements made in the 613.2—dc22 present book. Such examination is particularly important 2004009720 with drugs that are either rarely used or have been newly released on the market. Every dosage schedule or every This book is an authorized and revised translation of the form of application used is entirely at the user’s own risk 2nd German edition published and copyrighted 2003 by and responsibility. The authors and publishers request Hippokrates Verlag, Stuttgart, Germany. Title of the Ger- every user to report to the publishers any discrepancies or man edition: Propädeutik der Chinesischen Diätetik inaccuracies noticed.

Original translator: Anika Moje, Portland OR, USA Translator/editor: Johanna Cummings-Pertl, Ukiah CA, USA

Joerg Kastner, M.D., L.Ac. www.afat.de [email protected]

© 2004 Georg Thieme Verlag, Some of the product names, patents, and registered designs Rüdigerstrasse 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany referred to in this book are in fact registered trademarks or http://www.thieme.de proprietary names even though specific reference to this Thieme New York, 333 Seventh Avenue, fact is not always made in the text. Therefore, the appear- New York, NY 10001 USA ance of a name without designation as proprietary is not to http://www.thieme.com be construed as a representation by the publisher that it is in the public domain. Typesetting by Fotosatz Sauter GmbH, Donzdorf This book, including all parts thereof, is legally pro- Printed in Germany by Druckhaus Götz, Ludwigsburg tected by copyright. Any use, exploitation, or commercial- ization outside the narrow limits set by copyright legislation, without the publisher’s consent, is illegal and liable to prosecution. This applies in particular to photostat ISBN 3–13–130961–X (GTV) reproduction, copying, mimeographing, preparation of ISBN 1–58890–107–6 (TNY) 12345 microfilms, and electronic data processing and storage. V Contents

About this Book ...... XI

1 Theory...... 1

A Introduction to the Basic Cold...... 15 Principles of Traditional Chinese Dampness ...... 16 Medicine and Chinese Dietetics . . . 3 Heat ...... 16 Dryness (Zao) ...... 16 Yin and Yang ...... 3 Internal Factors, “The Five Minds (Emotions)” (Wu Shi)...... 16 Therapeutic Principles of TCM...... 7 Yin And Yang are Opposites ...... 7 Traditional Chinese Nutrition Theory...... 17 Yin And Yang are Divisible but Inseparable The Qi Energy Concept of TCM ...... 17 (Yin Yang Ke Fen Er Bu Ke Li)...... 7 Congenital Constitution Essence (Jing) . . . . 17 Gu Qi (Drum Qi, or Food Qi) ...... 18 Yin And Yang are Rooted in Each Other Ancestral (Air) Qi (Zong Qi)...... 18 (Yin Yang Hu Gen) ...... 7 Yin And Yang Counterbalance Each Other Function of the Triple Burner (San Jiao) . . . . 20 (Yin Yang Zhi Yue) ...... 7 Yin And Yang Mutually Transform Each B Methodology of Nutritional Other ...... 8 Therapy ...... 21 The Five Phases (Wu Xing)...... 9 Energetics of Food ...... 21 The Five Basic Substances ...... 10 Energetic Thermal Nature...... 22 Life Force—Qi ...... 10 Hot ...... 23 Function ...... 10 Dysfunction ...... 10 Warm ...... 23 Congenital Essence—Jing ...... 11 Neutral...... 23 Function...... 11 Cool ...... 23 Dysfunction ...... 11 Cold ...... 23 Blood—Xue ...... 12 “Yang Foods” ...... 24 Function...... 12 Qi Vacuity ...... 24 Dysfunction ...... 12 Yang Vacuity ...... 24 Spirit—Shen ...... 13 “Yin Foods” ...... 24 Function...... 13 Yin Vacuity ...... 24 Dysfunction ...... 13 Yang Repletion ...... 24 Body Fluids—Jin Ye ...... 13 Function...... 13 The Five Flavors (Wu Wei) ...... 25 Dysfunction ...... 13 Sweet Flavor...... 26 Acrid Flavor ...... 26 Causes of Diseases ...... 15 Salty Flavor...... 27 External Bioclimatic Factors or Impediments ...... 15 Sour Flavor ...... 27 Wind...... 15 Bitter Flavor ...... 27 VI Contents

Flavor Association with Organ Networks . . 29 Frying and Roasting ...... 32 Example: Carrot ...... 30 Steaming ...... 32 Qi Movement Caused by Food: Grilling/Broiling/Barbecue ...... 32 Food Direction ...... 30 Boiling/Simmering ...... 32 Upbearing Movement ...... 30 Cooking with Alcohol ...... 33 Floating Movement ...... 30 Downbearing Movement ...... 30 Boiling with Plentiful Water ...... 33 Falling Movement ...... 30 Cooking with Cooling Ingredients (e.g., Fruit, Sprouts) ...... 33 Influencing the Thermal Nature of Foods . . 31 Slow, Gentle Frying (Braising) ...... 33 Cooling Cooking Methods ...... 31 Salting (Pickling in Brine) ...... 33 Warming Cooking Methods ...... 31 Smoking ...... 33 Seasoning ...... 33 Cooking Methods in Detail...... 32 Baking ...... 32 Meal Preparation in Tune with the Five Blanching ...... 32 Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) .35

2 Chinese Dietetics in Practice...... 37

Basic Recommendations of Nutrition and Seasonal Rhythms ...... 45 Chinese Dietetics ...... 39 Spring...... 45 The Path to Healthy Eating Habits ...... 39 Summer (Hot Season) ...... 45 Inner Attitude and Environment ...... 39 Autumn ...... 46 Eating with Enjoyment and in a Relaxed Winter (Cold Season)...... 46 Atmosphere ...... 39 General Recommendations ...... 39 Nutrition and Pathogenic Factors ...... 47 Cooking Methods ...... 39 Cold ...... 47 Food Quantity ...... 40 Heat ...... 47 Food Quality ...... 40 Flavor ...... 40 Dampness ...... 47 Energetic Thermal Quality ...... 40 Dryness ...... 47 External Wind ...... 47 Special Significance of the Earth Phase . . . . 42 Wind–Cold ...... 48 “Strengthening the Inner Center”...... 42 Wind–Heat ...... 48 Internal Wind ...... 48 Nutrition and Daily Rhythms ...... 44 Breakfast ...... 44 Nutrition and the Human Life Cycle ...... 49 Lunch ...... 44 Children and Young People ...... 49 Evening Meal/Dinner...... 44 Midlife ...... 49 Older People...... 49 Contents VII

3 Practical Application of Chinese Dietetics ...... 51

A General Applications of Chinese ¢ Stomach Qi Vacuity (Wei Qi Xu) ...... 73 Dietetics...... 53 ¢ Stomach Yin Vacuity (Wei Yin Xu) ...... 74 ¢ Stomach Qi Vacuity with Cold Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional (Wei Qi Xu Han)...... 75 Advice ...... 53 ¢ Food Stagnating in the Stomach The Role of Chinese Nutrition in Traditional (Shi Zhi Wei Wan) ...... 76 ¢ Chinese Medicine (TCM)...... 53 Stomach Fire (Wei Re) ...... 76

General Indications for Chinese Dietetics . . . . 53 Organ Network: ...... 78 Don’t Worry about Dogmatism ...... 54 Bowel (Zang Organ): Lung (Fei), LU ...... 78 Tips for Giving Nutritional Advice ...... 54 Viscera (Fu Organ): Large Intestine General Nutritional Recommendations (Da Chang) ...... 78 (for sharing with patients) ...... 56 Organ Network Lung–Large Intestine ...... 78 Application Areas ...... 56 Nutrition and Organ Network ...... 79 ¢ General Qi Vacuity ...... 57 ¢ General Yang Vacuity ...... 58 Lung Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition...... 79 ¢ General Yin Vacuity ...... 58 ¢ Lung Qi Vacuity (Fei Qi Xu)...... 79 ¢ Yin Repletion (Excess) and Dampness . . . . . 59 ¢ Phlegm–Damp Obstructing the Lung ¢ Yang Repletion (Excess) Conditions ...... 59 (Tan Shi Zu Fei) ...... 80 ¢ Blood Vacuity (Xue Xu) ...... 60 ¢ Lung Yin Vacuity (Fei Yin Xu)...... 82 ¢ Strengthening Defense Qi (Wei Qi) ...... 62 ¢ Supplementing Lung Qi ...... 64 Organ Network: ...... 83 ¢ Dampness and Phlegm Conditions ...... 64 Bowel (Zang Organ): Kidney (Shen), KI ...... 83 Viscera (Fu Organ): Bladder (Pang Guang). . . . 83 Organ Network Kidney–Bladder...... 83 B Application of Chinese Dietetics Kidney Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition. . . . 84 for Specific Conditions ...... 67 ¢ Kidney Qi Vacuity (Shen Qi Xu) ...... 85 ¢ Kidney Yang Vacuity (Shen Yang Xu)...... 85 ...... 67 Network: ¢ Kidney Yin Vacuity (Shen Yin Xu) ...... 86 Bowel (Zang Organ): Spleen/Pancreas (Pi), Kidney Yin Vacuity (Shen Yin Xu), Heart Yin SP ...... 67 Vacuity (Xin Yin Xu), Noninteraction of the Viscera (Fu Organ): Stomach (Wei) ST...... 67 Heart and Kidney (Xin Shen Bu Jiao) ...... 88 Tasks and Functions of Spleen/Pancreas and Stomach...... 67 Organ Network: ...... 90 Governance of Body Fluids and Liquids . . . 68 Bowel (Zang Organ): Liver (Gan), LR ...... 90 Production and Retention of Blood ...... 68 Viscera (Fu Organ): Gallbladder (Dan), GB. . . . 90 Governance of Connective Tissue ...... 69 Organ Network Liver–Gallbladder ...... 90 Special Diet for Spleen/ Nutrition and Organ Network ...... 90 Pancreas–Stomach Network ...... 69 Liver Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition...... 91 Spleen Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition . . . . 69 ¢ Binding Depression of Liver Qi ¢ Spleen Qi Vacuity (Pi Qi Xu)...... 69 (Gan Qi Yu Jie)...... 91 ¢ Spleen Yang Vacuity (Pi Yang Xu)...... 69 ¢ Ascendant Liver Yang Organ Network Spleen/ (Gan Yang Shang Kang) ...... 92 Pancreas–Stomach ...... 71 ¢ Liver Fire Flaming Upward General Causes of Stomach Dysfunction. . . 72 (Gan Huo Shang Yan) ...... 94 Stomach Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition . . 73 ¢ Liver Yin Vacuity (Gan Yin Xu)...... 94 VIII Contents

¢ Liver Blood Vacuity Nutrition and Organ Network ...... 97 (Gan Xue Xu) ...... 95 Heart Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition . . . . . 98 ¢ Heart Yang Vacuity (Xin Yang Xu) ...... 98 Organ Network: ...... 97 ¢ Heart Blood Vacuity (Xin Xue Xu)...... 99 Bowel (Zang Organ): Heart (Xin), HT...... 97 ¢ Heart Yin Vacuity (Xin Yin Xu) ...... 100 Viscera (Fu Organ): Small Intestine ¢ Heart Fire Flaming Upward (Xiao Chang) ...... 97 (Xin Huo Shang Yan) ...... 101 Organ Network Heart–Small Intestine ...... 97

4 Food Classification...... 103

Vegetables ...... 105 Coriander ...... 121 Bamboo Sprouts ...... 105 Ginger, Fresh or Dried ...... 122 Cabbage ...... 106 Garlic ...... 123 Chinese Cabbage (Napa Cabbage) ...... 106 Mushrooms ...... 124 Cucumber ...... 107 Pepper (Seasoning) ...... 124 Eggplant (Aubergine)...... 107 Salt ...... 125 Green Onions (Spring Onions) ...... 108 Seaweed (General) ...... 125 Leek ...... 108 Soy Sauce ...... 126 Lettuce ...... 109 Sweeteners: Brown or Whole Cane Sugar . . . . 126 Lotus Root ...... 109 Sweeteners: Honey ...... 127 Onion ...... 110 Sweeteners: Malt Sugar–Maltose–Malt Spinach ...... 110 Syrup ...... 127 Sweet Potato ...... 111 Sweeteners: White Sugar ...... 128 Tomato...... 111 Vinegar ...... 128

Grains and Soy ...... 113 Fruit ...... 129 Barley ...... 114 Apple ...... 129 Buckwheat ...... 114 Apricot...... 130 Corn ...... 115 Banana ...... 130 Millet ...... 115 Cherry ...... 131 Oats ...... 116 Grapefruit, Pomelo ...... 132 Rice (White and Brown) ...... 116 Grapes ...... 132 Rye ...... 117 Kiwi ...... 133 Spelt ...... 117 Lemon ...... 134 Soybean, Black...... 118 Orange ...... 134 Soybean, Yellow ...... 118 Peach ...... 135 Wheat ...... 119 Pear...... 135 Pineapple ...... 136 Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments. . . 120 Plum ...... 136 Chili ...... 120 Watermelon ...... 137 Cinnamon ...... 121 Contents IX

Meat and Poultry ...... 138 Dairy Products, Eggs, Oils and Fats ...... 149 Beef...... 138 Butter and Cream ...... 150 Beef Liver ...... 139 Cow Milk...... 150 Chicken ...... 139 Cow Milk Cheese...... 151 Chicken Liver ...... 140 Chicken Eggs ...... 151 Duck ...... 140 Goat and Sheep Milk ...... 152 Lamb, Mutton, Sheep...... 141 Goat and Sheep Milk Cheese ...... 152 Pork ...... 141 Peanut Oil ...... 153 Rabbit/Hare ...... 142 Sesame Oil ...... 153 Venison (Deer)...... 142 Soybean Oil...... 154 Yogurt ...... 154 Fish/Sea Food...... 143 Anchovies ...... 143 Nuts and Seeds ...... 155 Carp ...... 144 Almonds ...... 155 Crab ...... 144 Black Sesame ...... 156 Eel ...... 145 Chestnut ...... 156 Herring ...... 145 Hazelnut ...... 157 Mackerel ...... 145 Peanut ...... 157 Mussels ...... 146 Pine Nuts...... 158 Oysters...... 146 Sunflower Seeds ...... 158 Prawns/Crayfish/Lobster...... 146 Alcoholic Beverages, Coffee and Tea ...... 159 Sardines...... 147 Alcoholic Beverages ...... 159 Squid, Octopus...... 147 Coffee...... 160 Trout...... 148 Tea...... 160 Tuna ...... 148

5 Clinical Examples...... 163

Respiratory Tract Disorders ...... 165 Main Symptom: Epigastric Disorders ...... 190 Main Symptom: Colds ...... 165 Main Symptom: Nausea and Emesis Bronchitis/Chronic Bronchitis ...... 168 (Vomiting) ...... 194 Main Symptom: Cough ...... 171 Main Symptom: Meteorism (Abdominal Distension) ...... 200 Main Symptom: Sore Throat ...... 174 Main Symptom: Hiccough, Singult Main Symptom: Frontal Sinusitis and (Sighing, Sobbing)...... 202 Maxillary Sinusitis ...... 176

Bronchial Asthma ...... 180 Cardiovascular Disorders ...... 203 Gastrointestinal Disorders ...... 184 General Weakness, Lack of Energy, Low Blood Pressure...... 203 Main Symptom: Diarrhea...... 184 Main Symptom: Hypertension Main Symptom: Constipation ...... 187 (High Blood Pressure) ...... 205 X Contents

Eye Disorders ...... 209 Main Symptom: Cystitis Inflammation...... 209 (Urinary Tract Infections/Inflammation) . . . . . 214 Incontinence, Enuresis (Bedwetting), Skin Disorders ...... 210 Frequent Micturition (Urination) ...... 216 Neurodermatitis ...... 210 Impotence, Weak Libido ...... 217 Acne ...... 212 Gynecological Disorders ...... 218 Urogenital Disorders...... 214 Morning Sickness During Pregnancy ...... 218

6 Chinese Dietetics At a Glance ...... 221

Foods Classified by Phase/ Phase: Wood Organ Network ...... 223 Organ Network: Liver–Gallbladder ...... 233 Phase: Earth Phase: Fire Organ Network: Spleen/Pancreas, Stomach . . 223 Organ Network: Heart–Small Intestine ...... 236 Phase: Metal Foods from A to Z ...... 238 Organ Network: Lung–Large Intestine ...... 228 Phase: Water Organ Network: Kidney–Bladder ...... 231

7 Glossary...... 251

Further Reading...... 256

Index ...... 257 XI

“Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food.” Hippocrates, ca. 460–ca. 370 BC

About this Book

The concepts of Chinese nutrition, or the effects of for example, the simple balancing of hot and cold: food on our health, have a 3000-year tradition in Cold weather is balanced by eating foods that have China. Records dating back as far as the third cen- a warming effect on the body, such as ginger tea, tury BC state that there was little difference garlic, fennel, oats, lamb, salmon, etc. Hot weather between the application of foods and that of medi- is balanced by eating cooling foods such as raw cine. Recipes for foods were often similar to those fruit and vegetables, salads or, barley. for medicines. This knowledge of the healing qualities of food A quote by a famous fourteenth-century physician was practiced and treasured in our own culture describes the role of Chinese nutrition within Tra- until recently, but has gotten lost in the trend ditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): “Doctors first toward “fast food.” Similar connections between have to find the cause for an illness and determine food and medicine have been made since antiq- which disharmony prevails. To balance this dishar- uity. Hippocrates recommended “Let food be your mony, the first and foremost measure is appropri- medicine and medicine be your food.” Hildegard von ate diet. It is not until this measure bears no results Bingen, the eleventh-century German visionary that one should use medicines.” naturalist and healer, used foods for healing by Chinese nutritional therapy is closely related to devising energetic classifications that are surpris- acupuncture and medicinal plant medicine and ingly similar to Chinese food classifications. Even follows the same diagnostic principles. It focuses the original meaning of the word “dietetics,” on the qualitative effects of foods on the body. The drawn from the Greek “diaita”—“life care” or “art term “qi,” which has many meanings in Chinese, of living”—shows the comprehensive meaning of including life force or life energy, is of vital signifi- diet as supporting life. cance in this context. Health is an expression of Western nutritional therapy, a relatively young sci- balanced qi; disease occurs when qi is unbalanced. ence, applies primarily quantitative criteria to The body extracts and absorbs qi from food. Foods, food. It classifies food by nutrients such as carbo- therefore, are mild therapeutic agents that help hydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, trace elements, the body stay balanced, or bring it back into bal- and minerals. For diabetes, for example, it pre- ance. Food classification follows the same criteria scribes a quantitative diet that measures the used for Chinese medicinal herbs: thermal nature, glycemic index of foods. However, there is increas- flavor, organ network, and direction of energy ing interest in the qualitative aspects of foods in flow. the Western world, in part due to the rapid Chinese culture reflects an awareness of the heal- increase of food-related illnesses and the obser- ing qualities of food as a kind of folk wisdom, even vation that people can react very differently and today. Food and health are favorite topics of con- very strongly to the same food. Like acupuncture versation. “Did you eat well today?” replaces and medicinal plant therapy, Chinese nutritional “Hello” as a popular greeting. What we regard as therapy can offer valuable perspectives in this con- complicated is practiced on a daily basis in China, text. XII About this book

Current Western scientific methods are not yet for moving forward and making progress. Chinese able to offer plausible explanations for the concept nutrition is a great—and delicious—method for of energetics in Chinese nutrition. This difficulty in taking a closer look at what we eat and for looking dealing with unfamiliar concepts starts with the beyond what we know and are used to. It chal- term qi, which is viewed with intellectual skepti- lenges us to practical experimentation, because cism in the West. Qi, however, can be experienced only those who put theory into practice by cooking through the practice of qi gong (a healing art that will profit—in body and soul! combines movement and meditation). Have fun and enjoy your meal! With this book, I would like to awaken the curios- ity in my readers that has always been the spark Herrsching, Spring 2004 Joerg Kastner

Acknowledgements

A heartfelt “thank you” to my parents, who gave Ulrike, who has stood by me and supported me me the freedom to walk uncommon paths, and to all the way and who demonstrates to me continu- my teachers, who showed me the way. My grati- ally the culinary, sensual pleasures of Chinese tude also goes out to my patients, who time and nutrition. A big “thank you” also goes out to my time again have proven to me how consistent inte- editor Angelika-M. Findgott for providing such gration of Chinese nutrition into our daily diet valuable guidance and showing so much editorial helps overcome illness and creates health. I am patience, and to Johanna Cummings-Pertl, for her also grateful to all the people who have attended meticulous editing of the English translation of my seminars, for their willingness to be inspired this book, and for offering many suggestions for by this initially rather unfamiliar body of thought improvements. Together, they made the U.S. edi- and to practice its principles in their own life and tion of this book even better than the German with their patients. I especially thank my wife, original. XIII Structure and Use of this Book

The first chapter of this book, “Introduction to the with the treating physician and should be harmo- Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine nized with Western methods of treatment. My and Chinese Dietetics,” introduces Chinese nutri- practice, however, has proven to me repeatedly tion theory using practical examples. Chapters 2 that Chinese nutrition is an excellent complement and 3 introduce Chinese dietetics in practice. to Western treatments and also offers outstanding Chapter 2 covers key dietary concepts such as synergies with other naturopathic therapies. healthy eating habits and eating in harmony with In this book, I have consciously avoided the use of seasonal and constitutional factors. Chapter 3 out- Chinese medicinal plants in recipes. While com- lines nutritional therapy for the most important monly used in China, Chinese herbal therapy pathological processes and provides an overview requires many years of experience and a high level and orientation framework for symptoms and of education on the part of the practitioner, as well diagnosis. as reliable quality control of the preparations used. Chapter 4, “Food Classification,” is based on a vari- For the reader in a hurry, Chapter 6 provides charts ety of source texts and applies their concepts to of the most commonly used foods grouped by the most common “Western” foods. Here you will organ network. “Foods from A to Z” offers a quick find detailed information about the nature and use guide to the key characteristics of the most com- of foods and food groups in nutritional therapy. In mon foods. case of contradictions between the authors The glossary in Chapter 7 provides definitions of regarding classification, I endeavored to classify the English terms most frequently used in this foods according to my own clinical experience. book and lists their Chinese translations. The The clinical examples in Chapter 5, “Analogy of terminology used in this book is based on “A Prac- Western Diagnoses with Syndromes in Traditional tical Dictionary of Chinese Medicine” by Nigel Chinese Medicine (TCM),” intend to establish a Wiseman and Feng Ye (Paradigm Publications, bridge to Chinese syndrome diagnosis. By their 1998, 2nd edition). Thieme International, in choos- very nature, these offer abridged and incomplete ing this dictionary as its standard, recognizes the introductions to a very large field of knowledge. monumental contributions that Nigel Wiseman They are designed to encourage Western practitio- and Feng Ye have made to the standardization ners to combine Western with Eastern thinking. of TCM terminology in the English-speaking Lay readers are advised that for disorders such as world. For more information on terminology, see hypertension, asthma, Crohn disease, etc., any Chapter 7. therapeutic measure should always be discussed Page intentionally left blank 1Theory

A Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics...... 3

B Methodology of Nutritional Therapy ...... 21 Page intentionally left blank 3

Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional A Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

Yin and Yang

The basic principles of Traditional Chinese Medi- The standard of TCM, the Huang Di Nei Jing, “The cine (TCM) are rooted in the Taoist philosophy of Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine,” dates as far yin and yang. These two polar opposites organize back as 500–300 BC. This 18-volume classic work and explain the ongoing process of natural change has two parts, Ling Shu and Su We. The Su Wen and transformation in the universe. explains the theoretical foundations of TCM in the According to ancient lore, yang marks the sunny form of a dialogue between the legendary Yellow side and yin the shady side of a hill. In the theory of Emperor Huan Di and his personal physician Shi yin and yang, all things and phenomena of the Po. cosmos contain these two complementary The Ling Shu, the practical part of the Nei Jing, aspects. The traditional Taoist symbol for com- reports on therapies and their uses in TCM: acu- pleteness and harmony is the merging monad of puncture, moxibustion, nutritional therapy, and yin and yang. the use of medicinal herbs. TCM is rooted in the Taoist worldview employed by physicians and philosophers for centuries as a guide for viewing and interpreting natural phenomena. Tao means harmony–destination–way, the “all-in- one,” the origin of the world. The teachings of Tao- ism are based on the work Tao te King (Tao te Ching), “The Book of the Way and of Virtue,” by the famous Chinese scholar Lao Tse (600 BC). Guided by the Taoist perspective, “natural scien- tists” took the findings of these observations of nature and applied them to humans. They regarded the human being as a natural being, a part of nature, subject to and dependent on nature’s processes. The main principle of Tao is represented by the two polarities yin and yang, which, according to Taoist belief, mirror all phenomena in the uni- Fig. 1.1 Monad verse. 4 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics mIn Nature mIn People

Yin Yang Yin Yang Moon Sun Woman Man Shadow/night Light/day Right Left Dark Light Receptive Creative Passive Active Stomach, front Back, rear Water Fire From waist down From waist up Down Up Body interior Body surface Structure Function Viscera (storage organs) Bowels (hollow organs) zang (heart) fu (stomach) Right Left Organ structure Organ function Cold Hot Blood, body fluids Qi, life energy Plant-based foods Animal-based foods Bones/organs/ Skin/muscles/ Heaven Earth sinews body hair Autumn, winter Spring, summer Viscera Bowels Relative stasis Evident motion Gu qi (drum qi) Defense qi (wei qi) Heavy Light Controlling vessel Governing vessel (ren mai) (du mai) Yin and Yang 5 mIn Diagnostics mIn Diagnostics and Therapy

Yin Yang Yin Yang Quiet voice Loud voice Vacuity, interior, cold Repletion, exterior, symptoms heat symptoms Talks little Talks a lot Inadequate circula- Blood repletion Pale face Red face tion Shivering, sensation Warm, sensation of Hypofunction Hyperfunction of cold heat (underfunction) (overfunction) Likes warmth Likes cold Flaccid muscles Tense muscles Slow, reticent Fast, strong Depression disorders States of agitation movements movements Low blood pressure High blood pressure Passive, insidious Active, acute onset of (hypotension) (hypertension) onset of illness illness Dull pain Sharp pain Chronic illness Acute illness Cool Warm Urine: Urine: clear, frequent Dark, concentrated Beta-blockers Caffeine Tongue: Tongue: Cool packs Fango (hot packs) pale, white fur Red, yellow fur Pulse: Pulse: Pulse: Pulse: Slow, deep, rough, Rapid, floating, slip- Slow, weak Rapid, replete vacuous, fine pery, replete, large, surging

mIn Chinese Nutrition

Yin Yang Tropical fruit Meat Dairy products Acrid spices Seaweed Shrimp Orange juice Coffee Peppermint tea Fennel tea Wheat Oats Soy sauce Tabasco Wheat beer Anise schnapps Steamed foods Grilled foods 6 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

(sheng qi) is the primary source of all living processes in the cosmos. The concept and meaning of qi is only partially translatable into Western languages. Hindus and Yogis use the term “prana” to reflect similar ideas about all-permeating life energy. The ancient Greek term “pneuma” describes a similar concept. Coursing vital qi, as an energetic unit, is an essential element in the various treatment modalities of TCM, such as acupuncture, moxibustion, dietetics, medicinal herb therapy, and qi gong. The Symbol for Qi Imbalances of qi can take the form of vacuity or repletion. The term “vacuity” comes from the Chi- nese “xu” (vacuous, empty, lacking, weak). Its The Chinese symbol for qi is formed by two ele- opposite is “repletion, ” which comes from the Chi- ments. One element means “air,” “breath,” nese “shi. ” Vacuity and repletion can be present in “steam”; the other element means “rice,” “grains.” varying degrees, from slight to complete (see This character illustrates how something can be “Glossary,” p. 251, for more details). both immaterial and material, in accordance with Acupuncturists will use needles to modulate the Taoist principle of yin and yang. strength and speed of qi flowing in the channels The energy field between the poles of yin and yang and to disperse stagnation. Qi vacuity can be bal- gives rise to the universal primal force qi. Accord- anced with foods rich in qi, or by strengthening a ing to ancient Chinese belief, vital—or life force—qi weakened body with Chinese medicinal herbs. 7 Therapeutic Principles of TCM

Four basic aspects of interaction between yin and Yin And Yang are Divisible yang enable practitioners to gain insight into the main processes for development and treatment of but Inseparable (Yin Yang Ke diseases. This fundamental understanding of TCM Fen Er Bu Ke Li) is a requirement for sound diagnoses and effective therapy.

The Four Basic Interactions of Yin and Yang Yin And Yang are Rooted in 1 Yin and yang are opposites Each Other (Yin Yang Hu Gen)

2 Yin and yang are divisible but inseparable The mutual dependency of yin and yang is essen- (yin yang ke fen er bu ke li) tial to understanding yin and yang. Yang cannot 3. Yin and yang are rooted in each other exist without yin and vice versa. (yin yang hu gen) The Nei Jjing states: 4 Yin and yang counterbalance each other (yin yang zhi yue) “Yin is the root of yang, and yang is the root of yin; no yin can be without yang, and no yang can be without 5 Yin and yang mutually transform each other yin.”

All therapy principles in TCM intend to either Yin and yang are always interconnected, depend retain or reestablish the balance of yin and yang. on each other, and conduct an ongoing exchange Complete balance of yin and yang means perfect with each other. Neither of the polarities is ever health; imbalance or disharmony between the two static. Harmonious unity requires balancing both poles signifies illness. poles in relationship to each other. They exist in a dynamic, interwoven interplay, similar to the interchange of night and day. For example, activity–rest, above–below, energy–matter, man– Yin And Yang are Opposites woman.

Yin and yang describe the fundamental properties of two opposites inherent in every object or phenomena in the universe. Yin And Yang Counter- These two opposites do not appear, however, to exist in an absolute or static state, for example, balance Each Other light–dark, slow–fast, heaven–earth. (Yin Yang Zhi Yue)

As is their nature, yin and yang strive to retain a lasting dynamic balance. An imbalance in one of the two opposite poles invariably influences the other pole, which changes the relationship of the poles to each other. With yang surplus, yin gets reduced or consumed. For example, high fever (yang repletion) results in a weakening of the body (reduced yin) through intense sweating. There are four basic forms of imbalance, which according to TCM explain essential physiological and pathophysiological processes. 8 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

Yin repletion with relative yang vacuity quantitative changes and turns them into qualita- g repletion condition tive transformations. The Nei Jing states: Yang repletion with relative yin vacuity g repletion condition “There has to be rest following extensive movement; Yin vacuity with relative yang repletion extreme yang turns into yin.” g vacuity condition Yang vacuity with relative yin repletion One example is children at a party: The later it g vacuity condition gets, the more excited and noisy they get—their yang condition is kept artificially high to suppress their desire for yin (sleep)—until it comes to a sudden breakdown, namely yang has turned into yin. Other examples are life–death, high fever–sudden Yin And Yang Mutually drop in temperature (shock, blood centralization, cold extremities). Transform Each Other The four basic TCM therapy strategies reflect these fundamental interactions between yin and yang: Because yin and yang create each other, they are always supporting, repairing, and transforming into each other. For example, inhalation is fol- Supplementing yang lowed by exhalation, and activity is followed by Supplementing yin rest. Draining yang repletion Even in their seemingly most stable form, yin and Draining yin repletion yang are undergoing constant change. This process starts at a specific stage of development. It takes 9 The Five Phases (Wu Xing)

The theory of the five phases came into being in resulting disharmony can be viewed in terms of the 4th century BC. With its help, Tsu Yen (350–270 “rebellion” or “overwhelming.” BC) and his students tried to demystify nature and The engendering and restraining cycles reflect har- create an intellectual, rational, self-contained the- monious courses of events, whereas the over- oretical system. whelming cycle (xiang cheng) and the rebellion A Western analogy to this model is the theories cycle (xiang wu) represent disharmonious events. shaping Greek antiquity marked by Aristotle. The overwhelming cycle is an abnormal exaggera- The Taoist model of the five phases (or elements) is tion of the restraining cycle, where one of the an extension of the concept of yin and yang devel- phases is weakened, causing the phase that under oped earlier. It relates the entire spiritual, emo- normal circumstances would restrain it to invade tional, material, and energetic phenomena of the and weaken it further. The rebellion cycle is a universe to five basic phases (earth, metal, water, reversal of the restraining relationship, where one wood, and fire). of the five phases is disproportionately strong and These five phases (or elements) represent natural rebels against the phase that should normally phenomena that were applied to human beings by restrain it (Wiseman). the Confucian school: For the TCM practitioner, the five phases, in association with their controlling cycles, provide an interesting tool for explaining tendencies and rela- The Five Phases tionships of clinical processes and for finding the Earth Fertility, ripening, harvest, right treatment. inner core (center), stability The concept of five phases plays an important role (being grounded), sweet flavor in classifying foods and Chinese medicinal herbs. Metal Reflection, change, death, acrid flavor Water Flow, clarity, cold, birth, (Yang) salty flavor 3 Fire

Wood Growth, bending, childhood, (Yin) 1 expansion, sour flavor Sheng Fire Heat, flare-up, upbearing, 2

bitter flavor Wood Earth

Ke These phases do not exist in isolation from each other, but influence each other in a constant, dynamic interaction. With the engendering (or feeding) cycle (xiang sheng, “mother–child–rule”) the phases can nur- Water Metal ture each other, for example, water “feeds” wood and makes it grow. Wood nourishes fire and turns into ashes (earth). The restraining cycle (xiang ke) keeps the phases The Five Phases in check when one of them grows too powerful. 1 = Engendering (sheng) cycle For example, fire controls metal, meaning it melts 2 = Restraining (ke) cycle it. When the restraining cycle breaks down, the 3 = Rebellion (wu) cycle 10 The Five Basic Substances

In TCM, the term “substance” is relative, as it does In TCM, the vital life force qi, source of all life pro- not contain any determination about matter or cesses in the universe, arises from the energy field energy. This concept builds on an understanding of between the polarities of yin and yang. yin and yang based on qi, which can manifest in different ways, from a total absence of substance The Four Basic Forms of Qi for example as spirit/consciousness (shen), to Original qi (yuan qi) material forms, for example as body fluids (blood Gu qi (Wiseman: drum qi; synonym: food qi, or other body fluids). grain qi) Ancestral qi (zong qi) The Five Basic Substances True qi (zhen qi) Life force—qi Congenital essence—jing Blood—xue Function Spirit—shen Body fluids—jin ye Qi has a variety of functions. Qi is the source of all movement in the cosmos. In a medical sense, qi is For the TCM practitioner, knowledge about and the basic substance of all functions and processes formation of the five basic substances is very in the human body and the moving force for all life important. They are the key parameters addressed processes. Qi warms and protects the body (wei by TCM therapy. qi = defense) and is responsible for growth and Nutritional and herbal therapies are especially development, and for mental and physical activi- valuable for influencing the formation, regulation, ties. Qi (zhen qi) flows through the channels of the and consumption of these basic substances. body. Each organ has its own qi, which controls the Attempting to compensate for a deficiency of organ’s function. these substances with acupuncture alone would be a time-consuming process and an ineffective, unsuccessful therapy concept. Dysfunction Effective therapy, for example in case of blood vacuity (symptom: insomnia), should supplement Qi Vacuity (Qi Xu) acupuncture treatment with dietary measures and, if needed, herbal therapy, to promote fast Symptoms recovery of the patient (e.g., blood-building foods, General physical weakness, pale complexion, such as chicken or beef). chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, mild sweating, Continuous supplementation and regeneration of lowered resistance, shortness of breath, quiet qi, blood, and body fluids is one of the most impor- voice. tant tasks of Chinese dietetics. Tongue: Swollen, pale Pulse: Weak

w Nutritional Therapy Life Force—Qi Strengthen qi with oats, nuts, seeds, warming types of meat and fish (beef, lamb, salmon, trout). As stated earlier, the term qi is usually translated as “energy” or “life force,” but the meaning of the term in Chinese is much broader and encompasses aspects that are difficult to translate into Western languages. The Five Basic Substances 11

Qi Stagnation (Qi Zhi) The Two Sources of Jing:

Obstruction of qi coursing in the bowels and vis- Congenital (constitution) jing (prenatal, inher- cera (zang fu), channels, or the entire body. ited jing) (xian tian zhi jing): Congenital jing is created at conception from Symptoms parental jing (inherited energy, innate Feeling of pressure, tightness, or oppression; energy). It is irrevocably fixed and cannot be strong, dull, pressing pain; pain in the area of the replaced or regenerated. This jing corre- qi coursing disorder (e.g., qi blockage in channels), sponds to inherited constitution in the West- often pain increase with pressure, sometimes with ern view. varying intensity and localization of pain. For Acquired constitution jing (hou tian zhi jing): example, liver qi stagnation, tension headaches, This jing is created by the stomach and spleen rib-side pain. after birth from extracted and clear elements Tongue: Bluish coloring, prominent lingual of ingested foods and beverages. Acquired veins jing supplements congenital jing. Pulse: Tight w Nutritional Therapy Disperse stagnation with acrid flavors: pepper, Function chili, high-proof alcohol, Chinese leeks (garlic chives), green onions, fennel, garlic, vinegar, cori- Practitioners of TCM view the amount of jing as ander, chili. determining one’s quality of life and life expec- tancy. Since jing, as already discussed, cannot be regenerated, it forms a sort of “inner energy clock” Qi Counterflow (Qi Ni) which determines our individual life span. Once Qi counterflow (a.k.a rebellious or reverse qi)isa this “inner energy clock” runs out, the person dies. pathological change of direction of normal qi flow. Understandably, TCM puts great emphasis on the preservation and the careful treatment of jing. Symptoms Chinese nutritional therapy, as well as many other Nausea and vomiting, hiccoughs, cough, asthma. areas of Asian philosophies, address this important aspect, for example in qi gong or tantra. w Nutritional Therapy The quality of jing is the foundation for prenatal Downbear qi with almonds, salt, celery, green tea. development of the body. Postpartum, jing influences physical and mental growth and is responsible for the body’s reproductive strength. Congenital Essence—Jing Dysfunction The Chinese character for essence means “seed,” The classic Su Wen states: Poor constitution, premature aging, deformities, sexual disorders such as sterility and infertility. “Jing is the origin of the body.” w Nutritional Therapy According to TCM, this extremely valuable sub- Protecting jing with a regular diet of healthy and stance forms the foundation for all physical and highly nutritious foods and a balanced lifestyle. mental development. Jing is stored in the kidneys; Supplementing jing through dietary measures is it has no equivalent in Western medicine. not possible. 12 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

Blood—Xue Dysfunction

Blood Vacuity (Xue Xu) Traditionally, blood is viewed as a dense and material form of qi. It develops from the essence of food Symptoms fluids that are extracted by stomach and spleen. Dull, pale complexion; pale lips, anemia, fatigue, The kidneys also contribute to the formation of disturbed vision, memory problems, restlessness, blood. New gu qi obtained from food is trans- insomnia, mental instability. formed via the lung and subsequently connected Tongue: Pale, thin with ancestral qi (zong qi). It is then distributed to Pulse: Fine, rough the entire body by the viscera (zang organ) heart. Blood and qi are closely connected. w Nutritional Therapy The Su Wen states: Strengthen blood with bass, eel, octopus (squid, cuttlefish), chicken, beef, liver, chicken egg. “Qi rides on the blood” and further, “Blood is the mother of qi.” Blood Stasis (Xue Yu) Another passage reads: Symptoms Bright, sharp, firmly localized pain, swelling, pos- “When blood and qi develop disharmony, a hundred sibly discoloration of influenced region, purple illnesses can form.” lips. Tongue: Dark red, bluish red Pulse: Tight Function w Nutritional Therapy The most important purpose of blood is to nourish Disperse blood stasis with Chinese leek, venison and moisten the body, especially the eyes, skin, (deer), vinegar, alcohol. hair, muscles, and sinews. Chinese medicine makes an important connection Blood Heat (Xue Re) between the material aspect of blood and immaterial consciousness: “Blood forms the bed for shen Symptoms (spirit).” Heat sensation, restlessness, dry mouth, skin dis- Blood, with its yin aspect as material basis, is orders with red efflorescence, skin itching, bright responsible for anchoring the yang aspect (spirit or red bleeding, hypermenorrhea. shen) within. Blood contains mostly yin, but also Tongue: Red, raised dots some yang. The spirit is about 98 % yang, but in Pulse: Rapid Chinese thinking, needs “a little yin at night to be able to rest”—this is provided by blood (xue). If w Nutritional Therapy there is not enough blood, the spirit cannot rest Clear blood heat with mung beans, tomatoes, and the result is sleeplessness. wheat, celery stalks, dandelion, spinach. Blood vacuity therefore often displays not only as physical weakness, but also as mental symptoms such as restlessness, forgetfulness, and insomnia. The Five Basic Substances 13

Spirit—Shen Body Fluids—Jin Ye

In TCM, spirit (shen) encompasses the mental, psy- Jin ye incorporates all body fluids. They are chological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a extracted by the spleen/pancreas from food and person and is expressed in the person’s conscious- beverages. Body fluids include tears, synovial ness and personality. Spirit is closely connected (joint) fluids, sweat, digestive juices, urine, etc. with heart, jing, blood, and qi. These material connections exemplify the unity that mind and body form in TCM. Good spirit shows in the face: it pro- Function vides a radiant expression and eyes that are alert and clear. TCM distinguishes between two types of body fluid by meaning and function: Function Liquid (Jin)

Spirit hosts: Consciousness, thought, memory, Clear, light, thin element; more yang; circulates sleep, emotions, spirituality, and psyche. mostly on body surface; keeps skin, hair, ears, Each viscera (zang organ) is accompanied by a psy- eyes, mouth, nose, genitals, and other orifices and chological–mental aspect: muscles moist. Spirit soul (shen): Heart, consciousness, thought Ethereal soul (hun): Liver, vigor, creativity Humors (Ye) Corporeal soul (po, body–soul): Lung, instinct, intuition Turbid, heavy, denser element; more yin; moistens Mind (zhi): Kidney, willpower, character and nourishes brain, bone marrow, and lubricates Thought (si): Spleen/pancreas, analytical think- joints. Sweat, snivel, tears, drool, and spittle. ing, memory Both elements are also partly responsible for blood quality and quantity. Dysfunction Dysfunction Psychological and mental disorders, insomnia. Damage to Body Fluids w Nutritional Therapy Soothe the spirit, for example with wheat (stabi- Body fluids are yin and deficiencies always appear lizes spirit); when agitated, avoid acrid flavor. as dryness (advanced stage = exsiccosis).

Symptoms Dry skin, lips, nose, tongue, mucous membranes, or mouth; dry cough; constipation.

w Nutritional Therapy Moisten dryness with pear, apple, tangerine, soy milk, tofu, milk, wheat, tomato, coconut milk, grapes, peanuts, and pine nuts. 14 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

Body Fluid Accumulation Organ Symptom

Dampness caused by a deficiency of spleen qi, lung Lung Edemas in upper part of body, qi, or kidney qi, or of all three organs. face, hands w Nutritional Therapy Spleen Edemas in center part of body, Primarily supplement spleen network with millet, abdomen, ascites rice, fennel, potatoes, and honey. Kidney Edemas in lower part of body, legs, ankles

w Nutritional Therapy Disperse dampness with amaranth, barley, corn silk tea, ginger, dandelion, and soy milk. 15 Causes of Diseases

TCM views health as a dynamic balance between Wind yin and yang. Disease develops when this balance is disturbed. TCM generally distinguishes between Disorders caused by wind (draft) have yang energy “external” and “internal” pathogenic factors that and appear suddenly, often serving as a kind of can cause disharmony of yin and yang. “carrier” to transport cold or heat to the outer Other causes of diseases are: layer of the body. This injures the outer layers, Constitution: Quality of inherited congenital especially the yang channels of the upper half of constitution (jing), constitution of mother dur- the body. ing pregnancy, birth events and miscarriages. Diet: Malnutrition or excess, inferior-quality Symptoms diet, imbalanced diet, poor eating habits. Sneezing, shivering, colds, running nose, fever, Unbalanced lifestyle: Overwork, stress, physi- joint pain, headache, aversion to wind and cold, cal, mental, or emotional strain, lack of exercise, sudden change of symptoms. sexual problems. Trauma w Nutritional Therapy Parasites Expulsion of wind or wind–cold. Treatment errors For wind–cold: Acrid spices, especially ginger, green onions, garlic, coriander. For wind–heat: Celery stalk, eggplant, water External Bioclimatic Factors chestnut, green tea, watermelon. or Impediments Cold Depending on the source used, the impediments (synonym: bi lun, or adverse climates) include: Cold, another important pathogenic factor with yin quality, is divided into external and internal Wind impediment cold. Cold impediment External cold, caused by external exposure to cold Damp impediment (winter, air conditioning), results in qi and blood Heat impediment stagnation, and manifests itself, for example, in Dryness fixed, cold-dependent pain. Internal cold, caused by the excessive consump- These impediments often coincide and attack the tion of cold foods or a deep penetration of external body by entering the channels and causing “exter- cold, results in qi and blood stagnation and a nal illnesses.” For example, wind–cold can cause weakening of the zang organs. the flu. In many climates of the Northern hemisphere, Symptoms wind–cold and damp are among the most com- Freezing, cold extremities, and, in case of deeply mon external pathogenic factors. When applied penetrating cold, joint pain, arthritis, gastrointes- early, nutritional therapy provides excellent tinal disorders, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal opportunities for compensating attacks by exter- pain that improves with warmth. nal bioclimatic factors. w Nutritional Therapy Dispersion of cold with acrid spices such as ginger, green onions, garlic, coriander, chili, black pepper, fennel, chicken, lamb, alcohol. 16 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics

Dampness lemon, banana, kiwi fruit, crayfish, rabbit, salt, green tea, and yogurt. Dampness is an external pathogenic factor that stems from damp weather conditions, wet surroundings, or wet clothing. Internally, dampness Dryness (Zao) forms as a result of spleen/pancreas network dysfunction. When it becomes chronic, it presents as Dryness is a yang factor and often appears in com- mucous membrane symptoms. bination with heat. Heat, however, plays a more Damp diseases have a pronounced yin character, significant role. Dryness damages the lung and with qualities such as heaviness, stickiness, swell- harms yin and body fluids. ing, slowing of normal qi flow, and a tendency toward long-term illness. Symptoms Dry, scaly skin; chapped lips, dry cough, little sali- Symptoms va, thirst, constipation and exsiccosis. Chronic fatigue, feeling of heaviness in head and limbs, dizziness, edemas, dyspnea (shortness of w Nutritional Therapy breath), tightness in chest, and abdominal symp- Moisten and replenish body fluids with pear, toms such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, banana, watermelon, tangerine, soy milk, tofu, diarrhea. wheat, peanut, honey, cow’s milk, butter, and Damp weather is often associated with a worsen- yogurt. ing of symptoms. w Nutritional Therapy Dispelling and drying up dampness. Internal Factors, Dampness/heat: Mung beans, soy milk, dandelion, corn silk tea, seaweed. “The Five Minds (Emotions)” Dampness: Barley, millet, ginger, carp, green tea. (Wu Shi)

The five minds are joy, anger, anxiety, thought, Heat and fear. Excess or lack of emotions damages health by producing specific reactions in the bow- Heat is a pathogenic factor with yang character. els and viscera (zang fu) of the body. Protracted Because heat has a tendency to rise, it primarily emotional imbalance can lead to serious and deep interferes with the upper parts of the body. Heat organ dysfunctions. Dietary measures can help by dries out and harms yin. It also harms blood and cooling or warming the corresponding networks body fluids and impacts the spirit (shen). of emotions (e.g., sadness/thought—lung network). Symptoms Restlessness, irritability, nervousness, sleep disor- Sadness (sad thoughts) and anxiety harms the ders, insomnia, hyperactivity, delirium, itching, lungs red rashes, fever, thirst, dry mouth and lips, red- Fear harms the kidneys dened, sore throat. Anger and rage harm the liver Excessive joy or stress harm the heart w Nutritional Therapy Worry, brooding, and excessive thought (men- Clear heat and cool, moisten; replenish body fluids tal activity) harm the spleen with tomatoes, dandelion, cucumbers, watermelon, wheat, tofu, mung beans, sprouts, orange, 17 Traditional Chinese Nutrition Theory

The beginnings of Chinese dietetics can be traced “Dietary therapy should be the first step when one back to the Zhou Dynasty (1100–700 BC). At the treats a disease. Only when this is unsuccessful should time, four groups of healers were responsible for one try medicines.” providing medical care: Therapists for nutritional matters (dieticians): In a further quote, he emphasizes the preventive shi yi character of Chinese dietetics: Therapists for internal diseases (internists): ji yi Therapists for external illnesses and injuries “Without the knowledge of proper diet, it is hardly pos- (surgeons): yang yi sible to enjoy good health.” Therapists for sick animals (veterinarians): shou yi Nutritional therapy offers the following options:

Dieticians were the most significant of these heal- “Life care”—Tao ers. Their task was primarily the prevention of dis- Prevention of disease ease in their patients, along with therapeutic use Therapy for acute disease of diet for acute and chronic diseases. Therapy for chronic disease The root of the term “diet” reveals an interesting connection between the original Western perception of the term and the Asian concept. Diet is derived from the Greek term “diaita,” meaning life care, lifestyle, or way of life. Lifestyle The Qi Energy Concept highlights an aspect that resembles “Tao,” the con- of TCM nection of humans and nature. With its emphasis on prevention, dietary therapy Qi, the life force, or life energy, is of primary in TCM enabled dieticians to be solely responsible importance in TCM. for the health care of entire families of dignitaries. Sufficient and freely coursing qi signifies vitality, Health was achieved through diet. health, and the body’s capacities. Qi vacuity lowers Prevention, the avoidance of diseases, plays an overall quality of life and encourages development important role in all TCM therapies. The value of disease. placed on prevention is illustrated by an ancient The body gathers its daily energy from three Chinese system of wages for physicians (this may sources. be an anecdote!). The amount of a physician’s annual salary was The Three Energy Sources determined by the immaculate state of health dis- Congenital constitution essence (jing) played by their patients. The less their patients fell Gu qi (drum qi) from food sick, the higher their salary. Ancestral (air) qi (zong qi) Acupuncture, moxibustion, phytotherapy, dietetics, and exercise (qi gong, tai chi) are the foundations of therapy in TCM. Even in its origins, dietetics was assigned a vital role in the treatment of disease. To quote from the Congenital Constitution Essence Su Wen: (Jing) “When the body is too weak, the therapist should use The inherited essence of the parents, stored in the foods to replenish the deficit.” kidneys, provides the basis for all life processes The famous physician Sun Si Miao of the Tang and maturation processes in the body. Quantity Dynasty (AD 618—907) further emphasized the and quality of jing are determined at birth. Since important role of dietary therapy: this energy reserve can not be replenished, Chi- 18 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Dietetics nese physicians recommend careful management Ancestral (Air) Qi (Zong Qi) of this potential. As little jing as possible should be used to meet one’s daily energy requirement. With each breath, ancestral qi contributes to the Note: Dissipated, excessive lifestyles, an overactive total energy of the body, making up about one sex life, hard drugs, extreme stress or strain, and third of the total renewable energy. Proper breath- fasting diminish and weaken jing. ing and good, clean air enhance its energetic quality. Ancient Chinese techniques can contribute to an increase in ancestral qi through specific breath- Gu Qi (Drum Qi, or Food Qi) ing exercises, such as qi gong or tai chi, or exercises from the Asian martial arts. Gu qi develops during the first transformation stage as stomach and spleen process ingested The three energy sources congenital essence (jing), gu qi foods. The quality of newly formed gu qi depends (drum qi), and ancestral qi (zong qi) merge into true qi on the purity of foods ingested (if possible, fresh (zhen qi), which flows through the body in channels as and not processed or denatured) and on the condi- construction qi (ying qi) and defense qi (wei qi). tion of the digestive organs stomach and spleen. If these organs are in a chronic or acute state of These basic concepts highlight the need for TCM fatigue, quantity and quality of gu qi are reduced. therapy to encompass several complementary This gradually leads to general debility with a ten- therapeutic principles. dency to chronic vacuity symptoms. Acupuncture especially influences true qi (zhen qi). Since gu qi is a renewable energy source, it plays a However, acupuncture, with the exception of key role in Chinese medicine. Gu qi makes up the moxibustion, does not supplement qi in a patient: biggest share of the renewable energies. This role instead it moves qi, balances it, and disperses stag- was emphasized by the traditional “School of the nation. Middle,” which viewed nutritional therapy as a key element in the treatment of diseases. Tip: Before employing acupuncture treatment for qi, yang, or yin vacuity, please note that qi “Without knowledge about proper diet, it is hardly pos- vacuity or yang vacuity require expanded treat- sible to enjoy good health.” ment modalities involving dietary measures and Chinese herbs to supplement qi, yang, body fluids, and blood. Successful treatment of yin vacuity requires replenishing the physical body and its substance with dietary and herbal therapy. These build the foundation for effective acupuncture treatment. Traditional Chinese Nutrition Theory 19

The Concept of Qi Production

Prenatal essence (jing) Channel qi (ying qi) about 5 %

Food essence (gu qi)Trueqi (zeng qi) about 70 %

Air essence (zong qi) Defense qi (wei qi) about 25 %

Possible Therapeutic Approaches

Prenatal essence (jing) Channel qi (ying qi) about 1–5 % (acupuncture and moxibustion) (virtually nonrenewable, hence protect: lifestyle, diet) True qi (zheng qi) Food essence (gu qi) (diet, phytotherapy, qi gong) about 70 % (primarily diet, accompanied by phytotherapy and acupuncture)

Air essence (zong qi) Defense qi (wei qi) about 25 % (acupuncture and moxibustion) (qi gong, tai chi) 20 Function of the Triple Burner (San Jiao)

In TCM, the triple burner (san jiao) is likened to the The Center Burner: “official responsible for irrigation and control of Spleen, pancreas, stomach, waterways” in a feudal state. between diaphragm and navel The Nei Jing describes the triple burner’s main task as the creation, transformation, and movement of In classic texts, the center burner is often com- body fluids (jin ye), with an emphasis on digestion pared to a boiling kettle, or a fermentation barrel and excretion. that absorbs food as “foam” and processes it. The triple burner coordinates distribution and Stomach and spleen are responsible for proper movement of the different types of qi to ensure transformation and transport of food. This process continuous support of organ networks and enable separates “clear” (qing) from “turbid” (zhuo). The unobstructed movement of qi. Disorders appear as spleen moves clear qi into the upper burner. Tur- accumulation of fluids, such as edemas and uri- bid qi is sent downward through the stomach. nary retention. Once food has been transformed, the flow of In Western perception, the triple burner reflects essential qi (jing qi) derived from clear food is the anatomical division of the body into three directed upward, toward lung and heart. parts, described in historic texts such as the Nan This system provides the body with the main share Jing (The Classic of Difficult Issues) and the Ling of renewable qi as well as with blood (xue) and Shu (second part of the Huang Di Nei Jing: The Yel- body fluids (jin ye), which are moved along from low Emperor’s Classic of Medicine). there. The center burner is central to Chinese nutrition: An appropriate and sufficient diet The Upper Burner: strengthens spleen qi daily and protects the energy Heart, lungs, pericardium, resources of the kidney network. upward from diaphragm The quality of food provided to the center burner determines the body’s entire energy store, as well The lungs unite ancestral qi (zong qi) with gu qi as quality and quantity of blood and body fluids. (drum qi) to form true qi (zhen qi), which flows in the channels, and distribute true qi through the The Lower Burner: body. Lungs and heart use qi to “breathe life” into Liver, kidney, bladder, and intestine, the blood (xue) of the upper burner. downward from navel The lungs disperse fluids as a “fine mist” that moistens skin and muscles. The upper burner con- The lower burner is usually described as a trols upward movement and defense qi. “swamp” or “sewer.” Its main function is the transformation and excretion of fluids and waste products. The flow of qi is directed downward. 21

Methodology B of Nutritional Therapy

Energetics of Food

Western nutrition theory focuses on the analytical In the classic “Recipes Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold” and quantitative categorization of foods. This cate- (quian jin fang), the famous Chinese physician Sun Si gorization is based on material food components Miao states: “For the body to retain its balance and har- such as carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins, min- mony requires only following a proper diet. One should erals, and trace elements. never take medications in an uncontrolled manner. The The Eastern view, on the other hand, follows the power of medications is one-sided, and there are cases qualitative, holistic concept of yin and yang and in which they are helpful.” illustrates how thermal nature and flavor of foods and medicinal herbs influence the body. Energetic classification assigns foods primarily to Hippocrates and Hildegard von Bingen employed four areas: thermal nature, flavor, organ network, similar qualitative, more energetically oriented and direction of movement. These are modeled approaches. They used diet as an important and after paradigms rooted in the empirical founda- inexpensive source of therapy for sustaining tions of TCM. health and treating disease. TCM makes a close connection between foods and Tip: Thermal nature and flavor are of principal medicinal herbs for therapy, since their classifica- value in Chinese nutritional therapy. Flavor and tion follows the same criteria. Foods and herbs can thermal nature are often combined to describe a both promote and impede each other in their flavor and its effect on the body, e.g., sweet–hot effect on the body. For example, it would be point- or sour–cool. less to prescribe phlegm-reducing herbs and acupuncture to patients without informing them General preventive nutrition can focus on only the about phlegm-producing foods such as fatty foods, thermal nature or flavor of foods. Nutritional therapy “junk food,” excess dairy products, alcohol, etc. designed to heal illness, however, needs to be based on a Effective “holistic” therapy in such cases needs to firm diagnosis by a TCM practitioner and consider all include dietary measures, for example phlegm- four criteria (thermal nature, flavor, organ network, and reducing foods such as pears. direction).

Four basic criteria for energetic classification of foods

Thermal nature: Hot, warm, neutral, cool, cold Flavor: Sweet, acrid, sour, bitter, salty Organ network: Spleen, stomach, lung, large intestine, kidney, bladder, liver, gallbladder, heart, small intestine Direction of movement: Upbearing, floating, downbearing, falling 22 Energetic Thermal Nature

Foods are divided into five energetic temperature levels:

Hot, warm = yang Cold, cool = yin Neutral

Foods and their Thermal Nature Food category Hot Warm Neutral Cold Cool Beverages Alcohol Cocoa Water Black tea (high Coffee Fruit juices –proof) Red wine Peppermint Yogi tea tea Sour milk Soy milk Wheat beer Condiments and Honey Salt sweeteners Soy sauce Dairy products Butter Cow’s milk Yogurt Goat’s cheese cheese Eggs, fish, fowl, Lamb Beef Carp Shrimp Rabbit meat, etc. Chicken Duck Crayfish Eel Chicken egg Salmon Goose Pork Fruit and Cherry Carrot Asparagus Celery vegetables Fennel Cauliflower Banana Cucumber Leek Grape Orange Soy bean Peach Fig Rhubarb Sprouts Onion Plum Seaweed Spinach Potato Tomato Zucchini Watermelon Grains and Corn Barley legumes Lentil Tofu Millet Wheat Peas Rice Spelt Herbs and spices Cinnamon Anise Dandelion Tarragon Chili Basil Yellow Curry Rosemary gentian Garlic Ginger Paprika Pepper Seeds and nuts Walnut Hazelnut Energetic Thermal Nature 23

This same classification is applied to Chinese medicinal herbs and is rooted in a 3000-year tradi- Example tion of Chinese medicine based on application, “Treatment of cold symptoms”: observation, experience, and intuition. Ø Fennel, chicken, beef, oats Independent of its preparation, every food has a “natural” energetic, basic thermal nature that has a Excess creates yang repletion. specific effect on the body. !

Example Energetically “hot” foods such as pepper, chili, and Neutral garlic have a heating, warming effect on the body. “Cold” foods such as tomatoes and bananas cool Neutral foods build up qi and body fluids, and sta- the body. Warm and cool foods have a milder bilize and harmonize the body. effect on the body. Neutral foods do not change the energetic level of the body. Example Thermal quality initially has a general effect on the “Treatment of qi vacuity”: body: it cools or warms it. Flavor and association Ø Honey, rice, potatoes with one of the five phases determine the food’s effect on a particular organ or network.

Example Cool The sweet flavor is associated with the earth phase and primarily influences the corresponding organs Cool foods supplement body fluids (jin ye) and stomach and spleen. It has a warming or cooling blood (xue), slow down qi, and clear heat. effect on stomach/spleen, depending on thermal nature: Fennel tea warms the stomach, while Example bananas have a cooling effect. “Treatment of heat symptoms”: Ø Yogurt, soy milk, wheat

Hot Cold Hot foods increase yang, speed up qi, activate, warm, disperse, move upward and outward, warm Cold foods create cold, cool internal heat, and have the bowels and viscera (zang fu), eliminate exter- a calming effect on the spirit (shen). nal and internal cold, and mobilize defense energy. Example Example “Treatment of heat symptoms”: “Treatment of cold symptoms”: Ø Watermelon, dandelion, orange Ø Ginger, cinnamon, lamb, chili Excess damages qi and yang, and thoroughly Excess creates heat (yang repletion), injures !cools down the body. !yin, and dries out body fluids. Therapeutic goals are derived from the yin–yang principle. The Nei Jing states:

Warm “If something is cold, heat it. If something is hot, cool it.” Supplementing the opposite polarity restores origi- Warm foods strengthen yang and qi, warm the nal balance. body, bowels and viscera (zang fu), and warm and strengthen the center burner. 24 Methodology of Nutritional Therapy

Cold requires warmth “Yin Foods” = yang (hot and warm) Heat requires cold = yin (cold and cool) Yin foods are cool or cold foods; they have a cooling, soothing effect on the body.

Dairy products “Yang Foods” Fruit (especially tropical fruit like banana, citrus fruit) Mineral water “Yang foods” are hot or warm foods; they warm Tomato and invigorate the body. Wheat

Acrid spices (pepper, garlic, cinnamon) Yin foods are important therapy for heat disorders, Meat (beef, chicken, game/venison, lamb) for example: Coffee Alcohol Oats Yin Vacuity Cherry, peach Symptoms Yang foods are recommended for disorders of a Dry mucous membranes, dry tongue, night sweat, cool or cold nature, for example: hot hands and feet, feeling hot in the afternoon.

Qi Vacuity Yang Repletion

Symptoms Symptoms Fatigue, pale complexion, shivering, loss of appe- Loud voice, red face, restlessness, hectic, hyperac- tite, susceptibility to infection. tive, sleep disorders, feeling hot.

Example Yang Vacuity w Practical Application Symptoms Cold dominates, chronic cold hands and feet, Patient is lethargic, pale, tired, shivering. exhaustion, lethargy, sloppy stool, frequent urge to urinate with pale urine. Diagnosis: Yang vacuity Therapy: Replenish yang with yang foods (energetically hot or warm foods like lamb, beef, pepper, fennel tea).

Patient is agitated, irritable, with red complexion and sudden headaches.

Diagnosis: Yang repletion. Therapy: Drain yang repletion, clear heat with yin foods (energetically cool or cold foods like fruits, salad, peppermint tea, tomato). 25 The Five Flavors (Wu Wei)

Sweet—acrid—salty—sour—bitter

Organization of Flavors into Yin, Yang, and Organ Network Yang quality Phase Network Sweet Earth Spleen /stomach Acrid Metal Lung/large intestine Yin quality Phase Network Bitter Fire Heart /small intestine Salty Water Kidney/bladder Sour Wood Liver /gallbladder

Food Classification According to Flavor Sweet Acrid Salty Sour Bitter Almond Celeriac (celery Crayfish Adzuki beans Basil Apple root) Duck Apple Chicory Anise Chili Ham Apricot Celeriac (celery Barley Cinnamon Oyster Grape root) Banana Fennel Octopus Kiwi Coffee Beef Garlic Pork Lemon Dandelion Butter Ginger Pigeon Mango Lettuce Carrot Kohlrabi Salt Orange Parsley Cheese Onion Soy sauce Plum Tea Chicken Paprika Pineapple Tobacco Corn Pepper Cheese Duck Radishes Curd cheese Eggplant Fennel Thyme Farmer’s cheese Fig Watercress Cream cheese Milk Sour (curdled) Millet milk Oats Tomato Pork Potato Pumpkin Pear Rabbit Rice Spinach Wheat

The five flavors are the oldest system of food clas- Yang quality: Sweet, acrid sification in TCM and are mentioned in the Nei Jing. Yin quality: Salty, sour, bitter Flavors can be divided according to their yin or yang quality. In addition to their specific yin/yang effect, the five flavors each belong to one of the five phases. Thus 26 Methodology of Nutritional Therapy each flavor is closely associated with the organ network linked to the phase influenced by the fla- Acrid Flavor vor. Phase Phase Network Metal Sweet Spleen/stomach Network Acrid Lung/large intestine Lung/large intestine Salty Kidney/bladder Effect Sour Liver/gallbladder Moves qi, invigorates energy circulation, loosens Bitter Heart/small intestine stagnation, disperses, opens pores, frees surface of exogenous disease factors, and produces perspira- Each flavor also has other important qualities that tion. influence the body: General Application The acrid flavor strengthens the lungs and ban- ishes exogenous disease factors, especially Sweet Flavor wind–cold. Its sweat-producing effect and ability to open pores are helpful during the acute stage of Phase a cold (ginger). Moderately spicy foods during the Earth winter months offer excellent protection against colds. Due to their invigorating effect on qi, acrid Network flavors loosen emotional stagnation and associ- Spleen/stomach ated breathing problems (tightness in chest). With its tendency to move qi upward, acrid flavors are Effect beneficial when experiencing emotional strain, Warming, strengthening, harmonizing, relaxing, such as sadness, melancholy, and despondency and moistening. Sweet has the strongest supple- (emotions of the lung network). menting effect on the body (craving for “sweets” following heavy physical, emotional, or mental People with heat symptoms should assidu- exertion). !ously avoid acrid flavors! Excess causes heat symptoms and can impair the skin (dryness, aller- General Application gies, itching skin, sun allergy). Through the con- Sweet flavor strengthens primarily spleen qi, trolling cycles, acrid flavors can damage mostly where it builds up energy. It also helps with acute liver and gallbladder (ascendant liver yang,organ weakness (ravishing appetite). With its moisten- yang shang kang, for example irritability, hyperac- ing effect, sweet foods nourish body fluids, relieve tivity, sleep disorders.) Acrid flavors disperse spirit inner tension (compulsive eating, overeating due (shen), resulting in inner restlessness, hyperactiv- to emotional stress), and stabilize one’s “inner ity, and sleep disorders. Via the engendering center” (earth phase). (sheng) cycle, kidney essence may overheat, causing exaggerated sexual desire, sexual compulsions. Excess sweet flavors harm spleen qi and pro- May weaken muscle tone and cause dryness in !duce pathogenic dampness. This can, over time, large intestine (constipation). lead to phlegm disorders, for example recurrent bronchitis, sinusitis, chronic fatigue, dull sensation in head. The Nei Jing says: “Sweet flavor adds flesh,” resulting in obesity and weakness of connective tissue. Via the controlling cycles, excess sweet flavor can weaken the kidneys, resulting in bone and teeth disorders. The Five Flavors (Wu Wei) 27

Sour moves inward and is healing for distracted, Salty Flavor unfocused minds or restless lifestyles.

Phase Sour flavor is contraindicated when acute Water !external weather conditions (wind–cold) impact the body. When pathogenic effects are still Network located in the outer layers of the body, sour flavors Kidney/bladder pull these factors into deeper layers. This worsens the course of disease and reduces treatment suc- Effect cess (no heated lemon juice during acute cold!). Cools, moistens, downbears, softens, loosens The therapy of choice for colds is acrid flavors, which open pores, promote perspiration, and clear General Application pathogenic factors from the body surface. Salty flavor in moderation supplements kidney function, promotes urine and stool excretion Excess sour flavors damage muscle tone (lowering (Epsom salt), dissolves congestions and hardened pH > sore muscles, muscle contraction) and sinews areas (e.g., subcutaneous nodules, phlegm accu- and should be avoided when suffering from non- mulation). articular rheumatism and arthritis.

More salt restriction, excess is common! Dehy- !drates body; damages fluids, blood, and vascu- lar system (hypertension); hardens muscles and Bitter Flavor damages bones. Via the restraining cycle (ke), inhibits heart and spirit (shen), decreases mental Phase abilities, and leads to rigid thinking. Fire

Network Heart/small intestine Sour Flavor Effect Phase Drying, hardening, downbearing Wood General Application Network Bitter–cool, downbears and supports the body’s Liver/gallbladder digestive and excretion functions (digestive teas with amaroids/bitters, such as gallbladder tea, Effect wormwood tea). It supplements heart yin and has Astringent, gathers and preserves fluids a calming effect, especially following stress and mental strain (beer, especially light-colored wheat General Application beer). Bitter–warm flavors in the form of aperitifs, Sour–cooling foods refresh the body, reduce exces- or bitter liqueurs, stimulate the digestive organs sive perspiration, promote the creation of fluids, due to their alcohol content, especially in combi- and soothe “heated” temperaments by cooling nation with bitter flavors. emotional “heat” in the liver/gallbladder. Engendering (sheng) cycle: Bitter (fire) supple- Sour flavor also supplements yin. “Sour makes ments spleen/pancreas and stomach (earth). Its happy.” In times of emotional stress and anger, the drying property prevents the formation of damp sour flavor should be favored, because it supple- throughout the body. When taken in appropriate ments liver yin. The supplementing effect of sour dosages, bitter is a spleen qi tonic, preferably dur- flavors is moved along to the heart element (via ing moist–cool weather (coffee, red wine). the engendering sheng cycle). 28 Methodology of Nutritional Therapy

Too much bitter–cool has a strong laxative Via the engendering (sheng) cycle, surplus heat in !effect and causes diarrhea (Epsom salt). Excess the fire phase is moved into the earth phase, bitter–warm flavors (coffee!) dehydrate (dry skin), where it can cause damage to spleen/stomach. damage fluids (especially blood vacuity, poor cir- A symptom often seen in practice is “stomach culation), damage texture (Nei Jing: “Bitter spreads heat” (TCM), in Western medicine known as gast- to the bones”), heat up the heart, and inhibit spirit. ritis or ulcer, caused by excessive coffee consump- In Western medicine, coffee is considered a “cal- tion, nicotine, or stress (TCM: stress = heat). cium robber” and promotes osteoporosis. Tip: Green tea is energetically “cool,” while black tea is more neutral in thermal nature. 29 Flavor Association with Organ Networks

Along with their general effect, each of the five fla- Phase Flavor Organ vors is associated with one of the five phases. This explains the flavor’s effect on the specific bowels Earth Sweet Spleen/stomach and viscera (zang fu) of a corresponding phase. Metal Acrid Lung/large instestine The Nei Jing states: Water Salty Kidney/bladder

“Sourness enters the liver, bitterness enters the heart, Wood Sour Liver/gallbladder sweetness enters the spleen, acridity enters the lungs, Fire Bitter Heart/small instestine saltiness enters the kidneys.” It goes on to say: “Sourness enters the sinews, bitterness enters the blood, acridity enters qi, sweetness enters the flesh, saltiness enters the bones.” (Huang Di Nei Ling Shui Zu Yi: The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine)

Food Table: Organ Networks Viscera Spleen Lungs Kidney Liver Heart (zang Anise Almond Chestnut Alcohol Alcohol organs) Beef Duck Grape Celery stalks Black tea Caraway seed Garlic Lamb Eel Chili Carrots Radish Millet Liver Coffee Chicken Pepper Oats Garlic Dandelion Fig Peppermint Oyster Lemon Gentian Honey tea Plum Peppermint Wheat Millet Watercress Raspberry tea Oats Venison Rye Pork Wheat Wheat Rice Walnuts Salmon Bowels Stomach Large Bladder Gallbladder Small (fu intestine intestine organs) Beef Banana Caraway seed Belgian endive Green lettuce Caraway seed Corn Fennel Mung bean Mushroom Carrots Pepper Parsley Peach Snail Chamomile Rabbit Squid Rye Spinach tea Spinach Chicken Tofu Corn Wheat germ Fennel Fig Honey Millet Pork Rice Trout 30 Methodology of Nutritional Therapy

Note: In each network, some food flavors can influ- Upbearing Movement ence bowels and viscera (zang fu) in five thermal directions. Foods that move yang upward mainly have sweet–acrid flavors and moderate thermal nature Example (warm, neutral); recommended for use during Sweet–cold, banana: Clears stomach heat spring season. Sweet–warm, carrot: Warms stomach Sweet–hot, anise schnapps: Warms, heats stom- Example ach Green onion, garlic, alcoholic beverages

Floating Movement Example: Carrot Moves qi upward and outward (sweating), expels Flavor external pathogenic factors, dissipates cold and Sweet wind; strong (warm/hot) thermal nature, sweet and acrid flavor. Phase Earth Example Cinnamon, pepper, high-proof alcoholic beverages Thermal Nature Warm Downbearing Movement Network Stomach and spleen/stomach Moves qi downward and inward, retains qi and body fluids on the inside; cooling–neutral thermal Effect nature, primarily sour flavor, partly bitter and Warms and strengthens primarily the digestive or- salty. For example, downbearing ascending liver gans stomach and spleen/pancreas. Useful for loss yang with dizziness, headaches. of appetite, nausea, digestive stagnation, constipation, and diarrhea. Example Yogurt, lemon

Qi Movement Caused Falling Movement by Food: Food Direction Moves downward, has a laxative or diuretic effect, and a cooling, mostly cold thermal nature, with This quality describes how a food influences the strong salty or bitter flavor. movement of qi in the body. Example Crayfish, Epsom salt 31 Influencing the Thermal Nature of Foods

Chinese dietetics recognizes over 50 different refreshing ingredients such as fruit, tropical fruit, ways of preparing foods. The ways in which foods or sprouts. are heated or prepared exert the most significant influence on the qi or thermal nature of foods. Preparation methods can be divided into two categories. Warming Cooking Methods

These methods support the warming effect of foods and reduce the refreshing (cooling) effect of Cooling Cooking Methods foods. Warming cooking methods increase the yang potential of meals. These methods increase the cooling nature of foods. They can cool down warm or hot foods by Warming cooking methods include: using refreshing or cold ingredients. Cooling cook- Grilling, frying, roasting, smoking, searing, baking, ing methods increase the yin potential of meals. long simmering in liquid, cooking with alcohol, using hot or warming spices. Cooling cooking methods include: Blanching, steaming, salting (pickling in brine), boiling in plentiful water, and preparation using 32 Cooking Methods in Detail

Baking rrs Steaming rs

This cooking method gently supplies yang energy Steaming changes the thermal nature of foods very to foods. It is useful for avoiding the cooling effect little, which classifies this method as neutral. of refreshing or strongly cooling foods (yin foods, e.g., vegetables). Baking foods or making casseroles is a way for vegetarians to supply their body with yang energy and balance the cooling effect of Grilling/Broiling/Barbecue the yin foods that make up the biggest share of a rrrr vegetarian diet. Baking is beneficial for supplying the body with yang energy during the cold season. Grilling, broiling, or barbecuing develops a strong Vegetables or raw foods, which due to their yin yang effect. Direct contact with a heat source sup- character cool the body, can become warming plies foods with intense heat. This develops a through baking. For example, baked tomatoes or strong warming effect in grilled foods, especially baked apples. meat. Because grilling, broiling, or barbecuing may develop toxic substances in foods, this method should be applied only in exceptional cases. Blanching rs Grilling broiling, or barbecuing should be avoided with heat symptoms. This method of preparation does not change the energy level of a food, but foods become easier to digest when heated. Boiling/Simmering rs g rrs Frying and Roasting rrs With boiling, the warming effect is determined by Frying and roasting supply foods with yang energy. cooking time and temperature. Brief boiling adds A good variation of this method in Chinese cooking little yang energy to foods. Prolonged boiling over is the use of a wok with little or no oil added. several hours (up to 36 hours for the Master Soup) “Woking” brings foods in contact with extreme develops immense yang potential in foods. In TCM, heat for a short time only and lends them an outer this heightened energy potential is much more crunchy layer, but leaves them juicy and fresh on important than any potential loss of vitamins dur- the inside. This provides foods with strong yang ing prolonged cooking. Stews containing warming energy on the outside and a balancing yin compo- meats and simmered for long periods are an excel- nent on the inside. lent foundation for restoring yang potential in a person with qi or yin vacuity. Boiling is also valu- Frying and roasting should be avoided with internal heat able during cold winter months (meat, broths, and symptoms. Using too much oil or other frying fats can vegetable soups). This cooking method is no longer also develop moist heat, which strains the liver/gallblad- common in many parts of the world, but it is very der organ network. effective for healing in Chinese medicine. In the past, boiling or simmering for long periods was widespread in Europe, especially in Northern Europe, where, for days on end, a pot would simmer over an open fire, with new food items added regularly. These energetically very warm meals Cooking Methods in Detail 33 provided the necessary balance for frequently cool weather conditions. Boiling with Plentiful Water ss Tip: “The Master Soup” rrrss This method reduces the yang energy of foods, In Chinese nutrition, the energetics of a food are especially in vegetables, and is not recommend. influenced by cooking duration and intensity of supplied heat. So-called Master Soups, which simmer over a low heat for between six and 36 hours, are of special significance here. These soups are Cooking with Cooling believed by traditional practitioners of TCM to s contain tremendous healing powers. In TCM, the Ingredients Master Soup is used to treat general qi vacuity or (e.g., Fruit, Sprouts) yang vacuity, and is recommended particularly after long, strenuous illnesses, during recovery, as Using cooling ingredients during cooking balances well as following childbirth to boost strength in excessive yang parts (such as meat) and harmo- the new mother. Prolonged cooking increases the nizes the meal as a whole. warming and strengthening effect of meat and bones. Vegetarian stews experience more of an energetic devaluation as a result of extended cooking times. Warming spices should be used instead Slow, Gentle Frying of prolonged cooking for vegetarian stews to (Braising) r increase the energetics of the meal. Braising with high-quality vegetable oil supplies Example only a moderate amount of heat. Selection of specific ingredients can determine the effect on the organ network: Lentil stew with pork supplements the kidney network. Salting (Pickling in Brine) s Carrot stew with beef supplements the stomach/spleen network. Salt lowers food qi and has a cold thermal nature. By reducing the yang energy of foods, salting increases yin energy. Cooking with Alcohol rr

Alcohol not only enhances the flavor of foods, it Smoking rr also warms them. The movement pattern of alcohol is upbearing, which pulls yang upward. Alco- Smoking supplies foods with yang energy, but less hol also dissolves stagnation, promotes qi and than with grilling. Smoked fish is recommended as blood circulation, and dissipates cold. This can bal- a kidney supplement during colder months. ance qi vacuity in the upper burner. Cooking with Smoked foods should be used rather sparingly, alcohol warms the center burner (stomach and especially in conjunction with excess salt. spleen) and the upper burner (heart and lung). During emotional strains with downbearing qi, such as dejection, resignation, or sadness, meals cooked with alcohol upbear qi and enhance mood. Seasoning rr Cooking with alcohol warms meals, increases the body’s energy, and stimulates qi circulation in the The thermal nature of most spices is either hot or body, which can also loosen emotional blockage warm. Spices not only season foods, but also have and tension. a strong energetic effect on them. They supple- 34 Methodology of Nutritional Therapy ment and warm stomach and spleen. From a Chi- able with sleep disorders, which are a symptom of nese medicine point of view, this explains the internal heat. Sleep disturbances can be provoked digestion-promoting effect of many spices. By by the consumption of acrid spices like garlic, using warming spices such as bay leaf, caraway, or onion, pepper, etc. cloves, many yin vegetables like red cabbage, white cabbage, or sauerkraut become easier to Tip: Warm or hot spices, which raise yang, are digest. Long cooking also contributes to this effect. recommended for a vegetarian diet to balance Highly seasoned foods strongly influence the the cooling effect of vegetable foods. Foods in body’s energy level and should be reduced or general should be seasoned more strongly during avoided during repletion states or inner heat. For cold months to prevent yang vacuity. example, energetically hot coffee can be unfavor- 35 Meal Preparation in Tune with the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water)

Cooking in tune with the five phases wood, fire, of the phases should be allowed to influence the earth, metal, and water is a special method to har- meal for at least half a minute before a new moniously increase the energetic level of a dish. phase (ingredient) follows. No phase may be This cooking method follows the engendering skipped within a cycle. (sheng) cycle. Individual ingredients may be repeated as often The ingredients used in a dish are divided accord- as desired. For example, if using carrots as the ing to the phases they belong to, positioned in a only earth ingredient, some of the carrots can be row, and added to the dish in sequence. In keeping added each time the earth phase comes up in a with the engendering cycle, the individual phases cycle. If more than one earth phase ingredient is potentiate each other’s energetic effect and used, carrots can be added in the first cycle, increase the overall energetic aspect of the dish. sweet potatoes in the second, and zucchini in the third. Practical Application: The phase used to end the Taoist cycle is discre- First, heat a pot on a heat source (fire phase). tionary, but the last phase added to the dish Add oil (earth phase) to move the cooking pro- does impact the overall effect of the dish on the cess one step further in the engendering cycle. body. If the final ingredient is a pinch of salt, the To continue the cycle, follow earth with metal overall energetic aspect of the meal is focused ingredients (e.g., onions). Next, add water ingre- on the water phase (kidneys). If cooking con- dients (e.g., water with some salt). Now add cludes with a wood ingredient, for example vin- wood foods (e.g., tomato). Next, add fire foods egar, the dish will emphasize the wood phase (e.g., thyme). This completes the first round of (liver and gallbladder). the engendering cycle. Now the cycle can begin again, starting with Seemingly strange and unusual ingredients that allow a earth (e.g., carrots), followed by metal (e.g., continuation of the engendering cycle may have a sur- leeks). Each complete cycle may be repeated as prisingly positive effect on the overall flavor of the meal. often as desired. The more often the cycle is run, the higher the energetic effect of the meal. Each Page intentionally left blank 2 Chinese Dietetics in Practice Page intentionally left blank 39 Basic Recommendations of Chinese Dietetics

The Path to Healthy Eating The classic texts recommend: “When angry, it is easy to swallow food, but hard to Habits digest it. When sad, it is hard to swallow and digest food. When experiencing strong emotions, it is advisable Based on its observations and the experience of to delay eating until they have disappeared. Foods centuries, Chinese dietetics introduces a broad should always be ingested at the proper time. This spectrum of valuable, practical recommendations makes it easier to digest them. Delaying eating and for a healthy, holistic diet. being able to digest food is better than eating too soon Along with the right choice of foods and prepara- and not being able to digest. Digestive problems are tion methods, Chinese nutrition also emphasizes accompanied by trouble, while good digestion frees a healthy eating habits and developing a lifelong, person from worry. It is not advisable to eat when strong healthy approach to food. emotions are brewing.”

Well-chewed food supports spleen qi, satisfies hunger more quickly, and prevents obesity. Inner Attitude and Tip: Chinese doctors recommend chewing each Environment bite 10–15 times before swallowing. This prevents weight problems. Eating with Enjoyment and in a Relaxed Atmosphere “Stop when it tastes best” is a good basic principle for determining the right amount to eat. Sleepi- Eating with delight and enjoyment in a leisurely ness or a burdened feeling should not appear after and relaxed atmosphere and without any external a meal. After excessively large meals, the entire qi distractions creates excellent conditions for good and blood of the body is pulled into the center regeneration of qi from food. Positive feelings and burner to cope with the excess. This initially moods generally promote good qi flow. During results in bloating and drowsiness, and in case of meals, positive feelings enable free flow of stom- protracted excess, weakens the digestive organs ach and spleen qi, which supports the smooth pro- and causes dampness and phlegm disorders. cessing of food and effective integration of food qi in the body. Exhausting talks, discussions, and distractions (TV, radio, reading) burden stomach and spleen, which General Recommendations are especially sensitive to emotional tensions such as brooding, worries, anger, and fear. Negative emotions block and weaken the qi of digestive or- Cooking Methods gans, resulting in loss of appetite, bloating, regur- gitation, and stomach pain. “It turned my stom- Chinese dietetics recommends to always “unlock” ach”; “It ruined my appetite”; “The news made me all foods by using appropriate cooking methods to choke on my food” are popular ways of describing make them more accessible and digestible for the this all too common situation. body. This protects center burner qi and allows for Continuous exposure of the stomach/spleen net- more effective transformation of food qi. work to emotional stress can cause serious eating disorders and digestive problems such as obesity, Tip: Grains, preferably freshly ground whole bulimia, anorexia, or gastric ulcers. grains, always require cooking (boiling, simmering, steaming). 40 Chinese Dietetics in Practice

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recom- Highly processed and denatured foods !mends that raw foods, fruit, and especially Food additives tropical fruit should be used in moderation, con- Refined sugar and sweeteners trary to some Western views. Except when part of Frozen foods specific healing diets or during the yang phase of Microwaving summer, these foods are energetically too cool for most Northern latitudes and can cause long-term Tip: Refined sugar should be substituted with vacuity of the center burner when consumed in natural sweeteners, such as raw cane sugar (e.g., excess. Rapadura, an unrefined sugar made from whole raw sugar cane), honey, maple syrup, pear syrup, Common Syndromes molasses made from sugar cane, apple butter, or Spleen/pancreas qi vacuity, spleen/pancreas yang palm sugar. vacuity, phlegm disorders Flavor Food Quantity The body’s “inner voice” often reveals instinctively 50–80 %: Grains form the main share of a healthy which flavor is of special significance. As part of a diet in Chinese dietetics, for example corn, barley, balanced lifestyle, one may give in to this inclina- millet, oats, rice, spelt, wheat tion without hesitation. 30–40 %: Cooked vegetables, for example carrots, potatoes, fennel, beans, cabbage, legumes (beans Example and lentils). Craving sweets makes sense during exhausting 5 %: Meat, for example beef, lamb, game, also mental work or strong physical exertion, since the poultry, or even better fish, because it is easier to sweet flavor has the strongest supplementing digest and develops less dampness. effect and most quickly regenerates qi. However, 5 %: Raw foods, salads, fruit should make up only obvious, one-sided preference for a single flavor a small portion of the overall diet; more during the over a longer period is a diagnostic indicator for a summer. potential imbalance. If a patient, for example, over TCM recommends the intake of only small months or even years seems to prefer sweet fla- amounts of liquid (yin) during meals. Excess liquid vors, this may indicate disharmony of the earth drowns the stomach’s digestive fire. The major phase reflecting an underlying disorder of the share of the daily intake of liquids should be con- stomach, spleen/pancreas organ network. sumed between meals. Energetic Thermal Quality Food Quality Foods with a balanced thermal nature should be Fresh, unpolluted, naturally grown and produced given preference in the daily diet: neutral, warm, foods are considered most valuable in TCM. Fresh- or cool, depending on the times of day, seasons, ness is the highest priority, because fresh foods bioclimatic factors, and constitution. contain the most qi and optimally develop their Acrid, warming spices and herbs may be used gen- specific thermal effect. erously to support the stomach, spleen/pancreas Industrial processing methods and most preserva- network in its digestive function. Combining ener- tives denature qi, which degrades food quality. In getically cold and cool foods with warming foods Chinese dietetics, such foods have weak or empty is very beneficial, for example tomato salad with qi and are energetically inferior. feta cheese, hot peppers, and garlic. Hot and cold foods are thermal extremes and are a Avoid: employed rather sparingly, unless they are used to Polluted foods specifically treat beginning or established patterns Innards of disharmony. Basic Recommendations of Chinese Dietetics 41

Example w Nutritional Therapy Sudden change in weather, pathogenic factor wind– Acrid spices such as ginger, garlic, chili, cinnamon, cold pepper, hot tea with spices, mulled wine, and acridly seasoned soups make sense during such Symptoms times. Beginning cold with shivering, aversion to cold, Excessive use of the two energetic extremes hot sneezing. Cold extremities require yang energy to and cold is not recommended, since they can eas- defend against external pathogenic cold and trans- ily bring about pathological yang or yin patterns of port defense qi to the surface. disharmony. 42 Special Significance of the Earth Phase

“Strengthening the Inner If this network is weakened (stomach qi vacuity or spleen/pancreas qi or yang vacuity), the body Center” invariably develops acute and later chronic qi or yang vacuity. The earth phase and the stomach and spleen/pan- For daily strengthening of stomach and spleen qi creas network (center burner) are of key signifi- and yang, warm and neutral foods from the earth cance in Chinese dietetics. phase with sweet flavor and upbearing movement Earth is yin, nourishing the core, inner balance, are generally the most appropriate. stability, and inner center. The center burner nourishes yin. It develops acquired constitution qi and Foods that Strengthen the Center Burner yang and is responsible for intake, processing, and digestion of foods. According to TCM, a large part Foods from the Earth Phase (about 70 %) of the postnatal, renewable qi is taken Grains from gu qi (drum qi). Millet Li Gao, the famous Chinese scholar of the Song Corn dynasty (AD 960–1280), emphasized the special Oats status of the center burner by founding a school Rice just for the “strengthening of the center,” which specifically focused on prevention, diagnosis, and Vegetables therapy of the center burner. Carrots Cabbage (all types) During the Ming Dynasty (AD 1368–1644), the follow- Fennel ing quote developed: “Knowing how to treat the center Potatoes is knowing how to bring all networks into balance.” Peas Squash, pumpkin All therapy began with “strengthening the inner Soy beans center,” the consistent development and protec- Meat tion of the stomach and spleen/pancreas network, Beef, veal primarily through nutritional therapy. Poultry, duck, goose Many doctors were of the opinion that only when Lamb, goat the Center Burner is balanced can the body form Venison enough qi, blood, and body fluids. This forms the Fish basis for subsequent therapies such as acupunc- Bass ture. Carp Herring The physician Sun Si Miao said this in the classical texts: Mackerel “When treating an illness, the first step should be Sardine dietary therapy. Only when this is unsuccessful should Raw foods one try drugs,” and further, “Without knowledge of a proper diet it is hardly possible to enjoy good health.” Sweet apples Dates, figs Grapes This once again illustrates the importance of Papaya strengthening the function of the center burner daily through appropriate diet, in order to build up Beverages enough food qi to optimally regenerate the body’s Fennel tea (especially for infants and children) entire acquired qi. Grape juice Liqueurs Special Significance of the Earth Phase 43

An excess of sweet, “heavy,” or fatty foods; they Tip: Aperitifs or herbal liqueurs (e.g., aniseed or weaken spleen qi and form dampness and star anise) with warming effect of high-proof phlegm. alcoholic beverages and warming herbs, before or after meals, are supportive “medicine” for the Foods that are energetically too cool, as well as stomach and spleen/pancreas network. !refrigerated foods, significantly cool down the stomach’s digestive fire. Cold blocks qi flow and While the spleen is responsible for the production causes food stagnation, resulting in stomach qi of qi, the stomach is responsible for the production ascending counterflow. Symptoms: Nausea, vomit- of body fluids. The stomach should be supported ing, bloating, and gas. Acute and especially pro- with moistening, cooling foods that have a tracted use of foods that are too “cold” weaken downbearing movement. stomach and spleen qi and yang permanently, with symptoms such as loss of appetite, chronic fatigue, a Avoid: sloppy stool, slight shivering, cold hands and feet. Foods with cool and cold thermal nature; too many raw foods, citrus fruits, salad, or fruit. In case of “chronic cooling” of the center burner They cool down the body too much and weaken (an excess of dairy or raw foods), the lower burner qi and yang, especially stomach and spleen qi. is forced to produce more warmth. Protracted An excess of dairy products; they are energeti- exposure can weaken kidney fire and cause kidney cally cool and cause dampness and phlegm. yang vacuity.

Foods to Support Spleen Yang: Foods to Support Stomach Yin: Bass, beef, carrots, all cabbage varieties, crayfish, All cabbage varieties, cheese, duck, eggplant, corn, fennel, potatoes, poultry, oats, soy beans, goose, milk, pork, potatoes, rice, tofu, tomatoes, venison wheat 44 Nutrition and Daily Rhythms

The classic texts recommend: Note: Dairy products are appropriate in small “Meals should always be taken at the proper time. This amounts when spleen qi is good. Otherwise, they makes them easier to digest,” and further, “Yang qi are energetically too cold and can easily cause increases around noon and is weak at sunset. Thus eat a dampness or phlegm. hearty breakfast, a small lunch, and a frugal meal in the evening and at night.”

The following three main meals should be eaten Lunch daily and at about the same time, when possible supplemented by two smaller meals (snacks), for Lunch is preferably a substantial, warm meal that example around 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. strengthens the center burner. Warming grains and vegetables are highly recommended, as well as fish, poultry, some lean meat and salad.

Breakfast Tip: A good meal does not burden the body or cause drowsiness. Avoid fatty, oily foods, foods Since the stomach is at its optimal digestive capac- that are too cold, or meals that are too big. They ity between 7 and 9 a.m., the morning meal should produce dampness in the body, slow down qi be substantial and fortifying. flow, and cause fatigue and sluggishness. A good breakfast strengthens stomach and spleen qi and yang for the day. Optimal breakfast foods are energetically warming foods, prepared with warm cooking methods that stimulate the body Evening Meal/Dinner and do not spread dampness. In the evening, yang and digestive capacity r Recommended decrease and yin increases. The evening meal An ideal start to a good day begins with a cooked should be small and support the growing yin,for (warm) porridge of grains, ideally freshly ground, example warm grain and vegetable dishes, possi- especially millet, corn, or the very warming oats bly some meat, moderate amounts of dairy or soy (e.g., oatmeal). During summer, the slightly cooler products and a small amount of beer. wheat is recommended. The porridge can be combined with nuts, seeds, and a little seasonal fruit. If a Avoid: needed, sweeten lightly to supplement, using Energetically hot, stimulating foods, such as honey or marmalade or the other sweeteners acridly seasoned foods. mentioned earlier. Black tea or coffee, both in moderation, are suitable breakfast beverages to Tip: Opulent meals in the evening burden the support yang. stomach and spleen qi, which is naturally lower in the evening. Often, such meals result in weight Avoid a gain, nausea, bloating, and disturbed sleep. Peo- Energetically cold and dampness-producing foods ple with weight problems should not eat at all that suppress the expanding morning yang and after 6 p.m., when digestive organs are at their weaken digestive fire, i.e., fruit, fruit juices, raw weakest. foods, excess dairy products. 45 Nutrition and Seasonal Rhythms

A multitude of the body’s internal processes follow Summer (Hot Season) natural external changes of the seasons. By developing eating habits and choosing foods that are in Summer is the season of the big yang and is char- tune with the seasons, we can integrate ourselves acterized by the fire phase and summer heat. Heat into these rhythms in a natural way. Chinese feeds on body fluids and harms yin. It is recom- dietetics views this as beneficial for promoting mended to take in predominately cooling, damp- natural qi flow, compensating for weather effects ness-providing foods (yin food) to disperse heat and preventing potential development of disor- and build up body fluids. The bitter flavor corre- ders. sponds to the fire phase, and mostly bitter–cool as well as bitter–cold foods in moderation should be Tip: Choosing foods that are local and in season consumed during the hot season. is good and easy advice to follow. r Recommended Summer Foods Fruit or fruit juices: Apple, lemon, kiwi, melon, orange, pear, pineapple, tangerine Spring Cooling foods: Cucumber, Belgian endive hearts, spinach, tomato, as well as more raw foods, sal- Spring is the season of the beginning small yang ads, yogurt, wheat, barley, black or even better and is characterized by growth, movement, and green tea, mineral water, wheat beer, mussels, expansion. The body’s qi flows strongly again and rabbit seeks to expand freely. Food during this season should supplement qi, allow it to course freely, and Tip: The Chinese have recommended green tea support spleen and liver functions. as an ideal beverage during summer heat for centuries. “It disperses summer heat and can expel r Recommended Spring Foods toxins, cool the heart fire, calm the mind, remove Mildly warming foods with upbearing move- heat from liver and gallbladder, and relieve stomach ment: Fennel, rice, buckwheat; possibly acrid and lung.” flavors (garlic, paprika, ginger) in case of accu- mulated dampness left over from the colder months. a Avoid: Sour flavors, because they stabilize liver yin and Dry and energetically hot foods such as coffee (!) can regulate upbearing liver yang. and acrid spices. Also avoid ice-cold foods and Foods from the wood phase, green in color with beverages and ice cream, because they abruptly neutral, cool, or warm energy: Green tea, spin- block the stomach’s digestive energy. ach, celery, a little more raw foods and sprouts In the view of Chinese medicine, children have a physiologically weak center burner until they are Wind is often the dominating weather effect dur- about eight years old. They are especially sensitive ing spring and causes recurring external wind dis- to cold foods and beverages. orders (colds, flu), which can be balanced with the mildly acrid flavors of green onions and ginger. Symptoms Sudden diarrhea and vomiting, often in the sum- a Avoid: mer after extensive swimming (external cold), in Energetically hot and fatty foods, as they block combination with ice cream and cold beverages. liver qi, and excess sour flavors. w Nutritional Therapy Fennel tea with spices 46 Chinese Dietetics in Practice

Autumn Winter (Cold Season)

Autumn is characterized by the external decline of Winter is the period when the big yin gathers and nature and, in many climates, by drying and cool- hides qi in deeper layers, which makes the body ing. The natural movement pattern of autumn is more susceptible to cold disorders. During the directed inward. Yang energy decreases, the small colder months, a warm, supplementing diet with yin appears, and the energies of the body gather on acrid and sweet flavors that builds up and moves the inside. Foods with downbearing movement qi and protects it against cold stagnations is impor- and sour flavor (apple) support “inner” composure tant. and serenity in the body. r Recommended Winter Foods r Recommended Autumn Foods Warm meats that supplement qi, yang and blood: Mildly acrid and energetically warm foods that Lamb, venison, game, beef, poultry, duck, stews with compensate for the onset of external cold such as legumes and meat; also grapes and red wine. oats, millet, corn, rice, carrots, leeks, radishes, cau- The cold season diet should focus on strengthen- liflower, beef, lamb. For inner cold, shivering, and ing kidney and spleen yang with lamb, venison, the beginning of a cold, the acrid flavors of garlic, prawns, high-proof alcoholic beverages, acrid cinnamon, chili, ginger, and onions stimulate qi spices, aniseed (star anise), cloves, tea with spices, circulation and rapidly bring defensive energy to fennel, leek, walnuts, chestnuts, black sesame, the surface. oysters. For external dampness, warm, dry foods should be The best time to build up qi and blood with a used to support the center burner (millet, rice) and sweet, supplementing diet is at the end of winter. the lungs (acrid spices to drive away dampness and phlegm disorders). If dryness predominates, Li Shi Chin, at the time of the Ming Dynasty, recom- moistening foods (pear, tofu, peanuts) should be mends moderate, but regular consumption of alcohol. utilized. “Alcoholic beverages are bitter and acrid in flavor and hot in thermal nature. When consumed regularly and in a Avoid: the right amount, alcohol regulates blood flow, pro- Fatty, oily foods, and cool or cold dairy products, motes qi circulation, stimulates the mind, and warms which burden the spleen and cause dampness and the body.” phlegm disorders (bronchitis, sinusitis), especially during wet weather (see “Dampness and Phlegm A word of caution: “All good things in modera- Disorders,” p. 64). !tion ...”

a Avoid: An excess of energetically hot, warm, and acrid foods because they dry up body fluids, weaken yin, and encourage yang repletion disorders. 47 Nutrition and Pathogenic Factors

The pathogenic factors heat, cold, dampness, dry- Dampness ness, and wind have a significant effect on the body. Nutritional therapy can remove the damag- Dampness calls for warming, drying, and damp- ing effects of external climate factors, as well ness-transforming foods, because they supple- as internal pathological states. Sudden weather ment the spleen. Bitter–warm flavors, warm– changes often require rapid and flexible changes in sweet flavors and warm–acrid flavors should be diet. preferred.

w Nutritional Therapy Millet, rice, amaranth, pear, cherries, grapes, and Cold warming spices like ginger (in moderation).

When the body is affected by cold, it should be a Avoid: supplied with sufficient yang energy with the help Oily, fatty foods, excessively sweet foods, fatty of energetically hot and warm food. The meats, pork, bananas, sugar, too much dairy. acrid–spicy and sweet flavors, as well as hearty dishes, should be favored. Note: Protracted dampness can cause phlegm. This calls for dry foods, such as millet or Belgian endive w Nutritional Therapy hearts, and bitter–warm, sweet–neutral, or sweet– Acrid spices such as chili, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, warm flavors. Moderately acrid flavors can dis- star anise, cloves, onions, Chinese leeks (garlic solve phlegm stagnation. With phlegm disorders, chives), coriander. fatty–oily foods should be avoided, as should foods Also high-proof alcoholic beverages, mulled wine, that are too hot. Consumption of phlegm-produc- grog (a hot rum beverage with spices similar to hot ing foods, such as dairy products and banana, buttered rum), cooking with alcohol, tea with should also be reduced. spices, oats, fennel, lamb, venison. Dryness

Heat Dryness calls for fluid-promoting, moistening foods, refreshing vegetables, fruit and vegetable Heat calls for energetically cooling and cold foods, juices, as well as salads. as well as the bitter and sour flavors. For dehydration and external dryness, foods should also w Nutritional Therapy moisten. Pear, melon, tomato, banana, grapes, wheat, peanuts, pine nuts, soy products, dairy products, pork. w Nutritional Therapy Cooling fruit such as pineapple, tangerine, melon, orange, lemon, kiwi. Cooling vegetables such as dandelion, tomato, cucumber, Belgian endive External Wind hearts, spinach. Also salads, mung bean sprouts, yogurt, wheat, External wind often acts as a carrier for the barley, black or better green tea, mineral water, weather factors cold and heat. wheat beer. 48

Wind–Cold Internal Wind w Nutritional Therapy Internal wind has a distinct yang character: Dizzi- Acrid spices such as chili, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, ness, tremors, spasms, disturbed vision. green onions. w Nutritional Therapy Avoid all foods that move qi. Wind–Heat Preferable: Eggplant, celery, water chestnut, sun- w Nutritional Therapy flower seeds, banana, pike/perch, bass, rabbit. Eggplant, green tea, watermelon, chamomile tea. 49 Nutrition and the Human Life Cycle

Children and Young People also important for children when combined with other methods of healing. Children should be introduced to good eating habits early. A healthy diet that develops body and mind is of vital importance to their health later in life. Strengthening the center burner is a priority, Midlife since it is still underdeveloped in children. Neutral to mildly warming foods of the sweet flavor are During the middle phase of life, generally all foods ideal for children. are suitable. The diet should be varied and in tune with individual constitution, the seasons, and the w Nutritional Therapy for Children weather. General nutritional guidelines should be Millet, rice, barley, carrots, fennel, apples, honey, followed. raisins, poultry, beef, potatoes, grape juice, fennel tea. a Avoid: Children have a natural craving for sweet foods An unbalanced diet and an excess of meat, raw and require “sweet” in the view of TCM, because it foods, fats, dairy products, and coffee. is the best flavor for strengthening the center burner.

Tip: Sugar should be replaced with natural Older People sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, pear juice, molasses from sugar cane, apple butter, Several smaller meals throughout the day are rec- and sweet, warming fruits. Popular and ideal for ommended for older people, since their digestive kids are raisins and dates, displayed in a visually fire is weaker and meals can be more easily appealing way. digested that way. Diet should prevent qi or blood vacuity. Center burner and kidney essence should be supported. a Avoid: Energetically cold, cool foods, acrid spices, sugar, w Preferred Foods for Older People excess dairy products, fatty foods. Well cooked foods, porridge, eggs, fish, stews, A healing diet is well-suited for treating children Master Soups. with already manifest disorders (hyperactivity, allergies, headaches) and is well tolerated. Often, a Avoid: reduced intake of specific foods or substances and Raw foods, fatty, oily, or roasted dishes, excessive a change of diet is all that is needed for lasting salt consumption. improvements in children. Nutritional therapy is Page intentionally left blank 3Practical Application of Chinese Dietetics

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B Specific Applications of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions ...... 67 Page intentionally left blank 53

General Applications A of Chinese Dietetics

Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice

The Role of Chinese General Indications Nutrition in Traditional for Chinese Dietetics

Chinese Medicine (TCM) Daily general regeneration and balancing of qi, blood (xue), body fluids (jin ye), and spirit (shen). Nutrition has played an important role in China’s Specific supplementation of qi, yang, yin, and traditional medical system for many centuries and especially blood (xue) and body fluids (jin ye). continues to do so. Chinese physicians have always Stabilizing, invigorating, or calming the spirit regarded food as medicine. Eating a balanced diet (shen). was how the body was kept in harmony. Changing Preserving essence (jing) with high-quality weather conditions throughout the year were foods and regular eating habits. taken into account by adjusting the diet accord- Supplementing and balancing the organ net- ingly and choosing the appropriate ingredients. works and the bowels and viscera (zang fu or- Today, nutrition is still firmly rooted in public gans). awareness in China and is regarded as an essential Supplementing, regenerating, and moving element in achieving a long and fulfilled life. The defense qi (wei qi). Chinese diet is a preventive diet. External climate Supplementing and balancing the spleen/pan- factors determine daily food choices. In times of creas and stomach organ networks. extreme cold, dishes using acrid spices provide Balancing disturbing effects brought on by increased nourishment for the body. In winter, the weather or other external factors. emphasis is on warming and hot dishes, while in Harmonizing the body with the seasons. times of extreme external heat, the body is calmed with cooling dishes. Such a preventive diet can be In essence, diet influences all functions and pro- practiced in other parts of the world and can be cesses in the body. followed by most people. It requires no special A few other proven indications for Chinese nutri- expertise other than a general understanding of tion should also be mentioned here: Chinese nutritional principles. Healing diets that Supplementing the center burner in children. address imbalance, however, require a clear diag- Treating patterns of disharmony in children. nosis and development of a therapy strategy by a Prevention during pregnancy by strengthening professional TCM practitioner. qi, particularly blood (xue) and body fluids (jin ye). General regeneration after childbirth, especially in cases of exhaustion. Specific treatment of constitutional disorders. Treating disorders caused by dampness and phlegm. 54 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics

Treating acute and chronic conditions. This own constitution, individual food choices, differ- includes disorders of the respiratory system, ent interactions, dietary habits, etc. allergies, acute and chronic gastrointestinal dis- People interested in prevention through diet can orders, skin disorders, gynecological disorders, benefit from consulting a qualified TCM practitio- menopausal symptoms, urological disorders, ner who can give specific advice. The confidence a insomnia, psychological instabilities, exhaus- practitioner can instill for the individualized appli- tion, weight gain, hyperactivity. cation of Chinese nutrition at home makes such a consultation a worthwhile investment. Important: Nutritional therapy designed to heal illness must always be based on an informed diagnosis by a qualified TCM practitioner. Therapy must Don’t Worry about consider both the possibilities and the limitations Dogmatism of nutritional healing. Dietary therapy is commonly used in conjunction with other methods of Chinese nutrition has nothing to do with rigid Chinese medicine. Experienced TCM practitioners diets or instructions that have to be followed dog- can also achieve excellent results by combining matically. On the contrary, enjoyment involving all TCM with the diagnosis and therapy of Western the senses is a vital part of any diet. Nor does it medicine and naturopathy—all to the patient’s mean that from now on all one’s meals have to be advantage. eaten with chopsticks, or that the fridge has to be stocked with bamboo sprouts, Chinese (napa) cab- The following tips help you achieve compliance bage, and tofu. The principles of Chinese nutrition !in your patients, which is so crucial to the suc- can be applied to any cuisine or cooking style. The cess of dietary advice! only knowledge that is required is an understand- When prescribing a preventive diet, acknowledge ing of the thermal and energetic principles of your patients’ individual preferences to achieve foods, spices, and cooking methods, and an aware- the greatest possible compliance. ness of the adjustments to be made for seasons, climate effects, physical constitution, and individ- In cases where a healing diet is appropriate, a ual sensitivities. patient’s distinct preferences can provide valuable therapeutic clues to patterns of disharmony. A patient’s constitution should be at the center of Tips for Giving Nutritional Advice any decisions made about dietary prescriptions. Dietary recommendations always need to be Basic knowledge of Chinese nutrition enables any- adapted to the seasons and bioclimatic factors. one to manage their health by choosing the right Chinese nutrition requires more time than other foods and developing healthy eating habits. This treatments and thus a little patience. Let your primarily requires a knowledge of the thermal patients know that tangible results might not be nature of foods (see the tables at the back of this felt or seen for weeks or months, but that, once book, p. 220) to respond appropriately to seasonal achieved, these results can last a lifetime. Inform changes, climate factors such as cold, dampness, your patients that dietary therapy is a great oppor- and summer heat, or extreme physical or emo- tunity for developing healthy and beneficial eating tional strain. habits that will keep them in good health for years However, people new to TCM, even when in good to come. health, quickly start asking questions about their Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 55

Suggestions for giving dietary advice To give competent and professional dietary Provide your patient with written information. advice, you should have a sound knowledge of This includes: the principles of Chinese nutrition (both pre- – An individual diet plan with a list of all foods ventive and healing diets) and should be that are appropriate for the patient; trained in TCM diagnosis. – General basic information about energetic During the initial consultation, you can assess principles, healthy eating habits, different your patient’s constitution by paying attention cooking methods, supplementing the center to certain criteria and then deepen your obser- burner, etc. vations by asking your patient specific ques- – Copies of recipes for specific preparations, tions. such as the Master Soup, congees, medicinal Let your patients tell you about their eating wines (see p. 33, 117, 160). habits, food preferences, etc. This makes your own work easier, takes less time, Ask your patients about their digestion. and enables patients to explore the information Communicate the results of your observations at their own pace at home. to your patients and explain in detail the diet Length of initial consultation: between 20 and plan that will accompany them in the following 100 minutes. weeks. Arrange a second appointment three to six Clearly mark all foods that are good for the weeks later. patient with a “+,” and foods that are bad for Possible follow-up questions can be answered the patient with a “–”; over the phone (have a phone consultation Make recommendations about eating habits schedule). and food preparation (tailored to the diagnosis) During the second consultation, answer any during the initial consultation. questions and clear up any uncertainties. Have the patient describe any noticeable successes or results. 56 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics

Too much oily, fatty food: Blocks the flow of qi General Nutritional and causes heat, dampness, and phlegm. Recommendations Too much sugar, sweet flavors: Causes heat, dampness and phlegm. (for sharing with patients) Too much alcohol: Causes damp heat, promotes formation of phlegm and hurts jing, along with a number of other unpleasant effects. !Please take the following to heart: Too much meat: Causes dampness and phlegm. Use high-quality, clean, and unprocessed foods, Late evening meals: Block the flow of qi, cause organically grown whenever possible. food obstruction, weaken the spleen/pancreas Create a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere in which network, and lead to weight gain. you can enjoy your meals. Overly opulent meals: Block flow of qi, cause food Eat with pleasure. stagnation, burden the spleen/pancreas net- Eat regularly, between three to five times a day. work, cause dampness and phlegm and lead to Do not rush your meals and chew each bite well weight gain. (between 10 and 15 times)! Excessive and prolonged fasting: Weakens the Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like an emperor, center burner, as well as yin, blood (xue), and and dinner like a beggar. jing. Stop eating when it tastes best! Drink only small amounts of liquids during meals; too much liquid with meals, or right before and right after a meal can weaken your Application Areas digestive fire. When putting together a meal, take into account Application Goal: Prevention your individual constitution. Choose foods that are appropriate for the season The main application for Chinese nutrition is pre- (choosing locally grown foods that are in season vention and general healthy living. Mild states of is often a good way). disharmony that are common in everyday life, for When following a vegetarian diet, ensure your example those caused by bioclimatic factors such diet contains enough energetically warming as cold or heat, or brought on by times of stress, foods; increase the use of acrid spices in cold can be balanced with appropriate preparation and weather. choice of foods. Choosing foods in accordance and harmony with the seasons protects the body against disorders and helps it to live in tune with natural rhythms. !Please avoid the following: Too much raw or cold food and tropical fruits: Example These are energetically too cool, reduce the During the cold seasons (fall and winter in the energy of the center burner, and if consumed, Northern hemisphere), one should increase the regularly, can cool the kidney organ network. intake of warm or hot foods with pronounced yang Ice-cold beverages: They block stomach and character. Fruits and salads—foods that are mostly spleen/pancreas qi flow and weaken spleen qi yin—are not recommended during the colder and spleen yang. months, because they cool down the energetics of Too much dairy: Dairy products are energetically the body even further, instead of warming it and too cool. They weaken the spleen/pancreas net- protecting it from external cold. work and cause dampness and phlegm. Exhausting discussions or other distractions Application Goal: Therapy during a meal (TV, radio, reading): They can block the flow of qi in the center burner and Therapy always first requires a diagnosis based on cause food stagnation. the principles of TCM. The appropriate choice of foods provides a foundation for further treatment Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 57 methods such as acupuncture and herbal therapy. births spaced too closely; external Dietary therapy adjusted to the individual’s symp- cold; chronic illnesses. toms creates a good basis for additional treat- Diet: Too much thermally cold food, yin ments, resulting in quicker and more effective products, or raw foods; irregular eating improvement. Chinese practitioners find it hard to habits; too much dairy; too many trop- understand why most doctors in the Western ical fruits, frozen foods, denaturalized world utilize only one treatment at a time, for foods, canned foods, or ice-cold bever- example acupuncture, instead of making full use ages; hasty eating; eating too late in of all treatments available and coming up with a the day. comprehensive treatment strategy. In traditional Chinese hospitals, a patient’s individual diet plan Prevention is part of a holistic treatment concept. w Nutritional Therapy Example The treatment of insomnia, which aims to drain Thermal nature Neutral, warming, sometimes yang, will not prove successful through acupunc- hot ture alone if patients continue to stimulate their Cooking method Warming yang by consuming warm or hot foods. Examples are coffee, hot spices, garlic, onions, and lamb. By Flavor Neutral–sweet, warm–sweet, ignoring dietary recommendations, the patient neutral–acrid, warm–acrid, neutral–salty, warm–salty, essentially works against the acupuncture treat- occasionally also hot ment rather than with it. Abstaining from foods containing yang and giving preference to yin foods, Grains Oats, millet, corn, rice, on the other hand, supports the acupuncture treat- short-grain (sweet, glutinous) ment and promotes success. rice, spelt Meat Poultry, lamb, beef, game (venison) ¢ General Qi Vacuity Fish Oysters, trout, lobster, salmon, anchovies Qi vacuity can appear in any of the networks. The most common causes for general qi vacuity are Vegetables Fennel, carrots, leeks, vacuity of spleen qi, kidney qi, and lung qi. chestnuts Spices Acrid and hot, ginger, garlic, Symptoms coriander Fatigue, exhaustion, lack of appetite, lack of con- Nuts and seeds Hazelnuts, black sesame, centration, abdominal bloating; soft, sloppy stool; walnuts tendency to diarrhea, tendency to feel cold and to shiver, aversion to cold, lowered resistance, fre- Legumes Lentils quent backaches in the lumbar vertebral column, frequent urination with clear urine, large amounts Tip: Have a substantial, warming breakfast, for of urine, nocturia (excessive night time urination), example warm millet porridge or oatmeal, and at dyspnea (shortness of breath), premature ejacula- least one or two warm meals daily, for example tion, reduced sexual desire, impotence. Master Soup, stews. Tongue: Pale, swollen Pulse: Vacuous, weak Supplement spleen qi Causes ST-36 CV-12 SP-3 General: Stress, overexertion, lack of sleep, too p many negative emotions such as wor- Supplement kidney qi ries, anxiety, fear, brooding; too much CV- 6 KI- 7 Moxa sexual activity; in women, too many p 58 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics

¢ General Yang Vacuity ¢ General Yin Vacuity

Yang vacuity can present similar symptoms as qi Yin vacuity is a deeper disorder of the body and vacuity, because yang vacuity is always preceded can affect each of the organ networks. Syndromes by protracted qi vacuity and the transition seen frequently in practice are yin vacuity of the between the two is not clearly delineated. liver, heart, lung, and kidney networks. Yin vacuity can damage the substance of the organ network Symptoms involved. Primarily cold symptoms, such as cold, pale extremities, general weakness, severe mental and Symptoms physical exhaustion, lack of drive, general loss of Thirst, dry mouth, hot soles of the feet, especially strength, as well as water retention in form of at night, possibly hot hands, burning sensation edemas. Women can encounter menstrual disor- behind the chest bone, night sweat, possibly ders, missed periods, and diarrhea. weight loss. Symptoms that occur due to pseudo- Tongue: Pale, swollen, with tooth impressions yang as a result of yin vacuity: Restlessness, agita- Pulse: Vacuous, weak tion, nervousness, sleep disorders, dizziness, internal heat sensation; dry, hard stool; easily startled, emotional instability, susceptibility to stress, lack Prevention of resiliency. Basically the same as for qi vacuity. However, Tongue: Red, chapped mmore foods with strong yang character can Pulse: Rapid, thin. be used. Causes Cooking method Warming, grilled, fried General causes: Long chronic illnesses, depletion Meat Beef, poultry, lamb, game of body fluids, for example due to (especially venison) extreme fever; protracted blood loss; excessive sexual activity; excessive Also Fennel, walnuts, chestnuts, drug use or medication abuse; extreme corn, raisins, cherries, peaches, emotional strain such as worry, grief, leeks, acrid spices fear; overexertion and overwork; sleep deprivation due to nighttime work; Master Soup and stews with warming hectic and stressful lifestyle that cre- c meat and vegetables. ates internal heat and exhausts body fluids. Dietary causes: Excessive intake of extremely Supplement kidney yang warming foods, especially acrid spices KI-7 SP-3 CV-6 that dry out the body fluids and hurt p the yin. Additional factors are excessive Supplement spleen yang intake of coffee, high-proof alcoholic p ST-36 + Moxa GV-4 + Moxa beverages, poor and irregular diet. Prevention

w Nutritional Therapy

a Avoid: Heat; foods with yang characteristics; the flavors hot–bitter, warm–bitter, hot–acrid, warm– acrid; hot and warm foods or beverages, especially coffee, black tea, red wine; garlic, ginger, acrid spices; high-proof alcohol. Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 59 r Recommended: vacuity, such as overexertion, lack of Yin foods with neutral–sweet and refreshing– sleep. sweet flavor. Dietary causes: Irregular intake of food; rushed meals eaten under stress; main meal in Meat/fish Pork, oysters the late evening; too much raw food, Vegetables Cooling, refreshing vegetables, salads and dairy products that produce spinach, tomatoes, seaweed too much dampness and phlegm. Grains Spelt, corn, rice, wheat Prevention Fruit Apples, pears, blackberries, citrus fruit, strawberries, bananas, Successfully dealing with the stresses and grapes mchallenges of everyday life while staying Dairy products Butter, cheese, yogurt, milk healthy requires a healthy and supportive diet. Healthy eating habits should be developed to sus- Soy products Tofu, soy milk tain the energy necessary for facing the demands Beverages Red fruit juices, citrus juices, of daily life and establishing a balanced state of wheat beer health.

a Avoid: Replenish yin by supplementing spleen yin, Yin foods; damp foods, especially dairy products; kidney yin, and liver yin raw fruit and vegetables; excess sweet flavors; KI-3 SP-6 KI-6 p hasty, irregular meals; main meal in the late evening; inadequate breakfast; too much fat and oil. p CV-6 LR-8 r Recommended: Moderately warming foods and cooking methods. ¢ For dampness and phlegm, especially bitter–warm Yin Repletion (Excess) flavors, but also sweet– warm, warm–salty, and Dampness warm–refreshing, as well as all neutral flavors. Moderate intake of hot foods. Yin repletion is often caused by a poor, insufficient Also: Ginger, cardamom, leeks, pears, cher- diet. Consuming too many yin products cools the ries, carp, millet. body, harms spleen qi, and causes dampness. This For additional recommendations, see also syndrome can worsen due to a weak spleen and “Strengthening the Inner Center,” page 42. can, over time, lead to phlegm disorders. Yin repletion reduces the body’s yang energy. ¢ r Symptoms Yang Repletion (Excess) Lack of drive; fatigue; slowed movements and Conditions language; cold hands; feeling of heaviness inside the body, as well as in the arms and legs; dull Yang repletion displays different levels of intensity headache which the patient often describes as a and is a commonly found pattern of disharmony in “feeling like I am wearing a helmet”; tendency to medical practice. It is important to differentiate diarrhea, bloating, water retention in arms, legs, real yang repletion from “pseudo-yang” repletion and face; a melancholic disposition, sometimes or “empty heat.” Real yang repletion is a short-term depression; obesity. surplus of yang. “Pseudo-yang” repletion is the appearance of yang repletion symptoms caused by Causes the absence of yin, which can lead to an increased General causes: General factors that can cause appearance of yang character. spleen qi vacuity and general yang Draining yang can initially alleviate both patterns. If the cause is complete yin vacuity, as is the case 60 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics with “pseudo-yang” repletion, yin needs to be flavors can dry out body fluids and replenished along with draining yang in order to deplete the body’s yin. These heat establish lasting harmony. symptoms often appear in combination with hot, viscous phlegm and fre- r Symptoms quently result from excessive con- Red complexion, hyperactivity, restlessness, anxi- sumption of very oily or fatty foods. ety, loud voice, boisterous laugh, dominating per- The liver organ network is especially sonality, irritability, and tendency to outbursts of sensitive to heat and fatty, oily foods anger. Body feels hot, thirst, tendency to get head- (junk food). aches, dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), headache in the temporal region (shao yang head- Prevention ache due to upbearing liver yang), bitter taste in mouth (liver fire), excessive perspiration, high w Nutritional Therapy blood pressure, episodes of voracious appetite with a tendency to weight gain (stomach heat). a Avoid: All energetically hot foods and beverages, espe- Causes cially acrid spices such as curry, ginger, garlic, and General causes: The majority of yang symptoms are pepper. Onions, high-proof alcohol, warming caused by a relative yang surplus and cooking methods like frying, grilling. Decrease result from a yin vacuity of the affected consumption of thermally warm foods and meat bowel (zang organ). Emotional strains (abstain from meat for four to six weeks, especially such as stress, a hectic lifestyle, and lamb, beef, poultry, pork). Decrease intake of cof- suppressed emotions such as rage, fee, red wine, and salt. anger, and frustration harm the organ network of heart and liver. The longer Recommended: an emotional imbalance persists, the r Yin foods with neutral–sweet, cool–sweet, cold– more the organs are impaired. The liver sweet, neutral–sour, cool–sour, cold–sour flavor. phase is especially sensitive and can Vegetables: Tomatoes, spinach, cucumbers, celery suffer deep-seated damage from pro- Grains: Wheat, barley tracted stagnation of liver qi when qi Fruit: Apples, pears, citrus fruit, raspberries, flow is blocked due to suppressed emo- gooseberries tions. This creates a precarious balance that can easily be upset by even minor yang effects such as stress or the wrong ¢ Blood Vacuity (Xue Xu) diet (high-proof alcohol, acrid spices), invoking symptoms of ascendant liver Blood vacuity is an important syndrome in Chi- yang (gan yang shang kang) and liver nese pathophysiology and is very commonly found fire (gan huo shang yan) in practice. Blood vacuity is often at the root of Dietary causes: Green tea, mineral water, wheat many gynecological disorders. Men have more qi beer, tofu, mung beans, dandelion, Bel- in their blood and thus tend to suffer more from qi gian endive hearts, peppermint tea, problems. cow’s milk, yogurt, cheese, farmer’s cheese, cottage cheese, buttermilk. Patients often prefer acrid flavors to relax the body and loosen any existing emotional blockages, or excessively sweet flavors to counteract frustrations and grief. Acrid–warm flavors and acrid–hot flavors, like all thermally hot foods, can cause heat-related symptoms. Bitter–hot, as well as all other hot Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 61

Symptoms Therapy

General: Pale skin, pale lips, sensation of Strengthen blood dizziness inside head, dull Supplement spleen qi complexion, numbness, Enrich liver blood fatigue, dry hair and skin. SP-10 ST-36 BL-17 SP-6 Liver blood vacu- Blurred vision, sleep disorders, p LR-8 SP-2 BL-21 ity (gan xue xu): dry and brittle nails, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, sensation of “pins and needles” or falling asleep of the limbs, sen- w Nutritional Therapy sitivity of eyes to light, psychological, mental, and a Avoid: gynecological symptoms, lack Warming cooking methods and thermally hot of drive, nervousness, emo- foods. All bitter foods, especially the flavors tional frailty, low self-esteem, bitter–hot and bitter–warm. Acrid–hot and acrid– heart palpitations, menstrual warm flavors, since these dry out blood. Black tea, disorders such as painful men- hot chocolate, acrid spices such as garlic, ginger, struation or absence of menstruation (dysmenorrhea or pepper, curry, cinnamon, etc. Energetically hot amenorrhea). drinks such as coffee, high-proof alcohol, yogi tea (chai).

Chronic blood vacuity symptoms are general dry- r Recommended: ness: Dry skin, dry hair, possibly hair loss, and brittle nails. Blood vacuity can create favorable condi- Cooking method Cooling tions for liver wind, causing dry skin conditions Flavor Sweet–neutral, sweet–warm, accompanied by severe itching and blisters on sour–neutral, sour–cool alternating parts of the body. Grains Oats, amaranth, short-grain Tongue: Pale, small; dry tongue body (glutinous) rice, rice Pulse: Thin, fine or rough Vegetables All thermally neutral and Pathogenesis refreshing vegetables like red TCM believes that blood is primarily formed in the beets, red cabbage, carrots, spleen. Blood vacuity can therefore be caused by spinach, fennel spleen vacuity. Blood formed in the spleen with Meat Chicken, chicken liver, beef, help from the lungs becomes “spirited” with qi and beef stock, beef liver, veal liver, jing from the kidneys as it circulates. Not until then lamb liver (liver preferably from does blood from the spleen have the necessary organically raised animals or energy. Good blood formation also requires bal- aninmals living in the wild) anced lung and kidney energy. The liver plays an Fish Oysters, mussels, squid important role as a storage organ for blood. This (octopus), perch, eel means that any blood vacuity eventually leads to Fruits Red grapes, sweet cherries, liver disharmony with liver blood vacuity (gan xue longans (a type of lychee), xu). Particularly damaging to the blood is liver plums, apricots heat, which sets blood into restless motion. Pro- tracted heat can dry out and damage blood (xue). Nuts and seeds Sesame, sunflower seeds Beverages Red beet juice, sweet cherry juice, plum juice, red tea (e.g., rosehip tea, hibiscus), red grape juice, red wine in moderation 62 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics

Recommended for liver blood vacuity: are in a state of vacuity, qi supply of the whole body is lowered, which then affects quantity and Meat Chicken, duck, rabbit liver, hare quality of defense qi. Original essence (prenatal) qi liver, pork liver (liver preferably from the kidneys also plays a minor role in the pro- from organically raised or wild duction of defense qi. harvested animals) In summary, there are three energy systems Fish Oysters, shrimps, white fish, responsible for good defense: bass First and foremost, lung qi for governing and dis- tributing defense qi, stomach and spleen qi,aswell Fruit Apples, lychees, plums, grapes, as for reproduction, quantity, and quality of longans (similar to lychees) defense qi. Secondly, original qi from the essence Vegetables Thermally neutral and cooling, of liver yang. Thirdly, defense qi is a fleeting and green vegetables of the wood active yang energy. With its role in the opening phase: beans, broccoli, lamb’s and closing of pores, it is closely associated with lettuce (miner’s lettuce), lotus the secretion of body fluids (sweat). During the root, mangold chard (Swiss day, it circulates mostly in the surface yang chan- chard), spinach, sprouts, nels of greater yang (tai yang) lesser yang (shao tomatoes yang), and yang ming. At nighttime, it flows back Beverages Carrot juice, tomato juice into the bowels (zang organs) kidney, heart, lung, Grains Wheat, short-grain (glutinous) liver, and spleen. rice Symptoms Spices Watercress, marjoram, parsley General symptoms of qi or yang vacuity include: root pale complexion; feeling cold, shivering and aver- Nuts and seeds Sesame, sunflower seeds sion to cold; cool and cold extremities; easily Other Egg yolk physically and emotionally fatigued; general listlessness; spontaneous perspiration (lung qi vacuity). During the acute phase of a cold: chills, a feel- ¢ ing of coldness along one’s back along the greater Strengthening Defense Qi yang (tai yang) channel, joint pain; runny nose (Wei Qi) with liquid, clear secretion; sneezing, sensitive to cold, exhaustion (symptoms of a wind–cold attack Defense qi protects the body against disease. It cir- on the body). culates outside the body channels, mainly on the body’s surface. Defense qi’s most important func- Causes tion is to provide protection against external Factors that weaken lung qi, for example consti- pathogenic factors such as wind, cold, heat, and tutional weakness, extended periods of sitting dampness. At the same time, it warms and moist- in a slumped position (inhibits breathing and ens skin and muscles. Since it circulates below the thus leads to lung qi vacuity). Smoking, damage skin’s surface, defense qi is primarily governed by to lung qi by external pathogenic factors such as the lungs. Defense qi prevents pathogens from wind–cold or wind–heat, overwork, prolonged entering the body by regulating the opening and grief. closing of the skin’s pores. If lung energy is too Factors that weaken spleen and stomach. weak, pores do not close in time, allowing patho- Factors that weaken kidney yang and essence. gens to penetrate and cause disorders. Lung qi vacuity can result in lowered resistance, which in turn can lead to increased susceptibility to colds. While the lungs are responsible for the control and distribution of defense qi, the center burner also contributes to the production of defense qi, along with the stomach and spleen. If those two organs Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 63

Therapy as oranges and lemons should not be consumed for the duration of a cold. Strengthen body yang KI-7 + Moxa ST-36 GV-4 In Chinese herbal therapy, huang qi (astragalus) p !is an important remedy for supplementing Supplement lung qi defense qi. LU-9 + Moxa LU-7 p BL-13 BL-12 In the early stage of a cold, it is especially pro- !ductive to treat the symptoms (cold and chills) Supplement center burner with the strong yang energy of acrid–warm and ST-36 BL-20 acrid–hot flavors. This moves defense qi, opens the p pores for a short time to allow the expulsion of Supplement kidney yang pathogenic factors such as cold, dispels external KI-7 + Moxa BL-23 GV-4 pathogenic cold and wind, clears the body surface, p and strengthens yang and defense qi in the body.

r Recommended: w Nutritional Therapy Spices Especially fresh ginger! Also pepper, chili, acrid spiced a Avoid: tea (e.g., yogi tea) All foods that can weaken the yang of the body, for example foods with cool or cold thermal nature such as raw foods, salads, cold types of fruit, dairy Decoction of fresh ginger with green products, cold beverages. c (spring) onions: Simmer thumb-sized pieces of fresh During the acute phase of a common cold, ginger and green onions in 0.5 L (two cups) of !avoid all foods that increase the formation of water for about 10 minutes. Drink one to two cups mucus to protect the weakened lung qi from possi- of this liquid while warm. ble phlegm disorders and to avoid straining the spleen (bananas, dairy products, raw foods, and All foods with yang potential are recommended for very oily and fatty foods). strengthening defense qi. Sweet–warm or sweet– hot flavors are especially suitable for supplement- r Recommended: ing the center burner. Salty–hot and salty–warm Acrid–warm and acrid–hot flavors that strengthen flavors can strengthen the kidneys. The body is the metal phase to supplement and support especially susceptible to pathogenic energy at defense qi. night, since defense qi circulates deeper in the During the acute beginning of a cold, avoid the body during that time, leaving the surface unpro- sour flavor. In Chinese medicine, all citrus fruits tected. Too little sleep and too much nightly activ- are contraindicated for the duration of a cold. The ity increase susceptibility to externally caused dis- reason is the direction of movement of the sour orders. flavor. It moves inward and thus prevents the Nutritional therapy can individually strengthen already weakened defense qi from coming to the specific organs with certain foods. Aside from gen- surface and averting the penetrating pathogenic erally supplementing yang in the body via the factors. This results in the pores of the skin being three networks kidney, spleen/stomach, and lung, insufficiently closed, creating a relatively unob- supplementing lung qi is especially advisable for structed path for entry of pathogenic factors strengthening the body’s defenses. through the skin. The sour flavor makes it possible for pathogenic factors located on the body surface to move into deeper layers. Thus, TCM believes hot lemon juice and large servings of citrus fruits such 64 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics

¢ Supplementing Lung Qi caused by too much alcohol resulting in the creation of phlegm. w Nutritional Therapy Pathogenesis Spices Chili, curry, ginger, pepper Phlegm is created mainly by a disorder of the spleen/pancreas network. If the spleen is too Beverages Spiced teas, high-proof alcohol weak, qi flow slows and transformation and trans- Vegetables Cauliflower, leeks, horseradish, port of fluids becomes congested. As a result, onions, radish, watercress dampness accumulates. With chronic spleen qi or Nuts and seeds Almonds, almond butter yang vacuity, dampness collects over a longer period and creates concentrated accumulations of liquid. These eventually thicken into phlegm, Wind–cold disorder, which attacks the lung especially if subjected to the effects of heat. Since !when there is insufficient defense qi to protect spleen vacuity is always the primary cause of it, can develop into wind–heat, which is character- phlegm, therapy needs to focus on strengthening ized by fever; thirst, a preference for cold bever- this particular bowel (zang organ)! ages, headaches, sparse, dark urine, and physical Also contributing to the formation of phlegm are exhaustion. These signs of a wind–heat attack with the lungs and kidneys. The primary responsibility predominant heat symptoms require immediate of the lungs is to distribute and reduce fluids pro- adjustment of nutritional therapy. During this duced by the spleen. If weakened, the lungs are phase, acrid–hot and acrid–warm flavors, as well unable to perform this task, resulting in the forma- as foods with a hot thermal nature are contraindi- tion of dampness (swelling and edemas) and cated; cooling foods are recommended. Sour fla- phlegm in the nasal and sinus cavities (maxillary vors should be avoided to prevent the disorders sinus and frontal sinus). In the worst case, the from moving into deeper layers of the body. lungs themselves become obstructed (bronchitis, pneumonia). The kidneys, on the other hand, are responsible for ¢ the intake and discharge of liquids. If this function Dampness and Phlegm is impaired, liquids gather primarily in the lower Conditions burner and can lead to formation of edemas. As a rule, good kidney energy (kidney yang)isimpor- TCM views dampness and phlegm as important tant for warming and supporting the spleen. and common pathological factors in the treatment Other causes for the formation of phlegm, espe- of many disorders. cially heat phlegm (viscous, yellow phlegm) are external wind–heat disorders that damage the The motto of traditional Chinese physicians was: lung, for example acute bronchitis, sinusitis, and “If you’ve treated a disorder for a long period of time hay fever. Heat phlegm can also arise with liver qi without success, always remember phlegm.” stagnation, since heat is formed when the flow of qi is slowed and congested, and heat thickens flu- The Western observer associates phlegm disorders ids. mainly with a stuffed up nose and sinuses, sinus- Phlegm Differentiation itis frontalis, sinusitis maxillaris, and bronchial Substantial phlegm: Appears in the form of spu- congestion. In TCM, these are only partial aspects, tum with disorders of the respiratory system, for as the Chinese idea of phlegm disorders incorpo- example rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneu- rates a lot more than just material phlegm: Phlegm monia. can occur in all parts of the body. It slows down the Immaterial, “invisible” phlegm: Collects in the flow of qi and congests the channels, inducing channels of the body and obstructs qi flow. symptoms such as numbness, dull, “foggy” head- Immaterial phlegm can gather subcutaneously ache, sluggishness, and lack of concentration. and appear in the shape of skin nodules: A well-known and typical symptom of dampness Lipoma, adenoma, ganglia, or as a goiter. In its in the head is the so-called hangover headache hardened form, phlegm turns into gallstones or Practical Guidelines for Giving Nutritional Advice 65

kidney stones. Phlegm in the joints causes bone nebulous, confused mind, types of schizophre- deformation or chronic rheumatoid arthritis. nia, hallucinations, manic depression. Even “plum pit qi” (the sensation of a foreign Cold phlegm: White, viscous sputum; lack of body in the throat, mei he qi), a condition known appetite, feeling of oppression in chest and in TCM, is another form of phlegm (qi phlegm), epigastrium (abdominal wall above umbilicus triggered mainly by binding depression of liver [belly button]), infection of lungs. qi due to emotional causes. Its symptoms can Immaterial phlegm: Congestion of the channels, include difficulty swallowing, globus hystericus for example wind colic (apoplexy) and sensation (“lump in the throat”), or a feeling of oppression of numbness, mostly in elderly people. in the chest and diaphragm. Tongue: Puffy, wet tongue is typical, partly with Symptoms impression (spleen qi or spleen yang General phlegm disorders vacuity). Often oily, soft fur appears on Protracted illnesses that do not improve despite a normal, but pale tongue in the intensive treatment. retrolingual region. White fur: cold Painless lumps beneath the skin that are neither phlegm; yellow fur: heat phlegm. hot nor red and are freely movable (lipoma). Pulse: Typical slippery pulse, similar to pulse A general feeling of heaviness and numbness, of a pregnant woman. sluggishness, chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, especially dull headache and recurrent Therapy dizziness (Ménière disease). Frequent infections in children, with stuffy nose, Strengthen spleen muciferous and purulent bronchitis, and puru- Transform dampness and phlegm lent maxillary sinus and frontal sinus infections. Obesity. Strengthen lung and kidneys ST-40 CV-12 PC-6 ST-36 Tip: These symptoms can be increasingly found p SP-3 BL-20 BL-21 in children and young adults due to bad dietary habits (fast food, too many sweets, dairy prod- For chronic disorders ucts, and sugary soda pops). KI-3 KI-7 BL-23 p LU-9 BL-13 Differentiation of phlegm disorders by location of phlegm collection and symptoms Upper burner: Fatigue, lack of concentration, dull pressure in head, dizziness, ringing in the ears w Nutritional Therapy (tinnitus), sinusitis frontalis and sinusitis maxillaris, stuffy nose. a Avoid: Center burner: Bronchitis, pneumonia, bronci- Foods that produce copious phlegm, especially ectasis (inflammation of the lungs), cough with dairy products, bananas, very oily and fatty foods, copious white or yellow secretion, nausea. junk foods, too much of the sweet flavors, sugary Lower burner: Fluid deposits in the form of leg or beverages. An excess of yin foods (take into ankle edemas. account season and climate!): raw foods, salads, and cool/cold types of fruit, citrus fruits, and Differentiation by type of phlegm condition juices. Frozen foods and cooking or heating meals and symptoms in the microwave should also be avoided. Wind and phlegm: Feeling of dizziness, sensation of numbness in the extremities, aphasia (com- Caution: Meat and alcohol produce phlegm if con- munication disorder), wind stroke. sumed excessively. This applies especially to pork Heat phlegm: Yellow, viscous sputum, dry and wheat beer. mouth and lips, bronchitis, pneumonia, apathy, 66 General Applications of Chinese Dietetics r Recommended: Strengthen spleen Cold phlegm (whitish, clear, thin): All foods that strengthen the spleen to deter fur- Thermal nature/flavor: bitter–warm, acrid– ther production of dampness and phlegm (see warm “Spleen/Pancreas Qi Vacuity,” p. 69 and In moderation, fresh ginger, leeks, garlic, carda- “Spleen/Pancreas Yang Vacuity,” p. 69). mom, cherries. Millet, rice, and corn are especially beneficial for Phlegm obstructs qi flow in the meridians: supplementing and warming the spleen. Moderately acrid flavor can remove the conges- Soy beans and mung beans are recommended tions, for example strong spices such as pepper, for removing excess moisture from the body. garlic, ginger.

Flavors and foods that transform dampness and Tip: With recurrent phlegm conditions, drasti- phlegm: cally reduce meat, alcohol, dairy products, Heat phlegm (yellow, viscous): sweets, and fatty foods. Abstain from these Thermal nature/flavor: bitter–cool, salty–cool, altogether for three to six weeks. sometimes sweet–cool Belgian endive hearts, dandelion, soy milk, General recommendation for dampness and phlegm: mung beans, radish, pears, grapes, carp, salt, red Millet muesli or millet porridge with cinnamon marine algae (rhodophyta, also known as dulse), and raisins. and seaweed. For heat phlegm: Mung beans, mung bean decoction, soy milk, mixed juice of pears and lemons. For cold phlegm: Ginger tea. 67

Application of Chinese Dietetics B for Specific Conditions

Network: Spleen/Pancreas–Stomach Earth Phase

Bowel (Zang Organ): Viscera (Fu Organ): Spleen/Pancreas (Pi), SP Stomach (Wei) ST

Character Function “In charge of economy and nutrition” “Cooking vessel” for acquired qi The spleen is the material foundation of the body Most important viscera (Fu organ): Downbears and root of acquired qi. It is responsible for absorp- the flow of qi tion, distribution, transformation, and creation of Gathers food energy from food. Separates and extracts food Downbears Role in TCM: Loves dampness Governs transformation, transport, and process- Time of day: 7–9 a.m. ing of food and energy. Retains the blood in the blood vessels. Governs muscles and extremities. Opens at mouth and lips. Tasks and Functions Governs upbearing qi, keeps the organs in place. Houses the mind (zhi). of Spleen/Pancreas and Stomach Association with the five phases: Emotions: Brooding, worries, pensiveness The stomach and spleen/pancreas are important Climate factor: Dampness bowels and viscera (zang fu organs). As the pro- Season: Late summer, early fall duction site of acquired qi, yang, blood (xue), and Direction: Center body fluids (jin ye), they play a key role in TCM Color: Yellow therapy. The famous Chinese scholar Li Gao, during Flavor: Sweet the Song dynasty (AD 920–1280), emphasized the Time of day: 9–11 a.m. importance of the center burner by founding a special school for the “Strengthening of the Cen- ter,” which focused primarily on the treatment of the center burner. The following quote from the Ming Dynasty (AD 1368–1644) also speaks to the significance of the body’s “center”: 68 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

“The person who knows how to treat the center knows excessive consumption of cold beverages, raw how to balance all networks.” foods, salads, fruit and dairy products. Dampness, phlegm, or edemas in the body always requires Many doctors during that period were of the opin- treating the spleen as part of the therapy. ion that no disorder is really curable as long as the network of the center burner is impaired. They Symptoms perfected strengthening the “inner center” by Edemas, swollen face, sensation of heaviness in strengthening the stomach and spleen as a prereq- the limbs; heavy, dull head; apathy, depression uisite for all therapy. and lack of drive, obesity, sinus congestion “Zang Fu Governs Transformation and Transport” (maxillary and frontal sinuses), bronchial conges- The bowels and viscera (zang fu organs) tion, frequent colds (see also “Dampness and spleen/pancreas are largely responsible for trans- Phlegm Conditions,” p. 64) formation and transport of ingested food. Both or- Signs of healthy spleen qi include well-shaped red gans separate food into clear and turbid compo- lips, a closed mouth, and a good sense of taste. nents. The clear components of food essence are Spleen qi vacuity presents as pale and chapped lips transformed into gu qi (drum qi). Gu qi forms the and a continually open mouth. A strong preference basis for all acquired qi and for production of for sweet flavors also indicates spleen disharmony. blood. According to TCM, most of the qi in our body that can be regenerated is derived from gu qi acquired through stomach and spleen/pancreas. Production and Retention of Blood Lack of spleen qi results in energy deficiencies for the entire body. Healthy spleen qi produces sufficient blood and enables it to circulate through the body and stay in Key symptoms of spleen qi vacuity: its vessels. Spleen qi vacuity can cause more fre- Chronic fatigue, general immune deficiency, sus- quent bleeding, because the blood can not be ceptibility to infections, lack of concentration; retained in its vessels. Gu qi (drum qi) is extracted sloppy, shapeless stool. from food and then transported by the spleen to the heart. Blood is produced in the heart with help Therapy from the original qi of the kidneys. This makes the spleen one of the central organs for the formation Therapy principle: of qi and blood. Chronic spleen qi vacuity reduces Supplementing qi means also supplementing the the production of blood and results in liver blood spleen. Strengthening blood means also supple- vacuity. menting the spleen. Symptoms Night blindness; blurry, distorted vision; light- Governance of Body Fluids sensitive eyes; numb limbs; insomnia (shen is and Liquids anchored in the blood), menstrual disorders, frequent bruises (purpura, petechia, hematuria, Transformation and distribution of fluids requires excessive menstruation). sufficient spleen qi. Spleen vacuity obstructs the transport of fluids. This can cause accumulation of Governance of Muscles and Limbs dampness or phlegm, which can damage a weak- Gu qi extracted by the spleen from food is distrib- ened spleen even further. The spleen loves dryness uted to all tissues of the body. This nourishes and and shuns dampness. Dampness in the body can warms muscles and limbs and supports mobility. be caused by external wetness and dampness Weak, tired, or atrophied muscles indicate spleen (damp apartment, rainy fall days), but also by qi vacuity. dampness formed on the inside of the body caused by the wrong foods (too many yin foods). Key factors that can weaken the spleen and cause dampness and later formation of phlegm, are Network 69

Governance of Connective Tissue compensated with appropriate foods of the sweet flavor. The spleen holds the organs in place. Taught and Caution: Excessive consumption of refined elastic connective tissue is a sign of good spleen qi. sugar and denatured sweeteners (so-called sim- Loose connective tissue, cellulite, colon/rectal pro- ple sugars) causes extreme fluctuations of blood lapse (tuo gang), or uterus prolapse (zi gong xia glucose levels and depletes nutrients from the chui) indicate weak spleen qi. body. Concentrated “healthy” sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, molasses, or raw cane sugar are also extreme representatives of the Home of the Mind/Thought (Si) sweet flavor and should be consumed in moder- Clear thinking and good concentration indicate ation. strong spleen qi. Spleen vacuity can present as Spleen vacuity causes dampness and phlegm. If mental symptoms such as fuzzy thinking, prob- present, dietary measures to treat the spleen lems concentrating, and weak memory should be included in treatment.

Tip: Mental overexertion can weaken the spleen, which explains a craving for sweets during long periods of intensive studying or other Spleen Syndromes mental work. The sweet flavor is associated with the earth phase and, therefore, with the spleen. and Chinese Nutrition Sweet flavor has the strongest supplementing effect of all flavors. In moderation, eating sweet Spleen qi vacuity (pi qi xu) foods during times of intense mental activity Spleen yang vacuity (pi yang xu) (studying, writing) can be beneficial. ¢ Spleen Qi Vacuity (Pi Qi Xu) Honey, dates, poppy seed cake c or muffins, raisins. This is probably one of the most common syndromes found in clinical practice and leads patients into the doctor’s office with a variety of different symptoms. Special Diet for Spleen/ Western diagnosis: Pancreas–Stomach Network Gastroenteritis, indigestion, malabsorption syndrome, diarrhea, anemia, and inflammatory intestinal disor- This network is one of the most important sources ders. of acquired qi and responds very well to dietary supplementation and treatment. The mainstay of Symptoms every meal should be the sweet flavor of the earth Chronic fatigue, general exhaustion, susceptibility phase. All other flavors should only be used as sup- to infection, lack of appetite, weakness and frailty plements (see also “Strengthening the Inner Cen- of limbs, craving sweets; pale, pallid complexion; ter,” p. 42). soft, sloppy stools; sometimes diarrhea. Sweet foods such as grains, poultry, vegetables, certain types of fruit and dried fruit strengthen qi and moisten body fluids; they strengthen and ¢ Spleen Yang Vacuity (Pi Yang Xu) supplement our “center.” Excessive consumption of cold beverages, raw Spleen yang vacuity can result from protracted foods, fruit, and dairy products weaken the spleen qi vacuity or pronounced weakening of the spleen. spleen due to cold foods, irregular meal times, and Spleen qi vacuity caused by extended periods of irregular eating habits. mental activity and mental strain should be 70 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

Western diagnosis: Therapy Chronic gastroenteritis, anemia, chronic malabsorption, and chronic gastroenterological disorders. Supplement spleen qi SP-3 SP-2 BL-20 BL-21 Symptoms p ST-36 CV-12 Moxa Feet and hands are always cold; shivering; a sensation of cold in the abdomen; watery stool with undigested food particles; edemas, weakness, fatigue, chronic digestive problems. a Avoid: Cold or cooling yin foods; excess acrid flavors; Pathogenesis excessive consumption of sweets, especially Four factors can weaken the spleen: refined sugar. The most common ones are outlined below: Diet Mental strain Fruits Pineapples, oranges, bananas, Climate kiwis, watermelons, lemons Chronic illness Vegetables Cucumbers, raw foods, excessive consumption of salads (especially during the Diet: Probably the number one factor leading to a cold season), tomatoes weakening of spleen qi. Bad eating habits such as Beverages Cold or iced drinks; too much irregular meals, eating too late in the day (e.g., mineral water; energetically having the first warm meal of the day in the eve- cool fruit juices (e.g., orange ning), overeating, excessive consumption of cold juice); black tea, green tea, and raw foods (too many yin products), too much wheat beer, light beer dairy, too much frozen food, heating and cooking Dairy products Cottage cheese, farmer’s foods in the microwave, excessive consumption of cheese, cream cheese, milk, acrid spices, and too many yin foods during the sour milk products (e.g., cold season all contribute to a weakening of spleen yogurt, kefir) qi.

Mental strain:Excessive mental activity and mental strain produce spleen qi vacuity. This syndrome is compounded by food eaten too hastily due to mental strain combined with time pressure and stress.

Climate: Since the spleen despises wetness and dampness, it is sensitive to all dampness, especially from protracted exposure to wet weather or damp living environments, which weaken the spleen.

Chronic illnesses:Protracted illness progressively weakens and exhausts the spleen and eventually also weakens the kidney organ network. Network 71 r Recommended: Regular meals; at least one warm meal a day. Organ Network Spleen/ Sweet and warming foods such as: Pancreas–Stomach Flavor Sweet–hot, sweet–warm, sweet–neutral “Sea of food and liquids” Cooking method Neutral and warming

Meat Poultry, poultry broth, lamb, TCM views the stomach network as a very signifi- beef, beef stock, venison cant viscera (fu organ). Its tasks and functions are Fish Trout, salmon, tuna, shellfish closely related to those of the spleen. The most Fruit Sweet apples, apricots, dates, important function of the stomach is the absorp- jujube (Chinese dates), figs, tion of food and its distribution via the spleen. A sweet cherries, peaches, person’s overall state of health is very dependent plums, raisins, red grapes on the constitution of the stomach. Traditional Chinese doctors often measured the prognosis and Vegetables Fennel, cabbage, pumpkins, course of a disorder by looking at the energy con- carrots, sweet potatoes, onions dition of the stomach. A stomach supplied with gently sautéed until transparent sufficient qi promised a brief disorder and rapid recovery. If the stomach energy was weakened, the Beverages Fennel tea, spiced tea with prognosis was unfavorable, since the formation of cinnamon (yogi tea), mead, qi as well as the beneficial effect of herbs and acu- liqueurs, corn silk tea, licorice puncture require a healthy stomach. tea, red grape juice The task of the stomach is to separate and digest Grains Amaranth, oats, millet, food. TCM believes that the stomach separates polenta, short-grain food into clear and turbid components. Pure, clear (glutinous) rice, rice components are transported to the spleen. Impure, Nuts and seeds Peanuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, turbid components are eliminated via the intes- sesame, walnuts tines. Clear gu qi (drum qi) is distributed with the help of spleen and lungs. The stomach is seen as Sweeteners Maple syrup, barley malt, raw the origin of the acquired body fluids (jin ye) and honey, marzipan, raisins, raw cane sugar (e.g., Rapadura), thus of acquired yin, which is formed in the body molasses with the help of kidney yin. Dryness and heat are especially damaging to the Spices Aniseed, star anise, cayenne, stomach. Examples are foods with too much yang pepper, fennel, ginger, quality, such as acrid spices, coffee, high-proof cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, alcohol or warming cooking methods, such as cinnamon; also spices of the grilled or rapidly seared foods. Strong emotions fire phase such as coriander, oregano, rosemary, thyme such as anger, frustration, and resentment can also produce heat and attack the stomach. A healthy stomach requires a proper diet. The following rec- Comment: Spleen syndromes are a domain of Chi- ommendations should be considered: high food nese dietetics. Treatment duration is two to three quality; regular meals (three to five meals a day); a months; eat regularly. substantial, leisurely breakfast; at least one warm meal a day. Do not eat too much or too little, do not Millet porridge with raisins, eat too late in the evening, and do not eat when c cinnamon, nuts, and warming fruits under time pressure (no “wolfing down” of meals). for breakfast. Chew well, between 10 and 15 times per bite. Stomach problems may be closely related to spleen disharmony and have to be treated concur- rently. 72 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

General Causes of Stomach Unfavorable eating habits Dysfunction Avoid eating too quickly and hastily, skipping breakfast, or insufficient breakfast. The best time for building up stomach qi is in the morning The main causes of stomach dysfunction include between 7 and 9 a.m. external pathogenic cold, heat, dryness; excess of Avoid irregular mealtimes, discussions at meal- energetically too hot or too cold foods; and irregu- time, and business lunches or dinners with lar eating habits. While the spleen assures that exhausting conversations. clear gu qi (drum qi) reaches the upper burner, the Avoid eating too late in the evening or during the stomach’s task is to transport the turbid compo- night (weak period for the stomach). nents downward into the intestines. Impairment If the stomach is filled with too much food during of this function can lead to vomiting, which TCM its weak period, it is unable to transform and calls “qi vomiting” (qi ou). The stomach is unable to transport the food. This results in “food stagna- downbear qi, and as a result, it counterflows tion” in the stomach, accompanied by bloating and pathologically upward. disturbed sleep. Protracted weakening of stomach qi weakens stomach yin. Obesity is a common con- Example sequence of this condition. A good example for excess “external pathogenic Frequently changing diets, following unbalanced cold” is what often happens to children who spend nutritional advice, and fasting lead first to stomach their summer eating ice cream, drinking cold qi vacuity, then to spleen qi vacuity, and may sodas, and staying in a cold swimming pool for reduce the overall qi and yang of the body. During longer periods, or running around in wet swim- times of stress, it is especially important to con- suits. This can cool down and block the sensitive centrate on a balanced and regular diet. stomach qi of children in particular, resulting in stomach pain and lack of appetite. If this cold Emotional factors penetrates the body more deeply, it can cause Emotional stress factors, especially anger and stomach yang vacuity with symptoms like nausea, worry, have a distinct adverse impact on stomach vomiting, and diarrhea. function. A Chinese saying advises not eating immediately after an argument, so that the qi has Tip: Ginger or spiced tea, fennel tea time to calm down first. Sudden food cravings and eating out of frustration can be symptoms of Acupuncture or, for children, acupressure; moxa if unbalanced stomach qi. Strong (or suppressed) applicable. emotions can give rise to depressed qi, which then transforms into fire (Wiseman) and can cause sud- Strengthen stomach qi and spleen qi den cravings. Qi stagnation caused by suppressed PC-6! ST-36 CV-12 or intense emotions can also block the flow of qi in p stomach, spleen, and even lungs. The resulting food stagnation prevents food from being trans-

Foods that weaken stomach function Cold foods Cool stomach and spleen Raw foods, salad, ice cream, fruit, cold drinks Hot foods Damage stomach, create stomach heat Acrid spices such as pepper, curry, garlic, or ginger Yang foods Damage stomach, create stomach heat Lamb, alcoholic beverages Sugar and sweets Create dampness and phlegm, which weaken the spleen and damage stomach due to heat Fatty foods Create dampness and phlegm Network 73 formed properly. As a result, the body is not sup- Causes plied with sufficient qi. Frequently, food passes Diet: The most common cause of stomach qi through the digestive tract and is eliminated only vacuity is insufficient and inappropri- partially digested (wangubuhua, or nontrans- ate diet: Eating irregularly, eating too formation of food), and little use is made of the much or too little, fatty food; one- potential food energy (spleen vacuity with food sided, unbalanced diets. damage, or pi xu jia shi). As a result, stomach and qi General: Chronic illnesses are not supplied with sufficient acquired qi and weakened in case of protracted emotional obstruc- Therapy tion. Other factors involving the stomach are physical and mental exhaustion, congenital weakness, Supplement stomach qi and spleen qi and even the wrong treatment strategies or medi- ST-36 CV-12 BL-21 cines. p SP-2 BL-20 Moxa

r Recommended: Stomach Syndromes and Chinese Nutrition Thermal Nature Warm, neutral Flavor Sweet–warm, sweet–neutral Stomach qi vacuity (wei qi xu) Cooking Method Warming Stomach yin vacuity (wei yin xu) Stomach qi vacuity with cold (wei qi xu han) See also “Spleen Qi Vacuity,” page 69 and “Spleen Food stagnation in the stomach Yang Vacuity,” page 69. (shi zhi wei wan [guang]) Stomach heat (wei re) Stomach qi vacuity is always treated the same as spleen qi or spleen yang vacuity in nutritional therapy. Dietary measures should keep the stom- ¢ Stomach Qi Vacuity (Wei Qi Xu) ach sufficiently damp. This might require incorpo- rating more neutral or gently cooling foods into This syndrome is very similar to spleen qi vacuity. the diet. Since the stomach, unlike the spleen, The prime time of activity for the stomach is in the loves dampness and hates dryness, fewer hot and morning between 7 and 9 a.m. A major share of dry foods should be used for stomach qi vacuity our food for the day should be eaten during that than for spleen yang vacuity. Besides dietary mea- time to enable us to produce the energy needed for sures, good eating habits and proper diet are the day. If stomach qi is vacuous, spleen qi is important steps toward long-term stabilization of depleted as well, resulting in symptoms like lack of the stomach. appetite, fatigue, and general weakness. Comment/Prognosis Western diagnosis: A well-functioning stomach and a “strong” spleen Lack of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite in are key ingredients in the overall formation and children, weakness during recovery, rectal prolapse (tuo preservation of qi in the body. Developing good gang). eating habits is as important as choosing the right foods. Both should be maintained long term. Symptoms Within days or weeks, the patient will feel a Morning fatigue, lack of appetite (especially in noticeable difference. Dietary measures are simple children), upper abdominal complaints, and ways to permanently correct dysfunctions that sloppy stool. have persisted for years, such as feelings of pres- Tongue: Pale, floppy, sometimes enlarged sure in the epigastric region, nausea, and lack of Pulse: Vacuous appetite. Adopting a lifestyle that is supportive to spleen, stomach, and center burner is advisable for 74 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions maintaining good energy, a strong immune and settle on the tongue as a whitish coating (fog). system, and lasting vitality. These physiological signs of a healthy stomach are missing with yin vacuity, since no fluids are available to be vaporized. ¢ Stomach Yin Vacuity (Wei Yin Xu) Therapy Stomach yin vacuity is a commonly found syndrome caused mostly by poor dietary habits, but Nourish stomach yin also by chronic heat disorders of the stomach. SP-3 SP-6 KI-3 Stomach yin vacuity frequently results from long- p standing damaging factors. Replenish body fluids ST-36 CV-12 Western diagnosis: p Chronic gastritis, gastric insufficiency, chronic nausea and vomiting, gastric and duodenal ulcers. a Avoid:

Symptoms Thermal nature Warm, hot foods Lack of appetite, lethargy, afternoon fever or heat Flavor Bitter–hot, bitter–warm, sensation, constipation (dry, hard stools), dry acrid–hot, acrid–warm mouth, thirst without the desire to drink, drinking in small portions, bloating after eating, minimal to Beverages High-proof alcohol, coffee, moderate pains in the solar plexus (epigastrium), red wine, black tea bleeding gums. Spices Acrid spices Tongue: Red, dry, clean (without fur); no fur in Other Grilled, broiled, or barbecued center foods Pulse: Thin, rapid

Causes Recommended: Diet: The main causes of stomach yin vacuity r are unfavorable dietary and eating hab- Thermal nature Mostly neutral and cooling its, such as late evening meals; rushed, foods that have a refreshing hectic meals; starting work right after effect and replenish fluids; eating; chronic heat disorders of the possibly slightly warming foods stomach and chronic stomach qi vacu- in moderation ity. General: Chronic illnesses, syndromes that Cooking method Cooling, fluid-forming cooking methods expose spleen to protracted heat and dampness. Flavor Sweet–neutral, sweet–cool, Aging leads to a physiological stomach yin vacuity. sweet–cold Meat Poultry and beef in the form of Pathogenesis soups or stews, pork, rabbit, The stomach loves dampness and is regarded as a goose source of yin. When the stomach is weakened, dry- Fruit Apples, pears, bananas, tanger- ness forms in the body (“hot” foods, coffee, acrid ines, honeydew melons spiced tea). A diagnostic indicator of stomach yin vacuity is a red tongue without tongue fur, espe- Vegetables Cauliflower, napa (Chinese) cially in the center of the tongue, which represents cabbage cucumbers, water- the stomach area. This is caused by a lack of damp- cress, raw foods, salads, ness. The stomach functions properly when it is celeriac (celery root), steamed tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, heated by the lower burner. This vaporizes stom- potatoes ach liquids, which then rise into the upper burner Network 75

Beverages Pear juice, bread drink (a lacto- ages, but also by external application of heat and fermented beverage made massages, since these supply the body with yang. from grain), rosehip tea, corn silk tea, mallow tea (hibiscus Western diagnosis: palustris or swamp rose-mal- Lack of appetite, recurrent nausea and vomiting, chronic low), milk, soy milk, red grape diarrhea, uncomfortable feeling or sensation of coldness juice, wheat beer in the solar plexus (epigastrium). Grains Spelt, millet, rice, short-grain (glutinous) rice, wheat Symptoms Other Milk products, butter, egg, Uncomfortable feeling of pressure in the solar cheese, cream plexus (epigastrium) that is generally improved by heat (hot-water bottle) or pressure. Discomfort often worsens after bowel movement. Symptoms In dietary therapy, vegetable casseroles baked improve with eating. Lack of appetite, dislike of !in the oven are especially beneficial for replen- cold beverages, preference for warm beverages ishing body fluids in case of stomach syndromes. and warm foods, vomiting of clear fluid, no thirst, sloppy stools, and cold extremities with a sensa- Comment/Prognosis tion of heaviness. Stomach yin vacuity calls first and foremost for a change in dietary habits and the right food choices. Causes These two therapy approaches will produce signif- Diet: Cold foods; chronic excess of salads, icant improvement after just a few weeks or raw foods, fruit, ice-cold beverages, ice months. Patients will subjectively experience a cream, etc. distinct improvement of stomach disorders and a General: External pathogenic cold (wet swim- general increase in strength and vitality. suit); can also be caused by invasive Appropriate lifestyle and diet can eliminate stom- abdominal surgery. ach disorders permanently. Restoring stomach function often resolves other disorders brought on Therapy by a deficiency of liquids and body fluids. Dietary therapy is especially well suited for alleviating Warm stomach and spleen symptoms in women with gynecological disorders CV-12 CV-6 ST-36 Moxa rooted in blood vacuity. Elderly people often find a p distinct improvement of long-lasting constipation Supplement kidney problems. p KI-3 KI-7 BL-23 Moxa

¢ Stomach Qi Vacuity with Cold a Avoid: (Wei Qi Xu Han) Thermal nature Cooling, especially cold foods This syndrome can appear in combination with Cooking method Cooling spleen yang vacuity. Kidney qi can be impacted or damaged as well. This condition is generally Flavor No special recommendations caused by diets containing an excess of yin products. Stomach qi vacuity with cold and spleen yang vacuity are closely connected. Symptoms include cold extremities, sloppy stools, and vomiting of clear fluids. Coldness and emptiness in the stomach can be improved by warm meals and bever- 76 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions r Recommended: This repletion syndrome can appear in the form of cold or heat. To differentiate the two, look at Thermal nature Warm, hot foods tongue fur: white = cold, yellow = heat. Cooking method Warming Causes Flavor Sweet–hot, Diet: Common causes are overeating, hasty sweet–warm, or hurried meals, and eating while bitter–warm, bitter–hot under psychological or emotional Foods All foods that strain. strengthen the center burner (see “Spleen Qi Therapy Vacuity,” p. 69 and “Spleen Yang Vacuity,” Remove food stagnation p. 69) p ST-36 LR-3 SP-4 ! Downbear (jiang) stomach qi Drink one cup of ginger tea every morning. p CV-10 PC-6 CV-12 Comment/Prognosis Consistent implementation of dietary recommendations can bring about distinct improvements Healthy eating habits: Allowing enough with this syndrome within a few days or weeks. mtime, chewing carefully, and eating an appro- When combined with acupuncture or moxi- priate amount (not too much, not too little). bustion, this syndrome can be easily treated. Con- tinued adoption of dietary recommendations can Digestive liqueurs: Aniseed, caraway seeds, stabilize the stomach in the long term. herbal liqueurs Also: Barley, carrots, coriander, fennel, ginger, millet, vinegar, white cabbage ¢ Food Stagnating in the Stomach (Shi Zhi Wei Wan) ¢ Stomach Fire (Wei Re)

This syndrome often appears with excessive intake This repletion heat syndrome dries out body flu- of food at the wrong time, especially big dinners ids, causing intense thirst, constipation, and a dry and “holiday feasts.” tongue. Subsequent “upbearing” heat in the stomach channel causes swollen and bleeding gums. Western diagnosis: The repletion condition also prevents stomach qi Indigestion, insomnia, abdominal distention from downbearing, resulting in esophageal (sour) (meteorism), nausea, headaches. reflux. In extreme cases, stomach fire combined with phlegm can impair the spirit (shen). This can Symptoms lead to disturbed sleep and psychological symp- Stomach qi is obstructed in its downbearing func- toms. Protracted exposure to extreme heat (fire) tion by food retention. This causes a pathological can damage stomach substance (yin damage, frus- upbearing of stomach qi with the following symp- tration). toms: Bloating in the solar plexus (epigastrium) alleviated by vomiting; nausea, vomiting, burping, Western diagnosis: sour reflux, bad breath, lack of appetite. Gastritis, ventricular and duodenal ulcers, stomatitis, Protracted stomach qi vacuity with cold can also nosebleeds. obstruct heart qi. This leads to restlessness at night and disturbed sleep. Network 77

Symptoms r Recommended: Burning and pain in solar plexus (epigastrium), thirst, craving cold beverages, excessive appetite, Thermal nature Cool, cold foods food cravings, bleeding gums, sour reflux, vomit- Flavor Sweet–cold, sweet–cool, ing after eating, nausea, bad breath, constipation. bitter–cold, bitter–cool, Tongue: Reddish, enlarged; yellow, sometimes sour–cold, sour–cool dry tongue fur. For heat phlegm: Thick, Cooking method Cooling yellow, sticky tongue fur. Pulse: Replete, deep, rapid. For heat phlegm: For stomach fire: Slippery, rapid, replete. Fruit Pears, rhubarb, watermelons, Causes bananas, honeydew melons, Diet: Excess hot foods and warming cooking kiwis methods, especially acrid spices or cof- Vegetables Cucumber, mung beans, fee; smoking. For heat phlegm:Too sprouts, tomatoes, peas, much hot and fatty food, for example spinach, bamboo sprouts, deep-fried foods. Chinese (napa) cabbage General: Too many heated emotions, anger, too Beverages Chamomile tea, green tea, much brooding. black tea, wheat beer Dairy products Yogurt Therapy Other Tofu, wheat, dandelion Cool and remove stomach heat ST-44 ST-45 CV-12 p Since chamomile tea is cooling, it is recom- Downbear stomach qi !mended only for stomach fire and is contraindi- p PC-6 CV-10 CV-13 cated for cold stomach syndromes. For phlegm symptoms: !Avoid muciferous foods a Avoid: Comment/Prognosis Thermal nature Hot and warm foods This syndrome can be successfully treated in a few Cooking method Warming days or weeks by changing eating habits and making the right food choices. It responds very well to Flavor Bitter–hot, bitter–warm, a combination of dietary measures and acupunc- acrid–hot, acrid–warm, ture. Treatment needs to address the emotional sweet–hot, sweet–warm factors leading to stomach heat. Heated discus- Meat Lamb sions, arguments, and relationship or work prob- Beverages High-proof alcohol, coffee, red lems can be even more detrimental than the wine effects of coffee or other foods with yang characteristics. In TCM, emotional strain and burdens Spices Chili, curry, ginger, garlic, play a far bigger role than they do in Western med- pepper icine! Other Smoked, fatty foods, strongly seasoned foods 78 Organ Network: Lung–Large Intestine Metal Phase

Bowel (Zang Organ): Organ Network Lung (Fei), LU Lung–Large Intestine Character “In charge of foreign affairs and defense” Governs qi and breathing Controls the body’s surface, is in direct contact One of the most important functions of the lungs is with the environment, and is responsible for to inhale air and transform it into clear, ancestral immune defense and most secretions. (or gathering) qi (zong qi), which it then combines with guqi(drum qi from food) from the spleen. Role in TCM: These are then combined with the essential qi Dominates qi and governs breathing (jing) into true qi (zheng qi). True qi is circulated in Governs diffusion and downbearing the meridians by the lungs to fill the body and Governs regulation of waterways nourish the organs. The lungs, together with the Houses the corporeal soul (po) spleen, carry a major responsibility for the Governs tissues, including skin and sweat acquired qi in the body. True qi divides into two glands, pores, and body hair separate forms: channel qi (yin qi) and defense qi Opens at the nose (wei qi). Defense qi protects against external pathogenic attacks such as cold or heat and is pro- Association with the five phases: duced mainly from lung qi. TCM believes that suf- Emotion: Sadness ficient, freely coursing lung qi is the foundation of Climate factor: Dryness a good defense (immune system). Season: Fall Direction: West Governs regulation of waterways, diffusion, and Color: White, silver downbearing Flavor: Acrid Another important lung function is diffusion and Time of day: 3–5 a.m. downbearing of qi and governance of body fluids. Conveyance disorders in qi distribution lead to cough, pressure, and a restricted feeling in the thorax. Body fluids are connected with stomach function. The stomach gathers fluids and the lung net- Viscera (Fu Organ): work diffuses them throughout the body to keep Large Intestine (Da Chang) the body moistened.

Function Symptoms Governs transformation and conveyance of waste: Water retention, edemas, eyelid edemas, but also receives the turbid and firm parts passed down dryness. from the small intestine and forms it into stool before discharging it from the body. Downbearing Governs skin lung qi supports the large intestine in defecating. Skin dryness and blemishes, often caused by internal heat, damp heat, and a deficiency of body fluids, are very receptive to nutritional therapy. Organ Network 79

against external bioclimatic factors, which cannot Nutrition and Organ damage the lung network as long as defense qi is Network strong enough. Lung qi vacuity is a syndrome commonly seen in practice. Nutritional therapy is well suited for prevention of lung disorders—by supplementing lung qi—and for Symptoms treatment of acute and chronic lung network dis- Shortness of breath, quiet voice, pale complexion, orders. shivering, susceptibility to infections; recurring respiratory infections like colds, flu, tonsillitis, Supplementing lung qi for overall good qi sup- bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia; moderate exhaus- ply. tion. Strengthening defense qi. During the acute phase of colds, but also as Causes adjunct therapy during chronic illnesses, for General: Lung qi vacuity can be caused by exter- example asthma, in combination with other nal bioclimatic factors, especially therapies, such as acupuncture and healing wind– cold and wind–heat, or by con- herbs. genital constitutional weakness. Smok- For dry skin and mucous membranes by making ing is detrimental to lung qi,asispro- use of cool and moistening foods. longed or unresolved grief. Sitting For phlegm disorders of the respiratory system, hunched over with tense shoulders for such as bronchitis, sinusitis, by strengthening extended periods of time is just as det- the lung and spleen networks. Especially impor- rimental to lung qi, because it blocks tant for chronic phlegm conditions to prevent the flow of the lung’s main pathway. continued production of phlegm, but also to Taking frequent breaks from sitting for transform phlegm. stretching or regular qi gong exercises Sadness as an emotional factor for lung disor- that stimulate lung qi flow are benefi- ders can be treated in nutritional therapy with cial. Such exercises also invigorate a acrid flavors and their dispersing effect. tired mind. Diet: Too many cold or cool food items or yin products.

Lung Syndromes and Therapy Chinese Nutrition Supplement lung qi LU-9 BL-13 BL-12 CV-6 Lung qi vacuity (fei qi xu) p Phlegm–damp obstructing the lung Stimulate qi diffusion (tan shi zu fei) LU-7 Lung yin vacuity (fei yin xu) p

¢ Lung Qi Vacuity (Fei Qi Xu) In the engendering cycle (sheng cycle), the lung is the child of the earth phases spleen and stomach. In Chinese medicine, the lungs are known as the Treating lung disharmony, therefore, is facilitated “delicate” organ. The lungs are the only yin organ by feeding the child through supplementation of with an external orifice via the respiratory tract spleen and stomach. and a direct connection with bioclimatic factors. The lungs’ susceptibility to external bioclimatic factors like wind–cold and wind–heat depends on the strength of defense qi, which is governed and diffused by the lungs. Defense qi is a barrier 80 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions r Recommended: These fluids accumulate, are transformed into All foods that supplement the center burner; foods phlegm, and in the sequence of the engendering used for treatment of lung qi vacuity: cycle (sheng cycle), are handed from the “mother phase” earth/spleen to the “child phase” Flavor Acrid–warm, possibly slightly metal/lung. Energetic spleen vacuity impairs the acrid–hot, as well as lung network in the engendering cycle. The sweet–warm for supplement- phlegm produced by the spleen is stored in the ing spleen and stomach lungs. In TCM, all respiratory disorders involving Fish Tuna, carp phlegm— from acute purulent bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, to acute or chronic frontal or maxillary Meat Duck, quail sinusitis—are part of the same syndrome category. Fruit Peaches, grapes Acute phlegm disorders are relatively easy to treat Vegetables Cauliflower, kohlrabi, carrots, with nutritional therapy. When the recommended olives, onions, mushrooms dietary measures are strictly and consistently followed, nutritional therapy can also successfully Grains Oats, millet, barley malt, rice treat recurrent and chronic congestion of the (roast lightly before preparing) respiratory tract. By comparison, acupuncture Spices Ginger, garlic, thyme alone is often insufficient therapy for treating Nuts and seeds Peanuts these conditions in practice.

Other High-proof alcohol Chinese pathophysiology differentiates between cold and warm phlegm syndromes. Colds that frequently occur during the cold fall !and winter months, such as flu and bronchitis, Cold phlegm is easy to cough up, of a whitish, can be prevented by timely strengthening of lung transparent color, usually of a thin consistency, qi with a warming diet focused on acrid–warm fla- and displays excess cold. vors and by supplementing the center burner. Hot phlegm (phlegm–heat or phlegm–fire) is Combined with sufficient physical activity or exer- more difficult to cough up, and depending on clini- cise in fresh air, this treatment strategy can suc- cal and pathogenic factors, is viscous, yellowish, or cessfully prevent recurring colds and the use of greenish, possibly even blood-colored and can antibiotics. smell bad or even rotten. This condition clearly displays excess heat. Ginger tea every morning; Each condition requires a different treatment c increase use of strong seasoning. strategy. Cold phlegm calls for warming treatment, for example supplementing acupuncture and warm- ¢ Phlegm–Damp Obstructing ing, yang-inducing foods or Chinese herbs. the Lung (Tan Shi Zu Fei) Hot phlegm calls for cooling, calming treatment with acupuncture, cooling Chinese herbs, and This syndrome encompasses several lung phlegm cooling foods. When treating phlegm–heat condi- syndromes: tions with cooling foods, make sure that the weak Phlegm–damp obstructing the lung (tan shi zu fei), spleen qi or the lungs are not further weakened phlegm–heat coating the lung (tanrezufei, and (see “Dampness and Phlegm Conditions,” p. 64) phlegm–liquid coating the lung (tan shui zu fei). In practice, phlegm, phlegm–cold or phlegm–heat Cough with sputum, dyspnea, asthma, chest coating the lung is often a cold that has turned into tightness, headaches. bronchitis. Factors promoting the production and accumulation of phlegm include defense qi and Causes lung qi vacuity, as well as a weakened spleen that Lung obstructions involve the factors leading to insufficiently transforms and transports fluids. lung qi vacuity discussed earlier (see “Lung Qi Organ Network 81

Vacuity,” p. 79 and “Defense Qi Vacuity,” p. 62), as Foods for treating phlegm–heat conditions well as factors that can weaken the spleen and Vegetables Watercress, white radish, stomach. celeriac (celery root)

Therapy Beverages Peppermint tea, lemon Spices Less acrid Loosen phlegm Other Soy beans, red seaweed p ST-40 LU-5 CV-22 (dulse), grapefruit, tangerines Strengthen spleen and lungs SP-3 BL-20 BL-21 ST-36 Lemon juice, green tea, p LU-9 BL-13 LU-7 c pear juice. a Avoid: Foods that promote the formation of fluids and Foods for treating cold phlegm conditions phlegm, such as dairy products, fatty, overly sweet or acrid foods, alcohol, bananas, and junk food. Beverages Bitter liqueurs (warm the body and remove dampness) r Recommended: Spices Garlic, ginger, pepper, cinnamon, thyme, cardamom Foods that supplement spleen qi and lung qi. Other Cherries, millet Flavor Sweet–neutral, sweet–warm (spleen qi), bitter–cool (drying), acrid–warm (lung qi) Ginger tea Fruit Pears, star fruit, tangerines c Vegetables Radish, asparagus, water chestnuts, lotus root, dandelion, Chinese (napa) cabbage Grains Millet, rice, rye, buckwheat Foods for treating lung heat conditions Spices Fresh ginger, marjoram, Fruit Apples, pears pepper, cardamom Vegetables Savoy cabbage, asparagus, Nuts and seeds Apricot seeds, almonds, radish, carrots, dandelion, walnuts tomatoes, mushrooms Other Green tea, peppermint tea, mung beans, soy milk, salt, seaweed 82 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

¢ Lung Yin Vacuity (Fei Yin Xu) Therapy

Prolonged exposure to external or internal heat Enrich lung yin attacks the body, dries up fluids, and damages lung LU-9 BL-13 KI-6 yin. This syndrome can also result from chronic ill- p ness of other organs and long-term phlegm–heat Remove heat syndrome. p LU-5 LU-6 LU-10 Western diagnosis: Replenish body fluids Chronic pharyngitis, bronchiectasis, chronic febrile KI-6 CV-12 SP-6 bronchitis, chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, chronic cough, p tuberculosis.

a Avoid: Symptoms All warming foods and cooking methods that dry Dehydration of body fluids resulting in general out body fluids even further and can produce heat dryness: Dry cough, dry mouth, and throat, in the body: acrid–hot, acrid–warm, bitter–hot, hoarseness, sore throat, night sweat; subfebrile and bitter–warm flavors; foods with hot thermal (below normal) body temperature, especially in nature. the afternoon; sleep disturbances with hot flashes. Five hot areas on the feet, hands, and behind the r Recommended: sternum; hoarse voice; pale face with rosy cheeks; Slightly cooling, neutral foods rosy cheeks in the afternoon or evening. Tongue: Red, dry, chapped; little tongue fur. The Foods that moisten more red and chapped the tongue, the Cooking method Cooling more serious the condition. Pulse: Rapid, floating pulse, in which the yang Flavor Sweet, sweet–neutral, appears on the surface sweet–cool Flavor Banana (with honey), pear, Causes tangerine, honeydew melon General: Dryness; dehydration caused, for Beverages Poultry broth, almond milk, example by yang heat during hyperac- cow’s milk tivity; exhaustion of yin; smoking. Diet: Too many warm–bitter foods, for Nuts and seeds Peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, sesame example too much coffee; too many acrid–hot or acrid–warm foods that Other Marzipan, cottage cheese, dry out body fluids; too much high- farmer’s cheese, butter, honey proof alcohol. Can also result from stomach yin vacuity, often caused by irregular meals, eating late in the eve- Milk with honey ning, or hurried meals. c

Elderly patients often suffer from lung yin !vacuity due to insufficient body fluids. Grandma’s “milk with honey remedy” is still a !suitable treatment for lung yin vacuity, especially for dry cough. Back in her days, tuberculosis—a lung yin vacuity syndrome—was common. However, this remedy is contraindicated for all phlegm conditions such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and colds, and is frequently used incorrectly. 83 Organ Network: Kidney–Bladder Water Phase

Bowel (Zang Organ): Organ Network Kidney (Shen), KI Kidney–Bladder Character “The Vice President” “The kidney is the root of all yang and all yin “The lung is the governor of qi and the kidney is in the body” the root of qi” (Wiseman). The kidneys are the This classic quote accurately describes the overall foundation of life, keeper of the original essence significance of the kidney network. Long-lasting (jing), foundation of yin and yang, and seat of “fire imbalance and chronic illnesses weaken the kid- and water” in the body. ney, which means it has to be strengthened as part of any therapy for chronic illness. Role in TCM: Kidney stores essence and governs birth, devel- Kidney stores essence, governs birth, opment, reproduction, and aging (shen cang development, reproduction, and aging jing) Kidney yin serves as a material basis for the devel- Kidney governs water (shen zhu shui) opment and maturation of egg cells and sperm. Kidney governs qi absorption (shen zhu na qi) Kidney yang provides the energy for sexual activ- Kidney stores mind/memory—governs will- ity. Kidney vacuity leads to a multitude of disor- power (shen cang zhi) ders such as impotence, weak libido, infertility, problems during pregnancy, and other sexual and Association with the five phases urological dysfunctions. Emotion: Fear Congenital jing (essence) is stored in the kidney Climate factor: Cold organ network. This jing can be preserved, but not Season: Winter replenished. Acquired jing, which supplements Direction: North congenital jing, is obtained through the daily Color: Blue, black intake of food. Flavor: Salty Time of day: 5–7 p.m. Kidney governs water The kidney governs all production and movement of body fluids and via its connection with the blad- Viscera (Fu Organ): der, is also responsible for the discharge of fluids. Excessive dryness, for example due to heat, weak- Bladder (Pang Guang) ens body fluids and kidney yin. The salty flavor associated with the kidney network is able to Function replenish fluids due to its hygroscopic properties. Receives the “turbid” fluids from small intestine and kidneys and stores and discharges them in the Kidney rules ming men, the “fire of life” form of urine. (ming men zhi huo) Keeps the lower waterways clear and open. The Cold—external cold (cold weather) as well as a diet Sue Wen states in Elementary Questions: “The that is energetically too cold—reduces and blocks bladder holds the office of river island, stores fluid, kidney yang and causes lasting obstruction of all and by (kidney) qi transformation, lets it out.” bodily functions. As the “fire of life” (ming men zhi Time of day: 3–5 p.m. huo), kidney yang warms the yang of the entire 84 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions body. “Ming men,” the life gate (GV-4), is also of the network. Qi vacuity is a relatively mild disor- sometimes called the “gate of fire,” the root of fire der of the network. It can develop into a more of all internal organs. The cold symptoms of serious disorder with yang vacuity symptoms if it chronic yang vacuity can be treated very effec- persists and the damage increases. More severe tively with nutritional therapy along with damage can injure the organ system structure and moxibustion, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs. present with the same symptoms as yin vacuity. Progression of disorders is not always so clear-cut Nutrition and Organ Network and may involve gradual transitions and the As a rule, only vacuity patterns develop in the kid- involvement of other networks. ney network. A good diet protects jing and kidney The most common cause weakening the energy qi. For the kidney network, the focus should be on exchange of the kidneys are the strong demands preventive dietary measures that support kidney made on the body by our “civilized world.” Both yang and kidney yin long term to keep them from mental and physical overexertion often lead first being exhausted. to kidney qi vacuity, then to kidney yang vacuity, Kidney yang is closely connected to both spleen and with prolonged overexertion and stress, yang and lung qi. Dietary measures should supple- finally to kidney yin vacuity. Too much work under ment all three networks: kidney, spleen, and lung. time pressure, a hasty, unbalanced and insufficient diet, and not enough time for rest and relaxation can weaken kidney energy within weeks or months. If such constant exhaustion is not balanced or taken care of, serious disorders can Kidney Syndromes and develop in the course of a few years. Chinese Nutrition Other negative factors are excessive sexual activity and emotional factors such as fear or a sudden Disharmony in the kidney network presents as mental shock. All of these can undermine kidney vacuity or emptiness. The most important syn- energy. Chronic illness, independent of the organ dromes for nutritional therapy are: network involved, always weakens kidney energy eventually, since the kidney is the root of all yin Kidney qi vacuity (shen qi xu) and yang in the body. Kidney energy decreases Kidney yang vacuity (shen yang xu) physiologically with age. This aging process accel- Kidney yin vacuity (shen yin xu) erates when kidney energy is carelessly wasted. TCM believes that the quality of kidney energy for Kidney vacuity involves general physical weak- a new life is determined by the health of the par- ness, as well as increased susceptibility to external ents at the time of conception. If the parents have and internal illnesses. Often appearing in connec- weak kidney energy when they conceive, their tion with kidney vacuity are sexual dysfunction, baby will inherit a constitutional weakness. urological conditions, and disorders of the lower back and bones. Foods that strengthen the kidney network Fish Smoked fish, oysters, lobster, Western diagnosis: salmon, shrimp, tuna General weakness, sensitivity to cold, loss of strength, Meat Game: venison, doves, incontinence, enuresis (bedwetting), impotence, prema- wild pig ture ejaculation, knee pain, chronic cystitis (urinary tract infections), nephritis, frigidity, depression, anxiety, Vegetables Lentils chronic degenerative arthropathy, rheumatoid arthritis. Grains Oats, millet, wheat, black soy beans Pathogenesis Nuts and seeds Walnuts, black sesame Regardless of the type of kidney disorder, the factors weakening kidney energy are similar. They differ only in severity and duration, which is determined by the gravity of the disorder and pathology Organ Network 85

¢ Kidney Qi Vacuity (Shen Qi Xu) Symptoms General sensitivity to cold, weakness, lethargy, This condition is a mild precursor of kidney yang very susceptible to illnesses; sensation of cold and vacuity. weakness in lower back as well as in knees, cou- pled with lower back and knee pain. Gloomy Symptoms mood, depression, withdrawal, fearfulness, fre- Fatigue, easily tired, lethargy, depression, gloomy quent urination with clear urine, nycturia (exces- mood, fears, feeling of weakness with pain in the sive urination at night), incontinence, loss of lumbar region, incontinence, enuresis (bedwett- libido, impotence, frigidity, amenorrhea (lack of ing), reduced libido, frigidity, premature ejacula- menstruation), fertility disorders, hearing loss, tion. dizziness, tinnitus, morning diarrhea, lack of appetite, soft stools. Therapy Therapy Supplement kidney qi KI-7 KI-3 GV-4 Strengthen kidneys p CV-4 + Moxa KI-7 GV-4 CV-4 p CV-6 BL-23 + Moxa Preserve jing Strengthen ming men (life gate) Kidney qi can be replenished using the same GV-4 + Moxa mfoods as for kidney yang vacuity. p

¢ The same dietary recommendations apply to Kidney Yang Vacuity mkidney qi vacuity and kidney yang vacuity. (Shen Yang Xu) a Avoid Kidney yang vacuity develops from kidney qi vacu- All thermally cool or cold foods, frozen foods, raw ity. foods, thermally cold fruit (e.g., citrus and tropical Kidney yang vacuity usually presents with cold fruit), salads, sour milk products, excessive con- symptoms. Since kidney yang is the root of all yang sumption of liquids (e.g., mineral water high in energies in our body, kidney yang vacuity causes sodium) and thermally cold beverages (e.g., orange extensive cold symptoms in the bowels and vis- juice). cera (zang fu organs), lethargy, and weakness. The following foods have a strong kidney-energy- Digestive disorders of stomach and spleen can weakening effect: Refined sugar and alcoholic result from insufficient warming (symptoms: lack beverages, especially high-proof alcohol. of appetite, sloppy stools). Weak kidney yang prevents sufficient warming of jing, which weakens energy.

Western diagnosis: Urological disorders such as chronic cystitis (urinary tract infection), nephritis, prostatitis, urethritis, sexual problems such as frigidity, impotence, and premature ejaculation; depression, anxiety, recurrent lumbago, sci- atica, degenerative arthropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, impaired hearing, tinnitus. 86 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions r Recommended: lowing thorough diagnosis, treatment should include acupuncture and moxibustion, nutritional Thermal nature Moderately hot, warm, neutral therapy, Chinese herbs, and movement therapy (qi foods gong, tai chi). Acupuncture treatments should be Cooking method Warming appropriately supplemented with nutritional therapy. Strengthening and warming foods for the Flavor Hot–salty, warm–salty, kidneys, prepared using appropriate cooking neutral–salty methods, accelerate treatment success. In con- Fish Oysters; all smoked fish, junction with supplementing kidney energy, especially salmon; mussels, nutritional therapy needs to also supplement and shrimp, tuna sustain the stomach and spleen. Serious disorders Meat Especially venison, lamb, such as kidney yang vacuity or kidney yin vacuity wild pig, dove, duck, pork might require Chinese herbal remedies. Depending on the seriousness of the condition, Vegetables Fennel, cabbage prepared with treatment may require weeks to months of consis- warming spices, leeks, radish, tent therapy. Profound disorders of the kidney net- root vegetables, onions work may even require treatment for a number of Fruit Cherries, grapes years. With correct diagnosis and therapy, good to Beverages Grain coffee, spiced tea, very good results can be achieved. The prognosis is yogi tea not so good for constitutional kidney qi vacuity, essence vacuity, or jing vacuity, perhaps caused by Grains Buckwheat, oats, millet, rice massive external damage such as shock or drugs. (roasted before cooking) These are difficult to treat and improvements or Spices Ginger, garlic, black pepper, modest success often take years to accomplish. cinnamon Nutritional therapy as well as medicinal herb ther- Legumes Adzuki beans, lentils, black soy apy can significantly strengthen kidney energy, as beans can a change of circumstances and lifestyle. Kidney yin vacuity, or general yin vacuity, however, do not Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, lotus seeds, especially roasted black respond well, if at all, to acupuncture. These condi- sesame, sunflower seeds, tions require nutritional and medicinal herb ther- roasted walnuts apy.

Master Soup ¢ Kidney Yin Vacuity (Shen Yin Xu) c with warming types of meat, vegetables, and seasonings. Kidney yin vacuity, as a deep disturbance of the kidney network, is associated with essence vacuity Thermally hot foods, especially hot seasoning, (jing vacuity), since essence is part of the kidney !should not be used excessively, since they can yin. dry out fluids and weaken yin. Eating two to three Kidney yin vacuity causes fluid deficiency. Efful- warm meals daily and strengthening the body gent yin vacuity fire (yin xu huo wang, or internally with kidney-warming foods is advisable, espe- developed heat) can form in the body, which fur- cially for kidney yang vacuity. Combining nutri- ther depletes yin fluids (symptoms include agita- tional therapy with foods that strengthen the cen- tion, redness of the cheeks, dry mouth, and sore ter burner is recommended. throat). One important symptom of yin vacuity with vacuity heat is night sweating, also known in Comment/Prognosis TCM as “thief sweating (yin xu dao han),” which TCM considers deficiency or vacuity conditions in causes loss of yin-nourishing essence. TCM the kidney network serious disorders requiring believes that all body fluids, for example blood or careful treatment. This includes addressing the sweat, are valuable nourishing substances that damaging lifestyle that led to the disorders. Fol- need to be preserved. Kidney yin vacuity can cause Organ Network 87 depression, lethargy, mental sluggishness, forget- a Avoid: fulness, and premature aging. Warming foods: Western diagnosis: Cooking method Warming Severe exhaustion, burnout syndrome, chronic consumptive disorders, spermatorrhea (frequent involun- Flavor Bitter–hot, bitter–warm, acrid–warm, acrid–hot tary emission of semen), constitutional weakness, and chronic lumbar spine problems. Beverages Coffee, red wine, too much black tea and green tea Pathogenesis Spices Acrid spices, salt All factors that cause kidney qi or kidney yang vacuity and persist over time eventually result in kidney yin vacuity. Disease progression is exacer- Also avoid strong mental and physical over- bated by chronic consumptive disorders, pro- exertion, lack of sleep, stress, and excessive sexual tracted fevers, excessive use of drugs and alcohol, activity. heavy blood loss, extreme stress, and chronic sleep deprivation. “Graveyard” shifts, night work r Recommended:

Symptoms Thermal nature Neutral, cooling foods that A typical symptom of yin vacuity, especially kidney moisten and produce fluids yin vacuity, is the above-mentioned night sweat, Cooking method Cooling often accompanied by the five hearts (wu yi), or hot areas: hot soles of the feet, hot palms of the Flavor Salty–neutral, salty–cool, sweet–neutral, sweet–cool hands, heat and burning behind the sternum. Additional symptoms are dry mouth, dry throat, Meat Pork, duck, dove thirst, back and bone pain, tinnitus, hearing loss, Fish Oysters, octopus, perch, carp dizziness, forgetfulness, impotence, infertility, premature ejaculation, deep and dark rims around Fruit Pears, refreshing fruit, grapes the eyes. Vegetables Refreshing vegetables, Tongue: Red, chapped, no tongue fur cabbage, asparagus, carrots Pulse: Vacuous, rapid, stringlike Grains Barley, rice, wheat

Therapy Nuts and seeds Black sesame, walnuts Other Butter, cream, sheep’s and Enrich kidney yin goat’s milk p KI-3 BL-23 KI-6 KI-7 KI-10 Preserve and support yin Comment/Prognosis CV-4 SP-6 With kidney yin vacuity, all heat factors that can p cause yang exuberance and prevent regeneration of kidney yin need to be strictly avoided. This includes heat from diet, stress, and chronic overexertion. Cooling and moistening foods that build up kidney yin and nourish the body are important for treatment. Therapy should encompass acupuncture, as well as nutrition and Chinese herbs. Kidney yin vacuity is a profound imbalance that requires several months of therapy to achieve improvements. Nutritional therapy with kidney essence vacuity (jing vacuity) can be supportive for kidney essence vacuity (jing vacuity) for months or 88 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions even years. The prognosis for treating jing vacuity, and an unbalanced diet, make this an increasingly however, is unfavorable. common condition.

The damaging effect of the bitter–warm drug Western diagnosis: !coffee is often underestimated. Large amounts Deeply exhausted patients, burnout syndrome, chronic of coffee (six to eight cups daily) dry up fluids and consumptive disorders, spermatorrhea (frequent invol- damage kidney yin over time. untary emission of semen), sexual hyperactivity, irritability, sleep disorders. Strengthening and enriching kidney yin and !warming kidney yang with appropriate foods Pathogenesis supplements the entire yin and yang of the body. This symptom complex is rooted in kidney yin Since all chronic illnesses eventually weaken kid- vacuity and is intensified by extreme emotional ney energy, it is often advisable to address kidney strain, such as fear, grief, and depression. Serious energy in the treatment of a wide variety of disor- emotional impacts, such as the sudden ending of a ders. relationship, can weaken heart yin and, when combined with fear, can sever the important deep jue yin axis between heart and kidney.

Kidney Yin Vacuity Symptoms Impotence, fertility disorders, amenorrhea (lack of (Shen Yin Xu), Heart Yin menstruation), severe exhaustion, dizziness, for- Vacuity (Xin Yin Xu), getfulness, sleep disorders, mental restlessness, heart palpitations, lower back pain, nocturnal Noninteraction of the Heart emissions, erotic dreams, strong sexual desire, and Kidney (Xin Shen Bu Jiao) back pain, irritability.

This syndrome involves a weakening of two Therapy important organ networks: kidney yin and heart yin. The condition, which should be taken very Enrich kidney yin and heart yin seriously, often appears in times of intense physi- KI-3 CV-4 SP-6 HT-5 cal and emotional strain and leads patients to see a p practitioner with a variety of different symptoms. Calm shen When the yin of an organ is reduced, especially HT-7 GV-20 kidney yin as the root of all yin, yang can no longer p be sufficiently contained. Exuberant yang pro- Clear heart vacuity fire duces heat, which further depletes the already HT-6 PC-8 PC-7 weakened yin. Yin vacuity produces yang hyperac- p tivity (yin xu yang kang). If heart and kidney yin are both weakened, yang fire can display distinct symptoms in the area of the spirit (shen). Exam- a Avoid: ples are sleep disturbances, heart palpitations, and Thermally hot and warm foods, cooking methods mental restlessness. This reflects insufficient kid- that increase yang in foods; high-proof alcoholic ney yin for cooling the heart fire. The association beverages, sweets, extreme lifestyles, mental between kidney yin vacuity and heart yin vacuity overexertion, sexual excess; stimulating drugs results from the deep and sensitive jue yin (revert- such as amphetamines and ecstasy. ing yin) axis. TCM believes that when this axis between heart and kidneys is completely severed, the process of dying begins. The negative effects of our modern civilization, such as intense physical strain with inadequate rest, mental stress, finan- cial worries, relationship issues, existential fears, Organ Network 89 r Recommended: Comment/Prognosis This very serious syndrome requires an immediate Thermal nature Neutral, cool and refreshing change of circumstances, sometimes including foods psychotherapy. Dietary measures can only play a Cooking method Cooling supplementary role in treating this syndrome, with some relief provided mainly by avoiding Flavor Bitter–neutral, bitter–cool, warming foods. Quieting yang hyperactivity with a salty–neutral, salty–cool combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs is Meat Pork, beef, poultry mandatory. At the same time, the entire body has Fruit Apples, bananas, refreshing to be balanced using dietary measures. types of fruit Vegetables Refreshing types of vegetables, mushrooms, asparagus, spinach, tomatoes Grains Barley, wheat germ, rice, corn Beverages Lemon balm tea, peppermint tea, wheat beer 90 Organ Network: Liver–Gallbladder Wood Phase

Bowel (Zang Organ): Organ Network Liver (Gan), LR Liver–Gallbladder Character “In charge of the Interior” Governs free coursing of qi Loves the unobstructed, harmonious flow of qi and The most important function of the liver is to thus assures all bodily functions work well. Distin- ensure unobstructed and uninterrupted qi flow in guishes itself by strategic planning. the body by coordinating and controlling the amount and speed of coursing qi and substances. Role in TCM: This requires equilibrium and harmony. Emotional Governs free coursing of qi impacts such as anger and rage immediately block Stores blood (xue) qi flow (liver qi stagnation). Stores the ethereal soul (hun) Governs muscles and sinews Symptoms Governs the making of strategy Muscle tension, feeling of oppression, chest tight- Opens at the eyes and blooms in the nails ness, premenstrual syndrome, and abdominal distension. Association with the five phases: Emotion: Rage, anger Stores blood (xue) Climate factor: Wind Another function of the liver is the storage of blood Season: Spring (xue). During periods of rest, when lying down or Direction: East sleeping, blood flows to the liver, is retained there Color: Green and then regenerated. The spleen network is Time of day: 1–3 a.m. responsible for the production of blood, while the heart network keeps the blood flowing. Emotions such as anger or rage seriously impact the flow of qi and can easily block or obstruct qi Viscera (Fu Organ): flow. Protracted unresolved obstructions lead to development of internal heat from such “heated Gallbladder (Dan), GB emotions,” causing symptoms such as ascendant liver yang (gan yang shang kang), liver fire (gan huo Character shang yan), depletion of liver yin, and liver wind “The Official who Makes Decisions” (gan feng). Function Supports digestion Looks after the “inner plan for life” Nutrition and Organ Gives courage and initiative Network Time of day: 11 p.m.–1 a.m.

The sour flavor associated with the liver is astringent and contracting, which gathers body fluids and protects blood. Unhealthy eating habits, strong emotions such as aggression, anger, and Organ Network 91 rage, and a hectic and stressful lifestyle produce often results in ascending liver yang,or, liver heat and impair liver function. in its more extreme form, liver fire flaming upward (gan huo shang yan), Diet, especially spices and alcohol, can help dis- which is often accompanied by liver yin perse qi obstruction to some extent, but its vacuity. In women, liver yin vacuity fre- impact is limited. Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, quently presents as blood vacuity. and movement therapy are more appropriate General: The liver is sensitive to external patho- treatments. genic factors such as wind and damp- With liver heat, it is absolutely necessary to ness and especially sensitive to emo- reduce energetically hot foods and emphasize tional upsets. Chinese medicine views cooling foods. the liver as a filter for all emotional With blood and liver yin vacuity, strengthen impact. The liver distributes the impact blood and yin via the liver network. in the body. Anger, rage, and resent- Anger, rage, and heated emotions can be ment cause the liver to “cramp up” and “calmed” or drained by cooling foods. inhibit the smooth coursing of qi. One of the most common syndromes in clinical practice is binding depression of liver qi (ganqiyujie), which is mainly attributable to emotional Liver Syndromes and imbalance. Even small emotional Chinese Nutrition impacts such as arguments, frustrations, etc. can block liver qi.Overa Binding depression of liver qi (stagnation) period of time (months to years) these (gan qi yu jie) problems accumulate and root deeply Ascendant liver yang (gan yang shang kang) inside the body. In addition to “undi- Liver fire flaming upward (gan huo shang yan) gested” emotions, a hectic and stressful Liver yin vacuity (gan yin xu) lifestyle can also overheat the liver. Liver blood vacuity (gan xue xu) Restoring balance to the liver network requires Imbalances of the liver network are very common. !not only dietary changes, but also changes in The primary purpose of this network is to smooth lifestyle, such as stress reduction, regular relax- and regulate the coursing of qi. The liver is the ation exercises, rest and meditation periods, as most important organ for the preservation of well as appropriate expression of one’s emotions. blood. Large amounts of blood return to the liver at night and are regenerated there. The liver opens at the eyes, which can show signs of possible imbal- ¢ ances. Binding Depression of Liver Qi (Gan Qi Yu Jie) Western diagnosis: Temporal headache, hypertension, sleep disorders, Western diagnosis: gynecological problems such as dysmenorrhea (painful Menstrual disorders, gynecological problems such as menstrual cramps) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps), disorders of Emotional imbalance with irritability and aggression. the vegetative (autonomous) nervous system, premenstrual syndrome, depression. Causes Diet: Warming foods and cooking methods, Symptoms especially acrid spices, high-proof alco- Feeling of congestion and swelling in chest, bloat- hol, and very fatty or oily foods, can ing in epigastric region, gas, irritability, depres- damage the liver. They have a heating sion, frustrations, mood swings with sudden out- effect and thus “ignite” liver yang, bursts of feeling, impaired appetite, premenstrual which in turn damages liver yin. This syndrome (PMS), nausea, retching, stomach aches, 92 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions diarrhea (restraining cycle, or xiang ke—liver as the combination LI-4 Union Valley (he gu) and excess attacks the stomach). LR-3 Supreme Surge (tai chong) are very useful in Tongue: Vividly colored, curled at the edges dissolving binding depression of liver qi. Pulse: Tight

Therapy ¢ Ascendant Liver Yang (Gan Yang Shang Kang) Clear binding depression of liver qi p LR-3 LR-14 GB-34 LR-13 Western diagnosis: Cephalgia (headaches), hypertension (high blood pressure), migraine, vertigo, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, Ménière disease (auditory vertigo), tinnitus. a Avoid: Foods that burden the liver. r Symptoms Irritability, loss of temper, temporal headaches, Beverages Alcohol, coffee feelings of pressure behind the eyes, vertigo (dizzi- Other Drugs, food coloring, ness), tinnitus, hearing loss, sleep disorders, dry preservatives, heavily spiced mouth. foods, sugar Tongue: Red, especially at the edges Pulse: Stringlike, tight r Recommended: Causes Only a few foods have a calming effect on the liver. Diet: Highly warming foods such as alcohol and acrid spices, as well as cooking Fruit Plums methods that increase yang produce Vegetables Radish, Chinese leek (gar- heat and cause yang to ascend. This lic chives), celery, brown also weakens liver yin. An excess of seaweed fatty foods and oils obstructs the coursing of qi and this stagnation can cause Nuts and seeds Black sesame heat. Other Crayfish, prawns (shrimp), General: Emotional impact such as suppressed vinegar anger, rage, resentment, or frustrations are the most common causes for To stimulate qi flow ascending liver yang.Liveryin vacuity or kidney yin vacuity can also cause Flavor Mild–acrid ascending liver yang. Excessive life- Spices Ginger, garlic, pepper (these styles, emotional imbalance, frustra- spices should be used only tion, living with constant time pres- in small amounts, otherwise sure, and unhealthy eating habits are they can damage the liver), witnessed more and more often in marjoram practice. These can cause a multitude Vegetables Kohlrabi, leeks, radish of ailments such as upper burner dis- Other Alcohol, coriander, chili orders, tinnitus, headaches, dizziness, (careful, hot!) and sleep disorders.

Binding depression of liver qi is commonly !found in practice with different levels of intensity. It is very well suited for acupuncture treatment, but is also suitable for treatment with Chi- nese phytotherapy. Acupuncture treatments such Organ Network 93

Therapy Thermal nature Neutral–cool, cold foods Cooking method Cooling, raw foods Strengthen liver yang LR-8 SP-6 KI-3 Flavor Sour–cool, sour–cold, p bitter–cool, bitter–cold Clear heat Fruit Rhubarb, lemons, apples, p LR-2 LR-3 mangos, mulberry fruit Vegetables Spinach, sprouts, tomatoes, Drain yang raw vegetables, dandelion, LR-3 GB-20 GB-34 GV-20 p gentian, Belgian endive hearts, celery Beverages Green tea, peppermint tea, a Avoid wheat beer, bread drink (a lacto-fermented beverage Thermal nature Warm and hot foods made from grain), apple juice Cooking method Warming Grains Spelt, wheat, wheat germ, mung beans, mung bean Flavor Bitter–hot, bitter–warm, sprouts acrid–warm, acrid–hot, sweet–hot, salty–hot, and Dairy products Sour milk products, yogurt sour–hot Legumes Mung beans, mung bean Spices Acrid spices, ginger, garlic, sprouts pepper, chili Other Salt Beverages High-proof alcohol, coffee Other Food coloring, preservatives, Despite its alcohol content, wheat beer is very salt, very oily and fatty foods, cooling for the liver and enriches yin. sugar r Comment/Prognosis With ascendant liver yang, all heat-generating Tip: No meat for six weeks! foods should be avoided. Treatment should begin with a cooling and yin enriching diet (four to six weeks of only vegetarian foods). In addition to r Recommended: acupuncture treatment, supplemented with Chi- All foods that have downbearing movement and nese herbs, it is important to convey to the patient enrich yin. that long-term stabilization requires a change in lifestyle (no stress, no anger!). With TCM as adjunct therapy, good to very good results can be obtained, depending on the changes made. Physi- cal exercise outdoors is important! 94 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

¢ Liver Fire Flaming Upward r Recommended:

(Gan Huo Shang Yan) Thermal nature Cool and cold foods Cooking method Cooling, raw foods Western diagnosis: Cephalgia (headaches), migraine, hypertension (high Flavor Sour–cool, sour–cold, bitter–cool, bitter–cold blood pressure), Ménière disease (auditory vertigo), tinnitus, chronic conjunctivitis. Foods Reduce salt and meat, vegetarian diet for several days Symptoms or weeks, no alcohol, no sugar, Restlessness, insomnia, irritability, sudden loss of no coffee; see also dietary temper, vertigo (dizziness), severe headaches, red recommendations for ascend- eyes, intraocular pressure, dry mouth, bitter taste ing liver yang, page 93. in mouth, nose bleeds, tinnitus. Tongue: Dry, red, red edges, yellow fur With liver fire flaming upward, choose foods with Pulse: Tight, rapid a downbearing and strongly cooling effect.

Causes Fruit Bananas, rhubarb, water- Diet: Excess alcohol, overly spicy and overly melons, lemons, tropical fruits fatty foods. Overuse of warming cook- Vegetables Cucumbers, water chestnuts, ing methods such as grilling, barbecu- spinach, tomatoes, celery ing, searing, frying, etc. Beverages Yerba mate tea, wheat beer, General: Common cause is liver qi stagnation vermouth resulting from prolonged emotional disharmony, such as anger, frustration, Dairy products Yogurt and rage. Other Salt, dandelion, gentian

Therapy Comment/Prognosis Cool liver fire With this syndrome, all heating foods need to be LR-2 LR-3 GB-20 strictly avoided. Symptoms often appear suddenly, p GB-34 LR-8 GB-13 and immediate acupuncture can help manage them. Combined with Chinese herbal remedies, long-term treatment can achieve good results. a Avoid: ¢ Thermal nature Hot and warm foods Liver Yin Vacuity (Gan Yin Xu)

Cooking method Warming Liver yin vacuity rarely occurs as a single syn- Flavor Acrid–hot, acrid–warm, drome. It is often combined with the following salty–hot, sweet–hot, syndromes: ascending liver yang, liver fire flaming bitter–hot, sour–hot upward, and blood or liver blood vacuity. Foods High-proof alcohol, strongly seasoned foods, very fatty and Western diagnosis: very oily foods Hypertension (high blood pressure), chronic conjunctivitis, cephalgia (headaches), and chronic migraine

Symptoms Nervousness, internal restlessness, dry eyes, vertigo (dizziness), headaches, red face, red cheeks, Organ Network 95 hot palms and soles of feet (typical sign of yin r Recommended: vacuity), impaired vision, depression. Tongue: Reddish, dry Thermal nature Cool, cold, and neutral foods Pulse: Thin, rapid, stringlike Cooking method Cooling

Causes Flavor Sour–refreshing, sour–cool, sour–neutral, sweet–cool, Diet: Overly acrid foods, overuse of cooking sweet–cold methods that increase yang, too many fatty, oily foods. Vegetables Cucumbers, sauerkraut, General: Extreme physical and emotional strain celeriac (celery root), spinach, can weaken liver yin. Excessive night tomatoes work weakens liver yin and also blood Beverages Bread drink (a lacto-fermented since, according to TCM, blood is stored beverage made from grain) and regenerated in the liver at night. Grains Spelt, barley, wheat This syndrome is becoming more and more common, since long hours in Dairy products Sour milk products front of the computer weaken liver yin. Soy products Tofu

Excess yang energy, for example due to heated emotional strain or hot foods, provokes syndromes Comment/Prognosis such as ascending liver yang or liver fire. A balanced diet with neutral and slightly cooling foods, as well as avoiding excess of warming foods, Therapy along with other lifestyle changes can improve symptoms. Nourish liver yin p LR-8 SP-6 KI-3 BL-18 ¢ Liver Blood Vacuity (Gan Xue Xu) a Avoid: This symptom usually appears in combination Thermal nature Hot and warm foods with liver yin vacuity. Flavor Bitter–hot, acrid–hot, Western diagnosis: sour–hot Anemia, neuroses, menstrual disorders such as Cooking method Warming dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea. Foods All foods that further weaken yin, especially acrid spices, Symptoms coffee, high-proof alcohol, red Vertigo (dizziness), blurred vision, dry eyes, dull wine, smoking complexion, pronounced paleness, night blindness, general weakness, numbness of extremities, tremors, cramps, menstrual disorders such as amenorrhea, insomnia.

Causes Diet: An excess of overly spicy and warming foods weaken body yin. Foods that are too cold reduce spleen qi and inhibit the formation of blood. General: Blood loss, for example during surgery or childbirth. Exaggerated activity at 96 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

night, when the liver stores and regen- Vegetables All thermally neutral and erates blood. Blood is an important yin refreshing vegetables, espe- substance that is built up primarily by cially those of a red color such good spleen function, but also by good as beets, red cabbage, carrots, kidney function. Prolonged negative as well as spinach, fennel impacts on the three organs spleen, Meat Poultry, poultry liver, beef, beef kidney, and liver result in blood vacu- stock, beef liver, veal liver, lamb ity. Since blood is the mode of trans- liver (liver preferably from portation for qi, blood vacuity weakens organically raised animals) the entire body. Sinew, muscle, and nail Fish Oysters, mussels, octopus, problems result from malnutrition perch, eel caused by blood vacuity. Blood is the Fruit Red types of fruit such as “bed of rest” for the spirit (shen), which grapes, sweet cherries, longans cannot be firmly anchored with liver (a type of lychee), plums blood vacuity. Symptoms include insomnia, sleepwalking, and mental Nuts and seeds Sesame, sunflower seeds instability. Beverages Red beet juice, sweet cherry juice, plum juice, red tea Therapy (rosehip tea, hibiscus), red grape juice, red wine in Generate liver blood moderation SP-10 SP-6 BL-17 p BL-18 LR-8 Recommended for liver blood vacuity: Meat Poultry, duck, rabbit liver, hare Enrich kidney yin liver, pork liver (liver preferably KI-3 KI-6 SP-6 from organically raised p animals) Supplement spleen qi Fish Oysters, crab, white fish, perch SP-3 BL-20 BL-21 p Fruit Apples, lychees, plums, grapes, longans (a type of lychee) Vegetables Thermally neutral and cooling Avoid: a vegetables from the wood Warming cooking methods, thermally hot foods. phase that are green in color, All bitter foods, especially the flavors bitter–hot such as beans, broccoli, lamb’s and bitter–warm. Acrid–hot and acrid–warm fla- lettuce, lotus root, mangold vors, since these dry out blood. Black tea, cocoa, chard, spinach, sprouts, toma- acrid spices, such as garlic, ginger, pepper, curry, toes cinnamon, etc. Energetically hot beverages such as Beverages Carrot juice, tomato juice coffee, high-proof alcohol, yogi tea. Grains Wheat, short-grain (glutinous) r Recommended: rice Spices Watercress, marjoram, parsley Cooking method Cooling root Flavors Sweet–neutral, sweet–warm, Nuts and seeds Sesame, sunflower seeds sour–neutral, sour–cool Other Egg yolk Grains Amaranth, short-grain (glutinous) rice, rice 97 Organ Network: Heart–Small Intestine Fire Phase

Bowel (Zang Organ): Heart Organ Network (Xin), HT Heart–Small Intestine r Character Houses spirit (shen) “Ruler and Godlike Emperor” Shen comprises spirit or “consciousness” in its The heart represents all the emotional, mental, broadest sense: The mental, intellectual, emo- and spiritual abilities and activities that make up tional and spiritual abilities of a person. TCM the unique personality of a person. It is the seat of believes that these are closely connected to heart, consciousness and mental vitality. blood, and yin. Blood is a material anchor for shen. Disturbances of the spirit (insomnia or confusion; Role in TCM: shen pi, or lassitude of spirit and lack of strength) Governs blood (xue) and blood vessels can be associated with material aspects such as Governs circulation of blood heart blood vacuity. The spirit can be calmed by Houses spirit (shen) avoiding energetically very hot foods (garlic, gin- Opens at the tongue and governs speech, sense ger, alcohol). Often these dietary measures are of taste in keeping with religious or spiritual dietary recommendations intended to calm the mind. Association with the five phases: Strengthening blood can cure certain types of Emotion: Joy insomnia. Climate factor: Heat Season: Summer Governs blood Direction: South The heart is responsible for anchoring qi extracted Color: Red from food (gu qi) in the blood and for circulation of Flavor: Bitter blood in the body. Time of day: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Nutrition and Organ Viscera (Fu Organ): Network Small Intestine (Xiao Chang) An excess of hot foods should be avoided to keep Character the spirit and heart calm. “Holds the Office of Reception” Avoid further stimulating external heat (climate factor) or “inner” heat resulting from stress and Function frenzy or from drinking coffee or eating acrid Receives “water and grain” (food) that has been spices. decomposed in the stomach and transforms it An excess of bitter flavors can dry out blood and further. body fluids. Separates the turbid from the clear liquids and Building up heart yin through dietary measures extracts nutrients from food. can support blood. On a mental level: Facilitates powers of judg- Blood stagnation, similar to qi stagnation, can ment and distinction between important and only be partially resolved through dietary mea- unimportant sures, and is more successfully treated with acu- Time of day: 1–3 p.m. puncture and Chinese herbs. 98 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

ning, can cause sleep disturbance, restlessness, Heart Syndromes etc. and Chinese Nutrition The syndrome “heart fire flaming upward” (xin Heart qi vacuity (xin qi xu) huo shang yan) should be treated by restricting all Heart yang vacuity (xin yan xu) yang foods and cooking methods and by using bit- Heart blood vacuity (xin xue xu) ter–cool foods. The syndromes “phlegm–fire Heart yin vacuity (xin jin xu) harassing the heart” (tan huo rao xin) and “phlegm Heart fire flaming upward (xin huo shang yan) confounding the orifices of the heart” (tanmixin qiao) should be treated by following the dietary TCM believes the heart to be the emperor of the recommendations for reducing phlegm and by body. Its most important function is to house the making use of phlegm-loosening foods. These con- spirit (shen). The spirit resides in blood and yin, ditions are more successfully treated with herbal creating a natural connection between heart and remedies and acupuncture. The same holds true blood. Besides the mental and spiritual connec- for “heart blood stasis obstruction.” Chinese nutrition, the heart (fire phase) warms the body and tion is effective for treating the following syn- provides it with liveliness. Joy is associated with dromes: heart yang vacuity, heart blood vacuity, the heart. Other important functions of the heart and heart yin vacuity. network are to govern blood (xue) and blood vessels and to govern sweat. Disharmonies in the heart network are caused by emotions such as ¢ Heart Yang Vacuity (Xin Yang Xu) extreme joy, but also by sadness and anger. Other triggering factors for heart problems can be a Heart qi vacuity and heart yang vacuity are treated heavy workload under intense time pressure; with the same nutritional therapy. Heart yang external pathogenic factors, especially heat; and vacuity, with its additional cold component, differs lack of joy or love. in its symptoms from heart qi vacuity.

Western diagnosis: Western diagnosis: Insomnia, restlessness, heart palpitations, paroxysmal Autonomic heart conditions, convalescence, cardiac tachycardia, tachyarrhythmia, vertigo (dizziness), night arrhythmia, exhaustion. sweats, nightmares, cardiovascular disorders. Symptoms Therapy Listlessness, fatigue, exhaustion, cold extremities, General: Dietary treatments for disharmonies in pale glowing face, dyspnea (shortness of breath) the heart network are limited. As with on exertion, chest tightness in the area of the all repletion (excess) syndromes that heart, sometimes racing heart with sensation of display heat symptoms, avoiding yang extreme heart beats, shortness of breath, sponta- foods and cooking methods and giving neous sweating. preference to soothing yin products Tongue: Pale, slightly swollen and cooling cooking methods is recom- Pulse: Weak mended. Vacuity patterns can be treated with warm and neutral foods. Causes Bitter–warm and bitter–neutral flavors General: Extreme emotional strain, especially of the fire phase are recommended. sadness, can first cause heart qi vacuity and then heart yang vacuity. Blood loss The heart network is especially sensitive to exter- first weakens heart qi and then heart nal and internal heat. In treating heart disharmony yang. Heart yang vacuity can also be conditions, overly hot and warm foods such as partially caused by kidney yang vacu- acrid spices or high-proof alcohol should be used ity, since the kidneys are the root of very sparingly. Even small amounts of acrid foods, yang in the body. Symptoms appear in for example pepper or garlic eaten in the late eve- the periphery of the body, the head, Organ Network 99

and the extremities, since the body no Coffee dries up blood and should be consumed longer has sufficient yang energy to !only in moderation, despite its bitter–hot adequately supply these areas. effect; if possible, add warming spices such as cardamom or cinnamon to reduce the stagnation- Therapy causing effects of coffee.

Strengthen and supplement heart yang Comment/Prognosis Supplement yang Lifestyle changes such as going to sleep before 11 p.m. and sufficient rest and relaxation periods HT-5 BL-15 CV-4 are important. Heart yang and heart qi can be p CV-6 Moxa regenerated within weeks or months with longer periods of rest and by following the appropriate dietary recommendations. a Avoid: All foods that reduce and weaken yang. ¢ Heart Blood Vacuity (Xin Xue Xu) Thermal nature All cool and cold foods Cooking method Cooling Western Diagnoses: Anemia, autonomic heart conditions, exhaustion, and Flavor Bitter–cool, bitter–cold convalescence. Vegetables Raw vegetables Symptoms Fruit Citrus fruits Pale face, pale lips, heart palpitations, fatigue, Dairy products Yogurt weakness, inner restlessness, forgetfulness, easily Other Ice cream, ice-cold drinks; also startled, frequent blinking, sleep disturbance with frozen foods and foods heated many dreams, vertigo (dizziness), trouble falling in the microwave, since they do asleep, nightmares, depression, agitation. not have sufficient qi. Tongue: Pale, tear in the center, sometimes swelling at the tip Pulse: Thin r Recommended: Causes Thermal nature Warm–neutral; hot in small Diet: Overly acrid foods that damage yin. amounts Highly dehydrating foods such as cof- Cooking method Warming fee or alcohol. Dietary errors that cause spleen vacuity and prevent sufficient Flavor Bitter–warm; bitter–hot in blood formation. moderation, sour–hot/warm, General: Heart blood vacuity generally has the sweet–hot/warm, same causes as general blood vacuity acrid–hot/warm or liver blood acuity. Loss of blood, for Meat Lamb, beef example during childbirth, too much Grains Buckwheat, corn, short-grain stress, extreme physical activity (glutinous) rice, oats (sweating weakens qi and yang energy), lingering emotional problems, Beverages Yogi tea, warm wheat beer, especially sadness and anger, all dam- coffee, cocoa age yin. Other Aniseed, chili 100 Application of Chinese Dietetics for Specific Conditions

Therapy ¢ Heart Yin Vacuity (Xin Yin Xu)

Strengthen heart blood Western diagnosis: p BL-15 CV-14 CV-15 Anemia, chronic exhaustion, hypertension (high blood pressure), menopause, chronic sleep disturbances. Supplement spleen SP-6 BL-20 ST-36 SP-3 p r Symptoms Enrich body yin Inner restlessness, anxiety, trouble falling asleep SP-6 KI-6 KI-3 CV-4 with many dreams, trouble sleeping through the p night, thirst, dry mouth, agitation, red cheeks, subfebrile (below normal) body temperature in the evening. Especially important differential symptom: Night sweat, hot flushes, hot feet and soles of a Avoid: feet. Thermal nature Foods that are too hot or Tongue: Red, no fur, red dots at the tip, tear at too warm the tip Pulse: Vacuous, floating, rapid Cooking method Warming Foods Highly dehydrating foods such Causes as coffee, red wine, acrid spices General: Fever, too much talking, stress, always “being on the run,” hectic lifestyle, excessive sexual activity late at night. r Recommended:

Thermal nature Neutral–warm, cool Differential Diagnosis Differentiating heart yang vacuity from heart yin Flavor Sweet–warm, sweet–neutral, vacuity: Increased trouble sleeping through the sour–neutral night with heart yin vacuity; common in middle- Meat Blood sausage, chicken meat, aged and older people. beef, pheasant Fish Oysters Therapy Fruit Cherries, longans (a type of Strengthen heart yin lychee), red grapes HT-6 Grains Short-grain (glutinous) rice, p wheat, oats Calm spirit (shen) Beverages Goat’s milk, sheep’s milk, p GV-20 CV-15 cow’s milk Enrich body yin SP-6 KI-6 KI-3 Also all foods recommended for general strength- p ening of blood (see p. 60ff.). a Avoid:

Thermal nature Hot and warm foods Cooking method Warming Flavor Acrid–hot, acrid–warm, bitter–hot, bitter–warm Foods All drying and warming foods Organ Network 101 r Recommended: Therapy

Thermal nature Neutral, cooling, possibly Cool heart fire slightly warming foods p HT-7 HT-8 PC-5 Flavor Sweet–neutral, sweet–warm, sweet–cool, bitter–neutral, Calm spirit (shen) sour–neutral, sour–cool p GV-20 HT-9 Meat Beef, (pork) Fruit Red grapes a Avoid: Grains Wheat (pasta) Dairy products Goat’s milk cheese, sheep’s Thermal nature Warming foods and cooking milk cheese methods Nuts and seeds Poppy seed, black sesame Flavor Bitter–hot, acrid–hot Other Poppy seed pastry Foods High-proof alcohol, acrid spices

r Recommended: ¢ Heart Fire Flaming Upward (Xin Huo Shang Yan) Thermal nature Cool and cold foods Flavor Bitter–cool, bitter–cold, Western diagnosis: sour–cool, sour–cold High blood pressure, autonomic heart conditions, Fruit Rhubarb, watermelons, glossitis (burning tongue). lemons Vegetables Raw vegetable salads, r Symptoms tomatoes, dandelion Intense emotional symptoms such as inner rest- Beverages Bread drink (a lacto-fermented lessness, anxiety, sleep disorders with nightmares, beverage made from grain), emotional instability and impulsiveness, red face, black tea erosion and ulceration in the mouth area (canker Dairy products Sour milk products sores), bitter taste in mouth, dark urine. Tongue: Red tip, yellow fur, red dots Other Gentian, vermouth, green tea Pulse: Rapid, strong

Causes Comment/Prognosis Diet: Too many overly spicy and warming In its acute stage, this syndrome can be only mar- foods. ginally improved through dietary therapy. It can, General: Strong emotional agitation and strain, however, benefit from nutritional therapy in the such as long-suppressed fears and long term. Treatment should focus on acupuncture worries can suddenly discharge as and Chinese herbal remedies. heart fire flaming upward.

Heart fire flaming upward is frequently associated with kidney yin and heart yin vacuity, resulting in loss of governance of heart yang. Page intentionally left blank 4 Food Classification

Vegetables...... 105 Grains and Soy...... 113 Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments . . . 120 Fruit...... 129 Meat and Poultry ...... 138 Fish/Seafood ...... 143 Dairy Products, Eggs, Oils, and Fats ...... 149 Nuts and Seeds ...... 156 Alcoholic Beverages, Coffee, and Tea ...... 160 Page intentionally left blank 105 Vegetables

Vegetables represent all flavors and all variations Bamboo Sprouts of thermal nature. Chinese dietetics believes vegetables to be the ideal complement to grains. The Flavor Sweet classic Su Wen states: “The five types of grain nourish, the five types of vegetables complete.” Organ network Stomach, lung To treat repletion (robust person; loud, power- Direction Downbearing ful voice; sensation of heat, hyperactivity, cho- Phase Earth leric features, extroverted, tongue with thick fur, replete pulse): Celery root (celeriac), lettuce, Effect Clear heat, enrich yin, calm spinach, eggplant, and tomato. restlessness, transform To treat vacuity (weak person; weak, quiet phlegm, downbear qi, diuretic and laxative voice; shivering, frequently tired and exhausted, introverted, swollen tongue, weak pulse): Fen- Preparation As salad, cold, boiled, nel, sweet potatoes, potatoes, carrots, and cab- methods stir-fried, or as decoction bage. Contains Plenty of water, protein, fat, To treat heat (red face, thirst for cold drinks, calcium, phosphorus, worsening of condition and pain with heat, red potassium, vitamins B1, B2, tongue, rapid pulse): Tomato, cucumber, sprouts niacin (bamboo, soy bean, mung bean), and dandelion. To treat cold (shivering, aversion to cold, condition and pain worsens with cold, pale, swollen Indications tongue; weak, slow pulse): Leek, onion, green Heat in stomach: onion, fennel, and carrots. Heartburn, gastritis, ulceration in stomach and To treat dampness (general feeling of heaviness, intestinal tract, thirst, dry mouth pathological swelling and edema; chronic Heat phlegm disorders of the lung: phlegm disorders, for example frontal sinusitis, Bronchitis, sinusitis with viscous, yellow bronchitis, cysts, tumors): Belgian endive hearts. phlegm To treat dryness (dry mouth and lips, chapped skin, dry mucous membranes): Tomato, cucum- Boil fresh bamboo sprouts and eat ber. c them cold, mixed with a little ginger, salt, and vinegar. 106 Food Classification

Cabbage Chinese Cabbage

Thermal (Napa Cabbage) nature Neutral Thermal Neutral, tendency towards Flavor Sweet nature cold Organ network Large intestine, stomach Flavor Sweet Direction Upbearing Organ network Stomach, large intestine Phase Earth Direction Downbearing Effect Supplements center burner, Phase Earth alleviates acute pain, promotes digestion Effect Clears heat, promotes digestion, creates body Preparation Raw, as salad, or as a juice fluids, diuretic and laxative methods (good for intestinal ulcers)

Contains High in vitamin B1, B2, C, and Preparation Juiced, boiled, or as A, beta-carotene, flavonoids, methods decoction calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc Contains Rich in vitamin A, B1, and C, niacin, calcium and iron; beta-carotene, magnesium, Indications phosphorus, essential amino Stomach and spleen disharmony and stagnation: acids, mustard oils Cramplike-pain in center abdomen, constipation Stomach and duodenal ulcers (Western and Chi- Indications nese medicine views converge here) Heat in stomach: Gastritis, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, thirst, dry mouth Heat in lung: Feverish cold, cough

Decoction of Chinese cabbage juice, c radish, and honey. Dryness and heat in intestine: Constipation, flatulence Vegetables 107

Cucumber Eggplant (Aubergine)

Thermal Thermal nature Cool nature Cool Flavor Sweet Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, stomach, large Organ network Stomach and spleen, large intestine intestine Direction Downbearing Direction Downbearing Phase Earth Phase Earth Effect Clears heat, drains yang, Effect Clears heat, moves and cools diuretic, reduces swelling, blood, disperses blood detoxifies, clears skin stasis, reduces swelling, eases pain; harmonizes liver Preparation As salad, raw, boiled, fried, and uterus, especially with methods or as decoction suppressed emotions Contains Water, vitamin B , B , niacin, 1 2 Preparation Boiled, stir-fried, baked, as beta-carotene, rutin, high in methods juice, decoction or preserved potassium, magnesium, in wine amaroids (bitters) Contains Water, carbohydrates, vitamin C, calcium, niacin, Indications iron, phosphorus, above- General heat symptoms: average amount of Thirst, anxiety, swelling and pain in throat, potassium, amaroids hoarseness, reddened and swollen eyes, acne, (bitters), essential oils skin inflammations Summer heat: Good nutritional supplement during hot season, Indications especially for conditions brought on by external Heat in blood: heat Skin disorders with itching and red cutaneous External use: efflorescence, skin ulcers and growths, breast Red, inflamed, swollen and dry eyes; for regen- inflammation (mastitis), carbuncle (external eration of facial skin (in Arabia, cucumber juice use), bloody stool, hemorrhoids was a common ingredient in facial soaps), for first-degree skin burns (sunburn) Damp–heat in large intestine: Traveler’s diarrhea

Contraindications Cold and vacuity symptoms in center burner: Stomach aches and diarrhea; worsens with cold 108 Food Classification

Green Onions Contraindications General lack of strength and tendency to sponta- (Spring Onions) neous sweating

Thermal nature Warm Flavor Acrid Leek Organ network Lung, stomach Thermal Direction Upbearing nature Warm Phase Metal Flavor Acrid Effect Removes external patho- Organ network Lung, liver, stomach, kidney genic weather factors from Direction Upbearing and downbearing body surface, moves yang and dissipates cold, detoxi- Phase Wood, metal fies Effect Regulates and moves qi, Preparation Decoction, juice, paste, dissolves blood stasis, methods stir-fried, steamed or as a supplements, supports spice; decreasing effect kidney yang, warms center when cooked too long. burner, dissipates cold, disperses wind–cold Contains Rich in essential oils, pre- influences, detoxifies dominantly allicin; rich in vitamin C and A, calcium; also Contains Vitamin B1, rich in vitamin C,

vitamin B1 and B2; potas- iron, magnesium, calcium, sium, phosphorus, iron, phosphorus, amaroids iodine, and selenium (bitters)

Indications Indications Colds due to external wind and cold influences: Cold symptoms in center burner: Shivering, dislike of cold, fever without sweat- Dysphagia (difficulty or pain when swallowing), ing, headaches, stuffy nose abdominal pain, reduced appetite, diarrhea Cold symptoms in center burner: Kidney yang vacuity: Abdominal pain and diarrhea Loss of libido, impotence, premature ejaculation, back (lumbar) pain, urorrhea (passage of Decoction of green onions urine per rectum), weakness in back and legs and ginger. Blood stasis: c Abdominal swelling and pain Abdominal pain due to parasite infestation External wind–cold influences: First signs of a beginning cold, influenza with About 30 g (one tablespoon) each of chills, aversion to cold green onion juice and sesame oil c Contraindications daily. Heat symptoms Acute ulceration or lesions in the initial stage General yin vacuity

Two to three tablespoons of green c onion juice with a little brown sugar to taste and hot water; take once daily. Vegetables 109

Lettuce Lotus Root

Thermal Thermal Raw: cool nature Cool nature Cooked: warming Flavor Sweet, bitter Flavor Sweet Organ network Large intestine, stomach Organ network Stomach, spleen, heart Direction Downbearing Direction Downbearing Phase Fire, earth Phase Earth Effect Clears heat, diuretic, Effect When eaten raw, clears heat, stimulates milk flow produces fluids, cools blood, disperses stagnation; when Preparation Raw, boiled, cooked, supports the center methods or as decoction burner, supplements blood, Contains Calcium, vitamin A and C, relieves diarrhea. chlorophyll (stored primarily in outer leaves) Indications Heat symptoms: Indications Fever, thirst, restlessness General heat symptoms and heat in bladder: Restlessness, thirst, nervousness, micturition (urination) problems, burning sensation when Raw lotus root urinating; sparse, dark urine c Disturbance of milk flow after birth Blood heat symptoms: Nosebleeds, bloody stool

c Raw lotus root Center burner vacuity: Lack of appetite (anorexia), nausea, dysphagia (problems or pain when swallowing), diarrhea

c Cooked lotus root Blood vacuity: General fatigue, vertigo (dizziness), recurrent collapses or breakdowns. Recommended especially following childbirth: Lotus root cooked with angelica (radix angelicae sinensis) replenishes blood. 110 Food Classification

Onion External use for insect bites, swelling, pain: Raw onion or onion juice compress Thermal nature Warm Contraindications Heat symptoms Flavor Acrid and sweet (by lightly General yin vacuity braising) Organ network Lung, stomach, large intestine Direction Upbearing Spinach

Effect Supplements stomach, Thermal regulates qi, disperses blood nature Cool stasis, drives out cold, produces perspiration, Flavor Sweet promotes appetite, loosens Organ network Stomach, liver, large qi stagnation, and supple- intestine, small intestine ments center burner when abdomen is taut and Effect Clears heat, moistens appetite is lacking dryness, promotes the formation of body fluids, Preparation As juice, fried, or dried; supplements blood, methods onions lose their effect when supplements liver, supports cooked too long yin, downbears qi (especially Contains High concentration of sulfur- of liver and stomach) based essential oils Preparation Blanched, as salad or side (isothiocyanate), many methods dish, boiled phytonutrients especially the flavonoid quercetin, Contains Rich in Vitamin A and C, calcium, iodine, selenium, beta-carotene, folic acid, phosphorus, fluoride, vitamin B1, amino acids, phosphorus, oxalic acid, potassium, vitamin B1, B2, and C, prostaglandin A, calcium, iron mustard oils Indications Heat in stomach: Indications Heartburn, gastritis, gastrointestinal ulcers, Hypertension (high blood pressure), hyper- thirst, dry mouth, and restlessness lipidemia (elevated lipoprotein levels in blood Heat symptoms and liver yin vacuity: plasma), coronary heart disease (Western and Headache, dizziness, tinnitus, reddened eyes, Chinese medicine) restlessness, blurred vision, night blindness, Bronchitis (Western and Chinese medicine) insomnia Wind–cold and phlegm disorders: Western indications: Tinnitus, hypertension General cold with cold symptoms, bronchitis, (blood pressure), following excessive alcohol sinusitis (loosens phlegm), chest and throat consumption colds Blanch spinach, let cool; season with Traditional recipe: soy sauce, vinegar, and salt. Boil an onion with a teaspoon of c honey; apply externally as onion c Heat in blood: packs or rub on chest. Nosebleeds, skin disorders with itching, reddened cutaneous efflorescence Vegetables 111

Dryness and heat in large intestine: Tomato Constipation, anal fistula, hemorrhoids, blood in stool, chronic constipation in elderly people Thermal Cold nature Contraindications Flavor Sweet and sour Center burner vacuity with a tendency to diarrhea Organ network Stomach, liver Direction Downbearing Phase Wood, earth Sweet Potato Effect Clears heat, enriches yin (especially liver yin), pro- Thermal Neutral with a tendency duces fluids and removes nature towards warm dryness, cools and cleans blood, strengthens stomach, Flavor Sweet promotes liver network Organ network Stomach, spleen, kidney activity Direction Upbearing Preparation Raw, as juice, boiled, Phase Earth methods sautéed, or as decoction Effect Supplements center burner Contains High in vitamin A, B1, B2, and and supports formation of qi C, zinc, cobalt, magnesium, and blood, disperses qi calcium, phosphorus, iron, stagnation, harmonizes potassium, essential oils, blood, produces fluids, natural hormones, oxalic strengthens kidney yin, acid (caution in case of kid- laxative in its raw form ney stones!) Contains Pantothenic acid, vitamin A and C, potassium, magne- Indications sium Heat in blood: Nosebleeds, skin disorders with itching, red- Indications dened cutaneous efflorescence, sun allergy, sea- Stomach qi, spleen qi, or yang vacuity: sonal allergies Diarrhea with “cold symptoms and signs” and Heat in liver and liver yin vacuity: weakness; constipation Headaches, red itching eyes, vertigo (dizziness), tinnitus, night blindness, blurred vision, hyper- Contraindications tension (high blood pressure) Excessive consumption leads to stagnations in center burner with bloating and distension. Western recommendation: c One to two tomatoes for breakfast. Heat symptoms and yin vacuity of stomach: Thirst, dry throat, lack of appetite, restlessness Heat symptoms and vacuity of body fluids: Restlessness, nervousness

Fresh tomatoes with sugar, mixture c of tomatoes and melon juice. 112 Food Classification

Contraindications Cold and vacuity in center burner

Constant and excessive consumption of toma- !toes, especially during the cold seasons, causes pronounced cooling and weakening of the body. Daily dosage is about one to two tomatoes. Unripe tomatoes and tomatoes with green patches can weaken the kidney network. 113 Grains and Soy

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips, and skin; con- grains should make up the main part of one’s daily stipation): Wheat, spelt. diet. Grains supply the body with strength and endurance, and promote emotional stability, men- Tips for the preparation of grains tal calm, and balance (especially wheat). In Chinese nutrition, grains are always eaten Grains are mostly sweet and primarily affect the cooked or as a decoction, never raw. Grains can be spleen/pancreas and stomach organ network. eaten whole, ground coarsely or finely (preferably Their thermal nature is warm, neutral, or cool, freshly ground just before use), or rolled into depending on the type of grain. flakes. A diet rich in grains ensures a good balance If at all possible, use organically grown and pro- between qi, yin, and yang formation. cessed grain. Always rinse grain well before use. With cold symptoms, during the cold season, or To shorten the cooking time for grains and to when following a primarily vegetarian diet, warm- make them more digestible, soak grains for ing types of grain such as oats or buckwheat 3–10 hours before cooking. This reduces phytin should be given preference. In those cases, the (phytic acid, inhibits minerals absorption) and thermal energy of grains should be raised by add- makes minerals more available. ing warming spices and vegetables like cinnamon, Cook grains in their soaking liquid. ginger, garlic, raisins, and fennel to the diet. Soaking is not necessary for millet, buckwheat, Soy is listed with grains here (even though it is a rice, or ground corn (polenta). legume), because it plays a similar nutritional role To cook grains, use two to two-and-a-half parts in Chinese dietetics. of water for each part of grain. For barley, To treat repletion (strong person, loud, power- Grünkern (dried, unripe spelt kernels), and ful voice, choleric features, extroverted; red especially polenta, three to four parts of water tongue, sometimes with thick fur): Wheat, rice, can be used. barley. Cook buckwheat, millet, white rice, coarsely, To treat vacuity (weak person; weak, quiet ground grains, or grain flakes for about voice; frequently tired and exhausted; pale, 20–25 minutes. swollen tongue; weak pulse): Oats, rice, spelt, Cook brown rice, spelt kernels, and Grünkern for corn, millet. about 45 minutes. To treat heat (red tongue, rapid pulse, red face, Cook wheat, barley, and whole oat kernels for reddened eyes, nervousness): Wheat, barley, about 1 hour. amaranth. For best results, after cooking, remove pot from To treat cold (pale, swollen tongue, weak; slow heat source and allow grains to sit, covered, for pulse, shivering, aversion to cold, worsening of about 30 minutes. condition and pain with cold): Oats, rice, corn. Salt, herbs, or spices, if desired, should be added To treat dampness (swelling, edema; chronic to grain dishes after cooking. phlegm disorders, e.g., frontal sinusitis, bronchi- Spices that make grains more digestible: Cara- tis): Millet, rye, buckwheat, barley. way, fennel, anise, coriander. 114 Food Classification

Barley Buckwheat

Thermal Thermal Varies depending on source, nature Cool nature classified mostly as cool, in some sources as warm Flavor Salty, sweet Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, stomach Organ network Stomach, spleen, large Direction Downbearing intestine Phase Earth, water Phase Earth Effect Clears heat, moistens Effect Downbears qi, supplements dryness, nourishes yin, spleen, loosens hardness, harmonizes stomach, dispels dampness removes digestive obstructions, detoxifies, Preparation Cooked whole or ground as increases diuresis (formation methods porridge, decoction, or as and secretion of urine) flower Preparation Cooked whole, ground, as Contains Protein, fat, carbohydrates, methods flakes, as a decoction, as calcium, phosphorus, iron, porridge potassium, copper, vitamin B , B , B , and E, lecithin, Contains Protein, starch, fat, calcium, 1 2 3 lysine, tryptophane vitamin B1, B2, and B6, pantothenic acid, folic acid, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, Indications zinc, silicic acid, mucins Stagnation and counterflow stomach qi: Nausea, vomiting, pain, abdominal distention

Indications Contraindications Heat symptoms: (Depending on Thermal Classification) Agitation, nervousness, insomnia, dryness of Warm classification: mouth Excessive consumption of buckwheat can produce heat symptoms and provoke internal Porridge of freshly ground and upbearing heat syndromes, dizziness, head- cooked barley . aches, restlessness, etc. c Cool classification: Disharmony in center burner (especially stom- Limit intake for stomach spleen vacuity. ach): Nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, abdominal pain due to bloating and food stagnation; supports digestive function

Porridge of freshly ground and c cooked barley with slightly warming ingredients, for example raisins and cinnamon. Water accumulation (edema) in body Grains and Soy 115

Corn Millet

Thermal Thermal Neutral to slightly warming nature Neutral nature (depending on source, some sources classify it as cool) Flavor Sweet Flavor Sweet and salty Organ network Kidney, large intestine, stomach Organ network Stomach, spleen, kidney Phase Earth Direction Downbearing Effect Supplements center burner, Phase Earth, water kidneys, qi, and blood; Effect Supplements, strengthens, balances body fluids, and harmonizes center harmonizes stomach, burner (best grain besides strengthens diuresis rice for this organ network), (production and elimination strengthens kidneys (very of urine) good food during preg- Preparation Boiled, as porridge or nancy), supplements blood methods decoction and qi, dispels dampness, transforms phlegm, Contains Protein, fat, starch, iron, downbears counterflow phosphorus, vitamin B , B 1 2 stomach qi, diuretic, B , and E, high in unsatu- 6 detoxifying rated fatty acids, calcium, potassium, selenium. Preparation Cooked as porridge, decoc- Suitable for gluten-free diet! methods tion, or steamed Contains Carbohydrates, protein, Indications starch, fat (high in linoleic Center burner vacuity: acid), calcium, phosphorus, Lack of appetite, indigestion, diarrhea rich in iron, fluoride, Kidney yin vacuity: magnesium, vitamin B1 and Lack of strength, weakness, and sensation of B6, lecithin, extremely high in silicic acid cold in lower extremities, impotence Water accumulation in body: Edema and bloating Indications Center burner vacuity: Lack of appetite, general weakness, fatigue, diarrhea

Millet muesli (or porridge) for break- c fast, with raisins, nuts, cinnamon, and fruits in season. Dampness and phlegm disorders due to spleen vacuity Recurrent phlegm disorders (sinusitis, bronchitis), dull feeling of heaviness in head, feeling of heaviness in extremities, nausea, indigestion. Counterflow stomach qi: Acute and chronic nausea, vomiting, morning sickness 116 Food Classification

Stomach and intestinal infections: Rice (White and Brown) Following intake of spoiled foods, with acute nausea and diarrhea Thermal Neutral General weakness, lack of strength, and sensa- nature tion of cold, especially weakness in lower Flavor Sweet extremities Organ network Spleen, stomach, lung Direction Upbearing Oats Phase Earth Effect Supplements qi and blood, Thermal harmonizes stomach, nature Neutral to warm strengthens spleen, Flavor Sweet regulates and produces body fluids, relieves diarrhea, Organ network Spleen, stomach, kidney diuretic Direction Upbearing Preparation Boiled as porridge, steamed, Phase Earth, water methods as a decoction Effect Supplements qi and blood, Contains Carbohydrates, protein, fat; moves qi; strengthens brown rice contains vitamin nerves, muscles, and sinews; B1, B2, B3, and E, iron, potas- dispels dampness sium, all essential amino acids, linoleic acid Preparation Decoction, ground, as methods porridge, or rolled oats Contains Especially valuable protein Indications (contains all essential amino Spleen and stomach vacuity:

acids), fat, vitamin B1 and B2, General lack of strength, lack of appetite, nau- calcium, iron, manganese, sea, vomiting, morning sickness, diarrhea silicon, zinc Cook short-grain (glutinous) rice in c desired amount of water. Indications Good for infants and children with General qi, blood, and yang vacuity nausea and vomiting: At first, drink only the Exhaustion boiled rice liquid, later eat the rice, possibly Recovery after extended, chronic, draining ill- sweetened with honey or licorice. nesses General physical lack of strength, especially in Heat symptoms due to stomach yin vacuity: pale, weak children and elderly people Thirst, dry mouth, restlessness, insomnia (stabilizes mood swings) Freshly cooked oat porridge daily, c or cooked oatmeal with raisins. !Rice (along with millet) is recommended for strengthening the stomach and spleen network Contraindications (short-grain, glutinous rice especially supple- Use cautiously for heat symptoms ments qi). Consumed in excess, oats can produce anxiety, Short-grain (glutinous, sweet, or sticky) rice, with nervousness, sleep disturbances (“feeling one’s its warming thermal nature, is very suitable for oats”). supplementing qi and blood. Grains and Soy 117

Basic recipe for congee: Spelt c (Anglo-Indian: Rice pudding or rice porridge. In Chinese, this dish Thermal is called “shi fan” or “water rice”; the main nature Neutral to cool ingredients are rice and water.) Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, stomach, liver Add one cup of rice (or possibly other grain) to six to ten cups of water. Boil briefly, then Direction Downbearing simmer on low heat for about four to six hours. Phase Earth Effect: Strengthens qi of center burner. This effect can be modified by adding other foods or Effect Similar to wheat (according herbs (see also below). to TCM), with a slightly more warming thermal nature Examples (less tendency to form Mung bean congee: Cools, lowers fever, especially dampness and phlegm from summer heat. symptoms). More robust in its cultivation (grown with- Chestnut congee: Strengthens kidney network. out synthetic agricultural chemicals), valued for its purity Wheat congee: Strengthens liver yin, cools and lowers fever, calms and stabilizes mood. Preparation Ground coarsely, ground as methods flour, as porridge, flakes, as decoction Contains Carbohydrates, protein, Rye starch. fat, lecithin, vitamin B1 and B2, zinc, silicic acid, Thermal unsaturated fatty acids nature Neutral to cool Flavor Bitter Indications Organ network Gallbladder, liver, spleen, Similar to wheat. heart Due to its purity, spelt is the preferred grain in Direction Upbearing some dietary plans for allergies and skin disorders. Phase Fire Effect Dispels dampness, supports first and foremost the secretion of fluids (diuretic) Preparation Cooked as decoction, methods porridge, flour Contains Protein, starch, fat, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, high in lysine, B-vitamins

Indications Phlegm and fluid accumulation 118 Food Classification

Soybean, Black Wind–dampness disorders (damp impediment, shi bi): Thermal Rheumatic (arthritis) pain, aching joins, muscle nature Neutral pain that worsens with external dampness and wind Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, kidney Contraindications Excess weakens spleen and can cause phlegm dis- Direction Upbearing orders Phase Earth (water) Effect Supplements spleen and kidneys, nourishes kidney yin, moves blood, dispels wind, Soybean, Yellow dispels dampness, detoxifies; strengthens spleen, Thermal Neutral, tendency toward supplements blood and qi, nature warmth; roasted: hot clears heat and drains yang; Flavor Sweet moistens dryness and supports the excretion of water; Organ network Stomach, spleen, large used to treat bloating in intestine abdomen, diarrhea, malnu- Direction Downbearing trition in children, severe emaciation, allergies, and Phase Earth skin rashes Effect Supplements spleen, qi, and Preparation As a decoction, boiled, blood, downbears qi, moist- methods soaked in alcohol ens dryness, secretes fluids, detoxifies Contains Rich in protein, fat and carbohydrates; phosphorus, Preparation Boiled, powdered, or as

iron, vitamin B1 and B2 methods decoction Contains High in protein, very suitable for treatment of malnutri- Indications tion. Fats, unsaturated fatty Spleen vacuity: acids, phosphorus, iron, Water accumulation, edemas, feeling of oppres- calcium, carotene, vitamin sion, heavy limbs, bloating B1, B2, and B12 folic acid, lysine, lecithin Soybean decoction c (200 g = about 0.5 lb) Indications Kidney vacuity, especially kidney yin vacuity: Weakness of stomach and spleen with qi and Weakness in lower extremities, hearing loss, blood vacuity: premature graying of hair, thirst, dry eyes, Fatigue, lack of strength, cool extremities, lack of blurry vision, night sweat, low back pain appetite

Roast black soybeans (200 g = about c 0.5 lb) in a dry pan at low tempera- c Warm soymilk ture until fragrant. Pickle in rice wine for several days, remove beans, and drink 100 Water accumulations, edemas, bloating due to mL (about one half cup) of the liquid twice daily. spleen weakness Disharmony in large intestine: Acute and chronic indigestion, diarrhea, swell- Grains and Soy 119

ing in abdomen, abdominal distension, espe- Boil 0.5 L (two cups) water with two cially in toddlers tablespoons coarsely ground wheat c After consumption of spoiled foods for 30 minutes, possibly sweeten with licorice; drink while warm. Soy beans are high in valuable protein with all !essential amino acids and high-quality fatty Internal heat conditions with emotional and psy- acids. Soy milk and soy bean products are a pre- chological symptoms: ferred treatment for people with skin disorders Agitation, anxiety, hysteria, internal restless- and allergies, provided they do not have soy aller- ness, irritability, insomnia, unstable emotional gies or intolerances. state, tendency to sadness

Contraindications Decoction of wheat (220 g or 0.5 lb), Excessive consumption leads to: c Jujube (Chinese dates, 50 g, about Qi stagnation in abdomen, abdominal distension 1.5 oz), licorice (18 g, about 0.5 oz); and possibly formation of dampness and drink warm, twice daily. Wheat is well suited for phlegm “inner” emotional stabilization! (Caution: phlegm disorders).

Liver heat, for example due to ascending liver Wheat yang or liver fire flaming upward: Irritability, disturbed sleep, restlessness, head- Thermal Cool, aches, dizziness, tinnitus, reddened itchy eyes nature tendency to cold Flavor Sweet Freshly ground, cooked wheat porridge (50 g or about 1.5 oz) daily, Organ network Heart, liver, spleen, kidney c no meat for one to two weeks, and Direction Downbearing avoid thermally hot foods, for example acrid spices, alcohol. Phase Earth

Effect Clears heat, supplements Liver blood vacuity and blood heat: spleen and kidney, nourishes Itching skin disorders, allergies heart yin, builds qi and blood Menopause: when combined with warm For hot flashes or night sweats foods, relives thirst, diuretic Preparation Cooked coarsely ground, Contraindications methods finely milled, as porridge, or Excess wheat or wheat products (pasta) produces as decoction dampness and phlegm Contains Carbohydrates, protein, starch, fat, lecithin, vitamin Wheat flour, wheat bran, or wheat germ have B-complex, E, beta-carotene, !significant differences in thermal nature: biotin, folic acid, selenium, natural estrogen Wheat flour Warm, can cause heat symptoms if eaten in excess Indications Wheat germ Cold General heat symptoms: Wheat bran Cool to cold Dry mouth, fever, sweating. Well suited for lowering fever in infants and toddlers. Wheat supplies the body with strength and !endurance. 120 Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments

Sweeteners are warm in thermal nature and sweet Chili in flavor. Spices are usually warm to hot in thermal nature and acrid in flavor. Thermal Due to their warming effect, sweeteners and nature Hot spices support the center burner and activate the Flavor Acrid digestive organs. Spices are well suited for “warming” the thermal nature of cool or cold foods. This Organ network Stomach, spleen, heart makes them valuable especially during the cold Direction Upbearing weather months, or for qi or yang vacuity of the digestive organs. Phase Fire Excessive consumption of spices can easily cause Effect Dissipates cold, warms heat symptoms, and when occurring over a longer center burner, dissolves food period, can be partially responsible for yin vacuity. stagnation, sweat produc- To treat repletion (robust person; loud, power- ing, dries dampness ful voice; sensation of heat, hyperactivity, cho- Preparation Mainly as a seasoning; raw, leric features, extroverted, tongue with thick fur, methods fried, in soups replete pulse): Avoid hot spices, or use extremely sparingly (caution with garlic, ginger, Contains Rich in capsaicin and 2H- capsaicin, essential oils, cinnamon). vitamin C, A, and E, To treat vacuity (weak person; weak, quiet phosphorus, calcium voice; shivering, often tired and exhausted, introverted, swollen tongue, weak pulse): Mix fortifying foods with warming spices: garlic, Indications fennel seeds, cinnamon, ginger. Wind–cold disorders: To treat heat (red face, thirst for cold drinks, Flu, common cold, with aversion to cold; shiver- worsening of condition and pain with heat, red ing tongue, rapid pulse): Avoid hot and warm spices External wind–cold and wetness influences, as completely! well as cold obstructions: To treat cold (shivering, aversion to cold, wors- Rheumatic disorders or arthrosis worsened by ening of condition and pain with cold, pale, external wind–cold influences swollen tongue; weak, slow pulse): Season Stagnation of cold wetness in center burner: foods well, for example with pepper, garlic, gin- Lack of appetite, fatigue and exhaustion, sensa- ger, cinnamon, chili, fennel seeds. tion of heaviness and muscle pain in extremities To treat dampness (general sensation of heavi- Cold in stomach and spleen: ness, pathological swelling, edema; chronic Decreased appetite, sensation of cold in stom- phlegm disorders, e.g., frontal sinusitis, bronchi- ach, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting tis): Fresh ginger. To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips, and chapped Contraindications hands; dry mucous membranes): Avoid hot and Generally, all hot chilies and peppers should be warm spices and seasonings completely! used sparingly. They are, however, very well suited as seasoning to supply dishes with a warming effect, if used in focused applications and in moderation. Restraint is advised for patients with general yin vacuity and heat symptoms, such as dry eyes, ulcers in mouth area, ulcers in digestive tract, and hemorrhoids. Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments 121

Cinnamon Coriander

Thermal Green leaves, stems, roots, and dried seeds of plant nature Warm to hot Flavor Acrid Thermal Warm nature Organ network Stomach, spleen, liver, kidney Flavor Acrid Direction Upbearing Organ network Lung, spleen Phase Earth, metal (depending on Direction Upbearing sources) Phase Metal Effect Warms center burner, Effect Well suited for warming dissipates cold, moves foods; dissipates cold, blood, loosens stagnation; produces perspiration, can promote the secretion of balances qi, disperses blood digestive juices and alleviate stasis, loosens digestive bloating. obstruction, reverses Preparation As seasoning or in seasoning counterflow qi methods mix, powder, decoction, or Preparation Use leaves, stems, roots, or in pill form methods dried seeds in soups; as Contains About 2 % cinnamon oil and salad, or as a seasoning; 90 % cinnamon aldehyde and should not be cooked too resins long to retain warming effect Contains Essential oils, bioflavonoids, Indications protein, vitamin C, and Stomach and spleen vacuity: calcium Lack of appetite Cold symptoms, cold in stomach and spleen with sensitivity to cold, abdominal pain, nausea, Indications vomiting, and diarrhea Cold and disharmony in stomach and spleen: Pain caused by stagnation due to cold or pain due Lack of appetite, nausea, indigestion, digestive to wind–cold or blood stasis: stagnation due to cold influences in abdomen Abdominal pain (e.g., after childbirth), rheumatic pain (caused by wind–cold and damp- Add coriander as a seasoning ness) to dishes. c Wind–cold disorders: Common cold, flu Wind–cold disorders: General yang vacuity, spleen yang vacuity, or kid- Colds, flu with aversion to cold, chills, low-grade ney yang vacuity: fever, little sweat Cold extremities, aversion to cold, shivering, cold in lower part of the body, impotence, pain Decoction of green onions, in back and knees, abdominal pain that worsens c coriander seeds, and ginger. with cold

Contraindications Contraindications Heat symptoms due to yin vacuity Use with caution in cases of: Restricted use during pregnancy General qi vacuity or foul-smelling perspiration 122 Food Classification

Ginger, Fresh or Dried Chewing a small slice of fresh or c crystallized (candied) ginger is a Thermal Warm (dried ginger is great remedy for motion sickness nature warmer) and morning sickness. Flavor Acrid (dried ginger is more Cold, flu caused by wind–cold: acrid) Chills, aversion to cold, arthritis/joint pain, Organ network Lung, stomach, spleen headaches, stuffed up nose Direction Upbearing Decoction of fresh ginger and green Phase Metal c onions: Effect Strengthens center burner, Simmer thumb-sized pieces of ginger controls nausea, frees and green onions in 0.5 L (two cups) of water for surface from pathogenic 10 minutes; drink warm decoction immediately wind–cold factors (supports at the first sign of a cold . stomach qi in the Greater Yang layer (tai yang), sweat- Cold in lung or cold phlegm: producing, relieves retching, Cough, shortness of breath, clear, white phlegm transforms phlegm, supplements lung, relieves cough Decoction of fresh ginger with malt and detoxifies; stimulates sugar (or raw cane sugar or blood circulation, increases c appetite, and promotes molasses): Combine about 50 g secretion of digestive juices (1.5 oz) of ginger and 30 g (one to two tablespoons) of malt sugar into a decoction and Preparation Fresh ginger (purple ginger drink warm. method is milder and is often eaten as a vegetable); dried ginger Indigestion: flakes, chips, or powder; Vomiting and diarrhea after consumption of as juice or decoction spoiled foods Contains High in essential oils, starch and amino acids, amaroids Freshly grated ginger, (bitters), gingereol = cardio possibly as a tea. tonic agent (activates Ca2+- c pumping ATPase in skeletal General cold symptoms: and cardiac sarcoplasmic Cold hands and feet, rheumatism (arthritis) that reticulum) worsens with wind–cold

Dried ginger (powder, chips, or candied) is clas- Contraindications !sified as hotter than fresh ginger in thermal General yin vacuity and heat signs nature. High blood pressure

Indications Prolonged consumption of larger amounts of Stomach and spleen vacuity, disharmony of stom- !ginger should be avoided. Excess can provoke ach qi (wei qi bu he), stomach qi upbearing heat phlegm disorders. counterflow (wei qi shang ni): Nausea and vomiting Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments 123

Garlic c Garlic raw or braised Thermal Cooked: warm nature Intense watery diarrhea Raw: hot Flavor Raw: acrid Garlic syrup: Chop one clove of garlic, mix with one Gently cooked: sweet–acrid c tablespoon of lemon juice and Organ network Lung, stomach, spleen one tablespoon of honey. Take this Direction Upbearing mixture three to five times a day. Phase Earth Cold, cough, or whooping-cough, chronic and Effect Warms center burner, acute bronchitis strengthens stomach, moves qi, disperses blood stasis and Decoction of garlic, ginger, qi stagnation in abdomen, and sugar. dispels cold, detoxifies, c antiparasitic, relieves cough Parasite infestation, especially hookworms and Preparation Raw, gently braised (on low pinworms (enterobiasis, oxyuriasis) methods heat), as a juice or decoction Contains High in essential oils, mainly 10–15 g (0.5 oz) steamed garlic allicin (antibiotic effect), c with sunflower seeds. protein, calcium, vitamin B1 and C, carotene Prophylaxis for flu, hypertension (high blood pressure) and hyperlipidemia

Raw garlic is significantly more acrid and is Contraindications !classified as thermally hot, while gently braised Heat symptoms garlic develops a sweet flavor and is classified as General yin vacuity having a warm/hot thermal nature. Thrush (aphtha)

Indications In Western medicine, the regular intake of gar- Cold symptoms and digestive obstructions in !lic shows a positive effect on stomach center burner: peristalsis and secretion. Garlic glycosides can Pain in abdomen and solar plexus (epigastric) lower blood pressure and can decrease blood region lipids and thus may be good prevention for arteriosclerosis. Garlic also has a known antibacterial Garlic cloves pickled in vinegar, and antiparasitic effect. c about half a clove once daily Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dysentery, also in connection with intake of contaminated food 124 Food Classification

Mushrooms Pepper (Seasoning)

Thermal Thermal nature Cool to cold nature Hot Flavor Sweet Flavor Acrid Organ network Stomach, spleen, lung Organ network Stomach, spleen, large intestine, lung Direction Downbearing Direction Upbearing Phase Earth Phase Metal Effect Support center burner, balance qi, moisten dryness, Effect Warms center burner, transform phlegm dissipates cold, regulates qi, disperses blood stasis, Preparation Boiled, steamed, or pow- reduces counterflow qi, methods dered eliminates phlegm, relieves Contains Protein, fat, calcium, pain, produces sweat, potassium, phosphorus, dispels wind–cold, disperses iron, zinc, magnesium, qi stagnation and blood sta- vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and sis. In small amounts, pepper K, essential amino acids, promotes secretion of dietary fiber, high purine digestive juices, increases concentration (contra- appetite, and alleviates indicated for people suffer- bloating. ing from gout) Preparation As a seasoning, decoction, methods powder, or pill Indications Contains Essential oils, piperine, Spleen and stomach qi vacuity: piperonal, calcium, iron Lack of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, reduced milk flow Indications Cooked mushrooms with chicken General spleen and stomach vacuity: c (or pork) Lack of appetite, indigestion, bloating Lung yin vacuity: Increase use of pepper Shortness of breath, dry cough with viscous c as a seasoning. phlegm Cold disorders of stomach and spleen: Contraindications Sensation of cold and pain in abdomen. Pain that Excessive consumption can lead to possible worsens with cold. heavy-metal exposure Decoction of pepper and ginger: c Simmer a pinch of freshly ground pepper and 30 g (1 oz) fresh ginger in water for 10 minutes. Drink while warm.

Cold phlegm disorders: Clear or white sputum Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments 125

Wind–cold disorders: Seaweed (General) Cold with cough, hoarseness, cold limbs. Rheu- matoid arthritis due to wind–cold influences Thermal nature Cold Contraindications Flavor Salty Heat symptoms due to general yin vacuity: Excessive consumption of pepper damages body Organ network Liver, lung, kidneys fluids (dehydrates) Direction Downbearing Phase Water Effect Clears heat, moistens Salt dryness, transforms phlegm, softens hardness, enriches Thermal yin, diuretic nature Cold Preparation Fresh or dried, boiled, as a Flavor Salty methods soup ingredient, as a decoction, as salad, as pill or Organ network Stomach, kidney, small powder intestine, and large intestine Contains 41 minerals and trace ele- Direction Downbearing ments, unsurpassed source

Phase Water of iodine, vitamin A, B1, B6, B , C, D, E, and K Effect Clears heat, cools blood, 12 moistens dryness, downbears qi, strengthens Indications kidneys, loosens phlegm Heat and phlegm in lung, bronciectasis or cough Preparation As seasoning, dissolved in with viscous yellow phlegm methods warm or hot water Following excessive alcohol consumption with heat symptoms Edema Indications Kidney yin and yang vacuity: Contraindications Supplements the kidney organ network when Seaweed should not be consumed in excess taken in moderation (iodine!) Fire flaming upward due to yin vacuity: Dizziness, headaches, red eyes, mouth and tongue ulcers, bleeding gums, constipation, hoarseness and sore throat

Half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in c warm water, taken before meals. Phlegm accumulation or hardness in body

Contraindications Shortness of breath Edema Diabetes mellitus High blood pressure 126 Food Classification

Soy Sauce Sweeteners:

Thermal Brown or Whole Cane Sugar nature Cold Made from the pressed juice of sugar cane. Prefer- Flavor Salty and sweet ably raw, unrefined, and made with whole sugar Organ network Spleen, stomach, kidney cane, without removal of molasses (e.g., Rapa- dura). Direction Downbearing

Phase Water Thermal Effect Clears heat, harmonizes nature Warm center burner, detoxifies Flavor Sweet Contains Protein, fat, glucose, Organ network Spleen, stomach, liver calcium, phosphorus, Direction Upbearing vitamin B1 and B2, niacin, iron Phase Earth Effect Supplements center burner, Indications supplements qi, disperses blood stasis, calms liver, Disharmony of stomach qi: moves and harmonizes Lack of appetite, nausea blood, relieves spasms and Heat symptoms: acute pain Agitation, nervousness Symptoms of stomach poisoning due to spoiled Preparation Dissolved in warm liquids, foods such as meat and fish methods in alcoholic beverages, as decoction

Contraindications Contains Sucrose, calcium, vitamin B2, Formation of phlegm possible with excessive iron consumption

Indications Stomach and spleen vacuity: Abdominal pain, for example with blood stasis, nausea, and vomiting

Decoction of brown sugar (100 g c or about 2.5 oz), fresh ginger (200 g or about 5 oz), and dried tangerine peels.

Blood stasis caused by cold: Painful menstruation, persisting and congesting lochia (postnatal discharge) following childbirth

Contraindications Dampness and phlegm disorders Damp–heat Dental cavities (caries) Spices, Herbs, Sweeteners, Condiments 127

Sweeteners: Honey External application: Chapped and dry lips, ulcers in mouth or lips, Thermal burns or frostbites nature Neutral Contraindications Flavor Sweet Dampness and phlegm disorders Organ network Spleen, lung, large intestine Stagnation in center burner Diarrhea Direction Upbearing Phase Earth Effect Supplements center burner, moistens dryness, moistens Sweeteners: Malt lung, relieves cough, relieves pain, moistens large intes- Sugar–Maltose–Malt Syrup tine, detoxifies Preparation Raw, as a seasoning in cook- Formed by enzymes or acid hydrolysis from starch methods ing, dissolved in warm water (grains or tubers). A natural sweetener usually made from grain (e.g., ground corn and sprouted Contains About 70 % fructose and glu- barley). Found in health-food stores, malt syrup cose, also protein, citric acid, has an earthy, full-bodied flavor and is 75–80 % as pectin; small amounts of vi- sweet as honey. Malt syrup is also referred to as tamin A, B1, B2, B6, C, and D, magnesium, calcium, potas- malt extract. sium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, copper, manganese Thermal nature Warm Flavor Sweet Indications Organ network Spleen, stomach, lung Stomach and spleen vacuity: Lack of appetite, fatigue, lack of strength, short- Direction Upbearing ness of breath, diarrhea with abdominal pain Phase Earth Dryness of lung: Dry cough with little sputum or with viscous Effect Warms and supplements phlegm, hoarseness, dry throat, chronic hacking center burner, moistens the lung, cough-relieving, and exhaustion cough removes dryness, relieves cramps and acute pain conditions, creates body c Steamed pear with honey fluids, detoxifies Dryness in large intestine with vacuity of body flu- Preparation Syrup or powder, dissolve ids due to heat: methods in water, as powder or decoction Constipation, especially constipation in elderly people Contains Maltose, vitamin B, iron

Mix honey with roasted black sesame; grind into porridge; dissolve Indications c Stomach and spleen vacuity: in warm water and drink. General fatigue, lack of appetite, lack of strength, Stomach heat: diarrhea Gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers Dryness and lung vacuity: Throat pain, hoarseness, cough with little sputum, shortness of breath 128 Food Classification

Steam white radish (500 g or about Vinegar c 1 lb) mixed with malt sugar (20 g or about one tablespoon), until sugar Thermal Warm has melted (or use malt syrup); eat nature while warm. Flavor Sour and bitter Contraindications Organ network Stomach, liver Dampness Moist–heat Direction Upbearing Bloating in abdomen with tendency to nausea Phase Wood and vomiting Effect Stops bleeding (hemostatic), disperses blood and qi stagnation, detoxifies, Sweeteners: White Sugar promotes digestion Preparation As a seasoning, diluted in Made by repeatedly refining and processing the methods water, as decoction juice of sugar cane, sugar beets, sorghum, or sugar Contains Acetic acid, acetal, oxalic maples. acid, acetaldehyde, minerals, acids, alcohols of higher Thermal quality nature Warm to neutral Flavor Sweet Indications Organ network Stomach, spleen, lung Blood stasis: Pain in abdomen, palpable hardness in abdomen Direction Upbearing Phase Earth Healing herbs brewed with vinegar. Effect Supplements center burner, c moistens lung, creates body fluids, alleviates acute pain Qi and blood stasis: Digestive obstruction caused by too much fatty, Preparation Dissolved in water oily food, meat, and fish methods Bleeding: Contains Sucrose Nosebleeds, bloody stool, bloody sputum

Indications Dryness in lung: Tip: Vinegar (as well as celery) is one of the few Dry cough, hoarseness foods that can treat qi and blood stasis. Look for Stomach yin vacuity: good quality! Thirst, dry throat Stomach and spleen vacuity: Painful solar plexus (epigastric) area, or after Contraindications alcohol excess Stagnation in center burner caused by dampness

Dissolve 30 g (1 oz) of sugar c in water. Contraindications Quickly leads to dampness and phlegm conditions, wet heat Weakens the kidney network (caries, bones) 129 Fruit

Fruits have a sweet, sour, and occasionally bitter Apple flavor. Their thermal nature is primarily cool to cold; for some types of fruit, it is neutral and Thermal warm. Fruit should be eaten primarily during the nature Sweet warm and hot seasons since it cools heat condi- Flavor Sweet and sour tions, replenishes body fluids, and moistens dryness. In TCM, fruit is a nutritional complement to Organ network Stomach, spleen, lung grains and supports the formation and preserva- Direction Downbearing tion of body fluids. During the cold season, highly cooling fruit such as bananas, oranges, and lemons Phase Earth/wood should be avoided to prevent developing cold in Effect Clears heat, relieves the body. agitation, alleviates summer To treat repletion (robust person, loud powerful heat, creates body fluids, voice, sensation of heat, hyperactivity, choleric moistens the lung, relieves features, extroverted, tongue with thick fur, diarrhea, stimulates appetite replete pulse): Apple, citrus fruit, pineapple, Preparation Raw, cooked, as juice, tangerine. methods decoction, syrup, dried, as To treat vacuity (weak person, weak quiet voice, powder shivering, often tired and exhausted, intro- Contains Calcium, potassium, iron, verted, swollen tongue, weak pulse): Cherries, sodium, phosphorus, sulfur, red grapes. vitamin A, B1, B2, and C, To treat heat (red face, thirst for cold drinks, niacin, flavones, malic acid, worsening of condition and pain due to heat, red citric acid, pectin, tannin tongue, rapid pulse): Citrus fruit, kiwi, watermelon, pineapple, apple. To treat dryness (dry mouth and lips, chapped Indications hands, dry mucous membranes): Pear, banana, Heat symptoms: kiwi. Restlessness, thirst, or following excessive alcohol consumption

c Raw apples Yin vacuity: Lack of appetite, indigestion

Shredded apple, preferably slightly c heated or as a compote 130 Food Classification

Apricot Banana

Thermal Thermal nature Neutral to warm nature Cold Flavor Sweet and sour Flavor Sweet Organ network Stomach, lung Organ network Stomach, large intestine Phase Earth, wood Direction Downbearing Effect Creates body fluids, Phase Earth moistens lung, quenches Effect Clears heat, enriches yin, thirst and relieves cough moistens and detoxifies Preparation Raw, dried, as a decoction or intestines, creates body methods syrup fluids, moistens stomach Contains Very high in minerals and Preparation Raw or steamed trace elements, iron, methods potassium and beta- Contains 10 different vitamins and carotene; some silicic acid 18 (!) minerals and trace elements, especially potassium, magnesium, Tip: Due to their high iron content and warming calcium, high in pantothenic effect, apricots are recommended during preg- acid and folic acid; contains nancy. serotonin (good mood hormone!) Indications Stomach yin vacuity: Thirst, dry mouth Indications Heat disorders that damage yin, especially stomach yin: c Eat fresh apricots. Thirst, dry throat, restlessness, chronic dry cough, dry stools Heat and lung dryness with upbearing qi: Cough, shortness of breath, dry throat, dry cough with viscous phlegm, asthma symptoms c Raw bananas Raw apricots or syrup from apricots Dryness in small and large intestine: c preserved in honey. Constipation, bleeding hemorrhoids

Contraindications Raw bananas c Heat symptoms Diarrhea Contraindications Excessive consumption can damage teeth, Cold and vacuity symptoms in center burner !especially in children. Phlegm disorders Fruit 131

Cherry Medicinal cherry wine: c Cover 250 g (about 0.5 lb) of cherries Thermal for half a day with 0.5 L (two cups) nature Warm clear brandy; drink half a cup daily. Flavor Sweet Wind–dampness: Organ network Stomach, spleen (liver and Arthritis pain in lower half of body, rheumatism, kidney) gout, arthritis Direction Upbearing Cherry juice or Phase Earth c medicinal cherry wine Effect Supplements the center burner, qi, and blood; Liver and kidney vacuity or stagnation combined supplements and moistens with weak muscles, sinews and bones; weak- liver and spleen, disperses ness of limbs and restricted joint mobility blood stasis, dissipates cold, dispels wind–dampness Blood vacuity: Preparation Raw, as decoction, syrup, or Vertigo (dizziness), forgetfulness, heart palpita- methods preserved in alcohol tions, insomnia, restlessness, anemia during pregnancy Contains Beta-carotene, vitamin B1, B2, B3, and C potassium, calcium, iron, fruit acids, fruc- Medicinal wine made from cherries tose c and longans Cold disorders, especially in patients with a ten- Indications dency to feel cold Spleen and stomach vacuity, stomach yin vacuity: Exhaustion, lack of appetite, fatigue, dryness of Contraindications skin and mouth Exercise restraint with strong heat symptoms c Cherry decoction Liver and kidney vacuity: Weakness and pain in knees and hips, weakness and numbness in limbs 132 Food Classification

Grapefruit, Pomelo Grapes

Thermal Cool to cold Thermal nature (peel: warm) nature Neutral Flavor Sweet and sour (peel: sweet Flavor Sweet and sour and bitter) Organ network Spleen, lung, kidneys (liver) Organ network Stomach, lung (peel: Direction Downbearing and upbearing stomach–kidney– gallbladder) Phase Wood and earth Direction Downbearing Effect Supplements kidneys and liver, supplements qi, Phase Earth promotes blood formation, Effect Flesh: creates body fluids, creates body fluids, relieves thirst strengthens muscles, sinews, and bones; diuretic Peel: transforms phlegm, downbears qi and disperses Preparation Raw, as juice, decoction, or digestive obstructions methods preserved in alcohol Contains Vitamin C, beta-carotene, Contains Especially rich in glucose, potassium, calcium, various fruit acids, the amaroids (bitters) highest potassium content in fruit, iron, copper, bioflavonoids Indications Note: Raisins (dried grapes) have a higher Stomach yin vacuity: carbohydrate content and more iron and calcium Restlessness, thirst, following excessive alcohol than fresh grapes. consumption

Indications c Eat raw grapefruit flesh General liver and kidney vacuity: Weakness and pain in knees and hips, rheumatic Stomach qi upbearing counterflow: symptoms with joint pain, caused by wind– Nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, diarrhea, dampness and qi stagnation digestive obstruction Weakness and pain in spine, frailty

Simmer whole fruit, including peel, Medicinal wine made from grapes c add sugar or honey to taste. c and ginseng: Use only untreated fruit, preferably Soak equal amounts of fresh grapes from organic agriculture. (about 10 grapes) and ginseng root in 100 mL (half a cup) brandy for two to four days. Drink Phlegm disorder, especially of the lung: 20 mL (about two tablespoons) daily. Bronchitis with viscous, yellow phlegm Stomach and kidney yin vacuity: Grapefruit with honey for Dry mouth, thirst, agitation, lack of appetite c phlegm disorder with a deficiency in body fluids c Syrup made from grapes and honey Fruit 133

Qi and blood vacuity: Indications Agitation, dizziness, forgetfulness, night sweat, Heat symptoms: heart palpitations Thirst and dryness of the mouth

Raw or as a decoction; peel two to c Decoction or syrup from raisins c three kiwi and cut into small pieces, add honey and possibly some water and simmer gently Dried grapes (raisins) have a stronger strength- !ening effect on the kidney and liver and form qi Diabetes, restlessness and blood, while fresh grapes primarily create body fluids. c See above Disharmony in stomach and stomach qi upbear- Kiwi ing counterflow: Nausea, decreased appetite Thermal Cold nature Juice mixture of kiwi and ginger: Flavor Sweet and sour c Mix freshly squeezed juice of three kiwis and about one tablespoon juice Organ network Stomach, gallbladder of freshly squeezed ginger (squeezed sepa- (kidney) rately); drink juice in three portions throughout Direction Downbearing the day. Phase Earth, wood Micturition (urination) difficulties with heat and Effect Clears heat, creates body dampness symptoms: fluids, harmonizes stomach, Painful, sparse micturition, secretion of concre- downbears upbearing ments (stones or crystals in urinary tract) stomach qi, diuretic Contains Rich in vitamin C (about twice as much as in citrus Raw or as a juice fruit), some iron, c magnesium, proteopeptic enzyme actinidine Contraindications Cold disturbances of stomach and spleen Kiwis are believed to lower the carcinogenic !effect of nitrosamines in the body, as well as lowering cholesterol and glycerides. 134 Food Classification

Lemon constipation, inner tension, temporal headache, menopausal symptoms Thermal nature Cool to cold Decoction of lemon peels together with grapefruit peels moves and Flavor Sour c regulates liver qi. Please use only peel Organ network Stomach, liver, lung from organic lemons or grapefruit to prevent possible exposure to agricultural chemicals. Direction Contracting (astringent), downbearing Contraindications Phase Wood Stomach hyperacidity and gastric ulcers Effect Clears heat, quenches thirst, dispels summer heat, Lemons are four to six times more acidic than creates body fluids, !oranges. harmonizes stomach, and calms the fetus, transforms phlegm, relieves cough Preparation Raw, as juice, salted or Orange methods sweetened or as decoction; salted lemon loosens Thermal phlegm nature Cool to cold Contains High in vitamin C, also citric Flavor Sweet and sour acid, malic acid, saccharide, Organ network Stomach, gallbladder vitamin B1 and B2, calcium, phosphorus, potassium Direction Downbearing Phase Wood Indications Effect Cools, creates body fluids, Heat or summer heat symptoms or heat in stom- thirst-quenching, ach: downbears qi Thirst, agitation, sweating, nervousness Preparation Raw, as juice or decoction method Drink lemon juice mixed with sugar cane, raw cane sugar, or Rapadura; Contains Vitamin C, beta-carotene, c extremely high in Freshly squeezed lemon juice (one to bioflavonoids, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, two lemons daily) for scratchy and c saccharide, citric acid burning throat (external wind–heat); gargle. Indications Stomach qi upbearing counterflow: Stomach yin vacuity and heat in stomach: Nausea, vomiting, belching, lack of appetite Thirst, restlessness, after excessive consumption of alcohol

Salted lemon Fresh oranges or orange juice c with honey c Heat phlegm disorders: Bronchitis, sinusitis Rebellious stomach qi due to heat: Liver qi stagnation: Nausea, vomiting Irritability, mood swings, intercostal neuralgia, Fruit 135

Simmer one to two oranges (peeled) c and mix with honey c Eat fruit raw or steamed Heat accumulation in lower burner with painful Blood stasis: urination, fever, summer heat Painful menstruation Sweat-producing physical exertion Contraindications Contraindications Heat symptoms: General cold syndrome: Especially heat-related skin disorders, heat in Especially with qi vacuity or yang vacuity of blood stomach and spleen Cold disorders of lung High phlegm accumulation Pear

Thermal Peach nature Cool Flavor Sweet Thermal nature Warm to hot Organ network Lung, stomach Flavor Sweet–sour Direction Downbearing Organ network Stomach, large intestine Phase Wood, earth (liver) Effect Clears heat, moistens Direction Downbearing, upbearing dryness, creates body fluids, (not certain) transforms phlegm

Phase Earth Contains Beta-carotene, vitamin B1, B2, B3 (niacin), and B6, folic Effect Creates body fluids, acid, vitamin C, especially moistens intestines, moves rich in potassium; also blood, dissolves blood stasis, magnesium, calcium, iron, can soften hardness phosphorus, fruit acids, Preparation Raw, steamed, or dried tannin, hormone-like sub- methods stances Contains Ripe peaches are rich in vitamins A, B, and C beta- Indications carotene; also bioflavonoids, Heat syndrome with fluid vacuity: potassium, calcium, Restlessness, sleeplessness, dry mouth magnesium, iron, zinc. Heat symptoms in lung and small intestine: Very favorable potassium– Trouble swallowing, sore throat sodium ratio: invigorates kidneys c Pure pear juice Indications Stomach yin vacuity: Irritated, hoarse vocal chords, loss of voice, Thirst, dry throat, constipation dysphagia, dry cough Heat and dryness in large intestine: Constipation, especially chronic constipation in elderly people c Pure pear juice Dry, compact stool; constipation 136 Food Classification

One to two glasses of pure pear juice, at room tem- Contraindications perature, taken before noon Skin ulcers and eczema

Heat phlegm disorders of lung: Bronchitis, sinusitis with viscous yellow phlegm !Unripe, sour pineapples can damage teeth!

Mixture of pear juice (or concen- c trated pear syrup)and lemon juice, 200–700 g (one to three cups) daily; Plum loosens and transforms phlegm. Thermal Wind–heat symptoms in heart: nature Neutral to warm Thirst, mental restlessness, nervousness, and Flavor Sweet and sour anxiety Organ network Liver, kidney, stomach Direction Upbearing and downbearing Pineapple Phase Earth, wood, water Effect Clears liver heat, disperses qi Thermal stagnation and blood stasis, nature Neutral to cool creates body fluids, diuretic Flavor Sweet and sour Preparation Raw, dried, as a juice, or methods preserved in alcohol Organ network Stomach, gallbladder Contains Excellent potassium–sodium Direction Upbearing ratio, rich in iron, ideal Phase Earth calcium/phosphorus content, vitamin B1, B2, and Effect Disperses summer heat, C, minimal protein and fat creates body fluids, thirst- quenching, diuretic, promotes digestion Indications Liver stagnation and heat in liver: Preparation Raw, as juice or decoction Restlessness, irritability, constipation, tendency methods to outbursts of rage; subfebrile (lower than nor- Contains High water content, few mal) body temperature in the afternoon, night calories, potassium, calcium, sweat phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, valuable fruit acids, Drink fresh plum juice, possibly vitamin C, bromelain sweetened with honey enzyme (promotes digestion c of protein!) Stomach yin vacuity: Thirst, dry mouth Indications Heat symptoms and stomach yin vacuity: Thirst, dry mouth, nausea, lack of appetite, rest- Raw plums or plum juice lessness c Formation of ascites (abdominal fluids) due to liver disorders c Fresh pineapple or pineapple juice Micturition (urination) problems, dampness in body, fever Fruit 137

Contraindications Indications Excess Heat and summer heat symptoms, body fluids Weakens stomach and spleen injured by heat: Decreases appetite Thirst, restlessness, sweating. During summer Leads to diarrhea heat: Sweating, headaches, dry lips Possibly develops phlegm Eat about 500 g (1 lb) of watermelon c fresh or as juice (two cups), possibly mixed with tomato juice. Watermelon Heat or heart fire flaming upward: Thermal Thirst, mouth or tongue ulcers, mental restless- nature Cold ness, disturbed sleep (especially during sum- Flavor Sweet mer), dark urine, heart palpitations Moist–heat in lower burner: Organ network Stomach, heart, bladder Sparse, dark urine, painful urination Direction Downbearing Contraindications Phase Earth Vacuity and cold symptoms in spleen and stomach Effect Clears heat, relieves summer General accumulation of moisture heat, quenches thirst, relieves agitation, diuretic Preparation Raw, as a juice, decoction, or methods syrup Contains 95% water, high in potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, nickel, vitamin A and C, as well as sugar and amaroids 138 Food Classification

Meat and Poultry

Most types of meat are warm to hot in thermal Beef nature and are excellent for supplementing qi and yang. Meat should be eaten primarily during the Thermal cold seasons. Meat intensifies body energy and nature Warm, neutral provides the body with a degree of “aggressive- ness.” It is very suitable for quickly replenishing Flavor Sweet energy deficits (following heavy physical exertion, Organ network Spleen, stomach, in part also after childbirth, during recovery). Excess con- kidney sumption of meat pollutes the body with toxins Direction Upbearing and promotes phlegm disorders. To treat repletion (strong person, loud powerful Phase Earth voice, choleric features, extroverted, red tongue, Effect Supplements qi and blood, possibly thick fur): Avoid meat, no meat for four supplements stomach and to six weeks; increase grains, fruit, and vegeta- spleen, strengthens yang, bles. strengthens sinews, muscles To treat vacuity (weak person, weak, quiet and bones voice, often tired and exhausted, pale, swollen Preparation Boiled, steamed, tongue, weak pulse): Beef, chicken, pork, veni- methods fried/roasted, or in soup son. Contains Protein, fat, vitamin B and To treat heat (red tongue, rapid pulse, red face, 1 B2, calcium, phosphorus, reddened eyes, nervousness): No meat for four iron to six weeks; increase grains, fruit, and vegetables. To treat cold (pale, swollen tongue, weak, slow Indications pulse, shivering, aversion to cold, cold worsens Qi and blood vacuity: condition and pain): Above all venison, lamb, Lack of strength, weakness in knees and legs, game; also chicken, beef. spontaneous sweating, emaciation, especially To treat dampness (swellings, edema, chronic weakness caused by profuse bleeding after phlegm disorders [e.g., frontal sinusitis, bronchi- pregnancy or strong menstrual blood losses tis]): Avoid meat, no meat for four to six weeks; increase drying grains. Beef stock or beef stew combined To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips and skin; con- c with carrots, celery, spinach, man- stipation): Pork, increase grains, fruit and vege- gold chard; very good for supple- tables. menting blood, especially during and after pregnancy

Stomach and spleen vacuity: Lack of appetite, general weakness, lack of strength, bloating, diarrhea

Beef stock or beef stew combined c with carrots, leeks, and onions Contraindications Meat excess can cause moist–heat symptoms Exercise restraint also with heat in blood: Skin efflorescence with raised, itching red skin patches, skin ulcers Meat and Poultry 139

Beef Liver Chicken

Preferably from organically raised or grass-fed ani- Thermal mals nature Warm Flavor Sweet Thermal nature Neutral Organ network Stomach, spleen Flavor Sweet Direction Upbearing Organ network Spleen, liver Phase Earth Direction Upbearing Effect Supports and warms center burner, supplements qi and Phase Earth blood, enriches yang, Effect Supplements liver network, supports ying, supplements qi, and blood bone marrow, enriches kidney yin and yang Preparation Fried or boiled methods Preparation Boiled, steamed, methods fried/roasted, deep-fried, grilled, or in soup Indications Contains Protein, low in fat with Especially for blood vacuity: high-quality unsaturated Pale dull complexion, poor concentration, fatty acids, calcium, numbness, fatigue, heart palpitations, lack of phosphorus, iron strength Liver blood vacuity: Night blindness, hypomenorrhea (scant, brief Indications menstruation) or amenorrhea (lack of menstru- Qi vacuity: ation), blurred vision, dizziness, insomnia Pale face, fatigue, quiet voice, sweating during the day, lack of strength, easily exhausted Beef liver combined with Blood vacuity (generally associated with qi vacu- c green vegetables and green salads, ity): apple Dull, pale complexion; difficulty concentrating, numbness, muscle weakness, heart palpitations, amenorrhea (lack of menstruation) or hypomenorrhea (scant menstruation), general weakness, emotional instability, depression Qi and blood vacuity following childbirth: Lack of strength, postnatal depression, heart palpitations, dizziness, lack of milk flow after giving birth

Recipe for supplementing qi and c blood during pregnancy to prevent blood vacuity: Combine fresh chicken with carrots, parsley, a small amount of fresh ginger, possibly egg yolk, soybean sprouts, and water. Simmer for about three hours or more. Eat three to four times a week.

Stomach qi and spleen qi vacuity: General lack of strength; loss of strength follow- 140 Food Classification

ing long, draining illness; infirmity in old ness, numbness in extremities, muscle weak- age, decreased appetite, indigestion, diarrhea, ness edema Stomach cold or spleen yang vacuity: Steamed or fried chicken liver Sensation of cold in body, especially in stomach c combined with lamb’s lettuce (Mache region, cold extremities, lack of appetite lettuce), spinach, arugula, parsley, General vacuity of kidney network: and mangold chard Weakness and pain in knees and hip, premature ejaculation, tinnitus, frequent urination

Chicken boiled in rice wine Duck with ginger and pepper c Thermal nature Neutral to cool Contraindications Flavor Sweet and salty Restraint with general heat symptoms, especially heat in blood: Organ network Lung, kidneys, stomach, spleen Skin disorders with reddened, raised, itching efflorescence Direction Upbearing Restraint during beginning colds: Phase Earth Pulls pathogenic factors into deeper layers Effect Nourishes yin, supplements blood, strengthens stomach, moistens lung, clears heat, Chicken Liver diuretic, reduces swelling. Preparation Fried, boiled, steamed, or as Preferably from organically raised animals. methods soup

Contains Protein, fat, iron, vitamin B1 Thermal and B2 nature Warm Flavor Sweet Indications Organ network Kidney, liver General yin vacuity with heat symptoms, espe- Direction Upbearing cially lung yin vacuity: Subfebrile temperatures, thirst, agitation, night Phase Earth sweat, dry mouth and throat, persisting cough Effect Supplements liver, kidneys, with little phlegm qi, and blood Preparation Steamed, fried, or grilled methods c Braised or boiled duck Contains Protein, rich in vitamins and minerals Spleen vacuity with fluid accumulation and edema:

Indications Braised duck stuffed with about Kidney yang vacuity: c half a cup of fresh ginger and one to Weakness, back pains, impotence, nocturnal uri- three cloves of garlic to taste nation, cold extremities Kidney blood vacuity: Blood vacuity and general yin vacuity with yang Night blindness, insomnia, blurred vision, dizzi- hyperactivity: Following high blood loss, for example after Meat and Poultry 141

childbirth; blurred vision, heart palpitations, Blood vacuity with cold symptoms after child- sleep disturbances, headaches, rotatory vertigo birth: Abdominal pains, reduced milk flow, cold lower Duck and chicken soup extremities c with parsley and 50 g (about 2 oz) Lamb with fresh ginger of brown seaweed (dry weight) Stomach and spleen yang vacuity: Contraindications Lack of appetite, exhaustion, persistent chills, Qi stagnation cold extremities, fatigue Spleen vacuit Contraindications Heat symptoms: Agitation, insomnia, reddened itching skin dis- Lamb, Mutton, Sheep orders, excessive menstrual bleeding

Thermal nature Warm to hot Flavor Sweet Pork

Organ network Spleen, kidney Thermal Direction Upbearing/floating nature Neutral Phase Earth Flavor Sweet, salty Effect Warms center burner and Organ network Spleen, stomach, kidney kidney network, supple- Direction Downbearing ments qi and blood, supports jing Phase Earth, water Preparation Steamed, fried/roasted, Effect Enriches yin, moistens methods grilled, boiled dryness, supplements blood Contains Protein, fat, calcium, Preparation Boiled, fried/roasted, grilled, phosphorus methods or as soup Contains Protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, iron Indications Lamb is especially recommended during the cold months as a warming food, served well Indications spiced. Qi and blood vacuity: Very good for kidney yang vacuity: Emaciation, lack of strength, muscle weakness Feeling of coldness in body, cold extremities, Liver and kidney yin vacuity: aversion to cold, weakness or pain in legs, back, Dry eyes, night sweat, hypomenorrhea (scant or knees, increase of symptoms with cold, weak menstruation), weakness and pain in hip, back, libido, impotence, frequent nocturnal urination and bones with clear urine Dryness: Thirst, dry cough, mouth and throat dryness, dry Lamb fried/roasted, grilled or well- skin c cooked in liquid with ginger, Chinese leek (garlic chives), walnuts, garlic, Contraindications and carrots, preferably seasoned Excessive consumption leads to obesity with rosemary, thyme, and oregano Excessive consumption promotes the formation of dampness and phlegm 142 Food Classification

Avoid with heat phlegm disorders: Venison (Deer) Bronchitis, sinusitis Avoid with qi stagnation Thermal nature Warm, hot Flavor Acrid, sweet Rabbit/Hare Organ network Kidney Direction Upbearing/floating Thermal nature Cool, neutral Phase Earth; ambiguous, depending on source Flavor Sweet Effect Strengthens qi, blood, and Organ network Liver, large intestine, yang, especially kidney yang, stomach, spleen moves blood Direction Floating Preparation Fried/roasted, braised, or Phase Earth, ambiguous, methods boiled depending on source Contains Protein, fat, minerals Effect Supplements center burner, supplements qi, cools blood Preparation Boiled, fried/roasted, or Indications methods steamed Venison is an excellent tonic for the kidney net- Contains Rich in protein, minerals, work to strengthen kidney yang; it is primarily little fat suitable for the cold season diet. General qi and blood vacuity: Especially lack of strength, emaciation, fatigue Indications Kidney yang vacuity: Stomach spleen qi vacuity: Aversion to cold, constant chills; weakness and Fatigue, lack of strength, lack of appetite pain in lower back, knees and legs with worsen- Heat in stomach and large intestine: ing of symptoms with cold; weak libido, impo- Constipation, nausea, vomiting, ravenous appe- tence, frequent nocturnal urination tite Stomach yin vacuity: Braised venison in red wine Constipation, lack of appetite, mouth dryness c with garlic or ginger, carrots, and walnuts Contraindications Cold symptoms in stomach and spleen Contraindications Exercise caution with heat symptoms based on a yin vacuity to avoid yang hyperactivity: Agitation, insomnia, sexual hyperactivity, sudden sweating, migraines, or irregular and strong menorrhagia (excess/prolonged menstruation) 143 Fish/Sea Food

Fish (sweet water) often has a sweet/salty flavor Anchovies and a neutral to warm thermal nature. It is easy to digest and strengthens qi, blood, and yang, espe- Thermal cially the center burner (stomach, spleen/pan- nature Neutral creas) and the kidneys. Flavor Sweet, salty Seafood (fish and shellfish from the ocean) is mostly salty and has a cool to cold thermal nature. Organ network Stomach, spleen It affects the liver and kidney network and nour- Phase Earth ishes yin. To treat repletion (strong person, loud powerful Effect Supplements qi and blood, voice, choleric features, extroverted, red tongue, warms stomach and spleen possibly thick fur): Squid/octopus. Preparation Deep-fried, fried, grilled, To treat vacuity (weak person, weak quiet voice, methods boiled often tired and exhausted, pale, swollen tongue, Contains Protein, fat, vitamin B1 and weak pulse): Eel, sardines, mussels, oysters. B2 To treat heat (red tongue, rapid pulse, red face, reddened eyes, nervousness): Squid/octopus. To treat cold (pale, swollen tongue, weak, slow Indications pulse, shivering, aversion to cold, worsening of Qi and yang vacuity of stomach and spleen: condition and pain with cold): Trout, salmon, Lack of appetite, lack of strength, indigestion prawns, crayfish. To treat dampness (swellings, edema, chronic Contraindications phlegm disorders, frontal sinusitis, bronchitis): Heat conditions: Carp, mackerel. Especially skin disorders To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips and skin, constipation): Oysters. 144 Food Classification

Carp Crab

Thermal Thermal nature Neutral nature Cold Flavor Sweet Flavor Salty Organ network Spleen, kidney Organ network Liver, stomach Direction Downbearing Phase Water Phase Earth Effect Clears heat, moves blood, strengthens muscles, Effect Supplements stomach and sinews, and bones spleen, supplements qi and blood, dispels dampness, downbears qi, reduces Indications swelling Blood stasis: Preparation Steamed, boiled Pain after injuries to muscles, sinews, and bones methods (swelling, tears, fractures) Abdominal pain following childbirth, to increase Contains Rich in protein and vitamin D blood circulation

Indications Soak and boil crab in rice wine Spleen qi vacuity and spleen yang vacuity: and eat throughout the day Swelling, edema c Qi and blood vacuity: Insufficient milk flow, during recovery, lack of Contraindications strength During pregnancy Lung network vacuity: Skin disorders Chronic cough, sensation of fullness in chest, shortness of breath

Contraindications Skin disorders Fish/Sea Food 145

Eel Herring

Thermal Neutral, warm Thermal nature nature Neutral Flavor Sweet Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, liver, kidneys Organ network Spleen, lung Direction Upbearing Direction Downbearing Phase Water Phase Earth Effect Supplements qi and yang, Effect Supplements qi of stomach, regulates wind and spleen, and lung dampness Preparation Deep-fried, fried, grilled, Preparation Fried, boiled, or in soup methods boiled methods Contains Protein, fat, minerals Contains Protein, high fat content, calcium, phosphorus Indications Qi vacuity of stomach and spleen: Indications Lack of appetite, weakness, chronic digestive Qi and yang vacuity: problems Weakness, exhaustion, shortness of breath Lung qi vacuity: Wind and dampness disorders: Rapid exhaustion, perspiring easily, shortness of Pain and swelling in extremities, weakness in breath legs and hips (rheumatic complaints caused by wind–dampness) Contraindications Skin disorders Cook eel in rice wine with salt, c vinegar, and a little fresh ginger Mackerel Contraindications Phlegm disorders Thermal Neutral Diarrhea caused by spleen and stomach vacuity nature Flavor Sweet Organ network Stomach, liver Direction Floating Phase Earth Effect Supplements qi and blood, removes dampness

Indications Swelling, edema, rheumatism (damp impediment or shi bi) 146 Food Classification

Mussels Indications Yin vacuity: Thermal Warm, neutral Sleep disturbance, nervousness, fluid vacuity, nature blood vacuity, excessive perspiration, night sweats, excessive alcohol consumption Flavor Salty Kidney network vacuity: Organ network Liver, kidney Exhaustion, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhea (involuntary discharge of semen) Direction Downbearing

Phase Water Contraindications Effect Enriches yin and yang of liver Skin disorders and kidneys, nourishes jing and blood

Indications Prawns/Crayfish/Lobster Kidney yang vacuity: Thermal Impotence, back pain, weak back nature Warm

Mussels cooked in wine or rice wine Flavor Sweet c with onions, leeks, carrots, garlic, Organ network Kidney, liver and pepper Direction Floating Yin vacuity: Phase Earth Nocturnal sweating and dizziness Effect Enriches yang, especially kidney yang; supplements qi and blood, dispels cold, disperses blood stasis, Oysters eliminates wind and phlegm Preparation Deep-fried, fried, grilled, Thermal Neutral methods boiled nature Contains Protein, minerals Flavor Sweet, salty Organ network Kidney, liver Indications Direction Downbearing Kidney yang vacuity: Phase Earth, water Impotence, premature ejaculation, weak libido, lack of strength, pain in lumbar region. Effect Supplements qi and blood, nourishes blood, enriches Prawns fried in alcohol with garlic, yin and yang of kidneys, ginger, and Chinese leeks (garlic moistens dryness, cools c blood. chives)

Preparation Raw, deep fried, simmered Qi and blood vacuity: methods in liquid After childbirth, stimulates milk flow and milk Contains Rich in minerals production

Contraindications Blood heat disorders: Can produce efflorescence with skin disorders Fish/Sea Food 147

Sardines Squid, Octopus

Thermal Thermal nature Neutral, warm nature Cold Flavor Sweet, salty Flavor Sweet, salty Organ network Stomach, spleen, kidneys Organ network Kidney, bladder, liver Direction Upbearing Direction Downbearing Phase Earth, water Phase Water Effect Supplements qi, yang, and Effect Nourishes yin, strengthens blood; warms stomach and blood and qi, clears heat spleen, supplements kidneys Preparation Deep-fried, fried, grilled, Preparation Deep-fried, fried, grilled, methods boiled methods boiled Contains Protein, fat, minerals Contains Protein, fat, minerals Indications Indications Yang vacuity and heat conditions rooted in liver Stomach and spleen vacuity: yin vacuity or kidney yin vacuity: Lack of appetite, lack of strength, indigestion, Dizziness, tinnitus, sudden profuse menorrhagia edema (menstrual bleeding), strong menstrual pain Kidney network vacuity: with light-red blood Impotence, decreased libido, back pain and Blood heat: weakness, sinew and bone weakness Itching skin disorders Stomach heat caused by liver repletion: c Grilled sardines with garlic Heartburn, gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers Contraindications Contraindications With heat symptoms avoid: Heat conditions Deep-fried, fried, or grilled Skin disorders 148 Food Classification

Trout Tuna

Thermal Due to its high degree of metal toxicity (higher nature Warm, hot than most other fish), tuna is not recommended Flavor Sweet during nutritional therapy, and possibly also after- ward. Organ network Stomach, spleen Direction Upbearing/floating Phase Wood Effect Enriches yang, regulates qi, dispels cold, warms stomach and spleen Preparation methods Boiled, grilled, fried Contains Protein, minerals

Indications Stomach and spleen vacuity: Lack of appetite, general weakness, bloating, diarrhea Qi and yang vacuity: Weakness, exhaustion, cold extremities, shortness of breath

Grilled trout with garlic c and almonds

Contraindications Wind–heat disorders Rashes 149 Dairy Products, Eggs, Oils, and Fats

Milk and dairy products are considerably less causes dampness and phlegm, or hot phlegm from prevalent in Chinese nutrition than in the Western deep-frying oils. world. They are sweet in flavor and neutral to cold Caution: Avoid dairy products and oils in case of in thermal nature; they moisten dryness and spleen qi and spleen yang vacuity! enrich yin. Excessive consumption, often found in To treat repletion (robust person, loud, power- our “modern diet,” can quickly lead to phlegm dis- ful voice, sensation of heat, hyperactivity, cho- orders (recurrent colds with phlegm production, leric features, extroverted, tongue with thick fur, frontal sinusitis, bronchitis, chronic headaches replete pulse): Yogurt in moderation. with heaviness and dull pressure). To treat vacuity (weak person; weak, quiet The center burner especially suffers when “over- voice; shivering, frequent fatigue and exhaus- fed” with dairy products, and produces dampness tion, introverted, swollen tongue, weak pulse) and eventually phlegm disorders in the body. (to treat yin vacuity): Butter, cream, cheese, Children are especially at risk from excess dairy milk, eggs. products, often in combination with other cold To treat heat (red face, craving for cold drinks; foods (citrus fruits and juices) and overly fatty, worsening of symptoms from cold; pale, swol- phlegm-forming foods (sugary sodas, junk food). len tongue; weak, slow pulse): Avoid dairy prod- In children under age eight, the center burner is ucts! not yet fully developed, which makes it difficult for To treat dampness (general sensation of heavi- them to compensate for excess cold, cool, dampness, pathological swelling, edema; chronic ness, and phlegm-producing foods. phlegm disorders, e.g., frontal sinusitis, bronchi- For cheeses, the harder a cheese, the less damp- tis, cysts, tumors): Avoid dairy products! ness, it will generate (if eaten in moderation!) and To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips, and chapped the warmer it is in temperature. Cottage cheese, skin; dry mucous membranes): Butter, cream, for example, is cool, while Parmesan is neutral to oils, cheese, milk. warm in thermal nature. Pasteurized dairy products are warmer in thermal Fats and oils are mostly of neutral thermal nature nature than raw milk, cream, or cheese made from when raw, but change to warm/hot when heated raw milk. Some nutritional components in milk (deep-frying). They moisten dryness (constipa- are lost when milk is heated above body tempera- tion) and nourish yin. Excessive consumption ture. 150 Food Classification

Butter and Cream Cow’s Milk

Butter produces less dampness than cream. Thermal nature Neutral, cool Thermal Flavor Sweet nature Warm, neutral Organ network Lung, stomach, heart Flavor Sweet Direction Upbearing Organ network Spleen, liver, lung, kidney, large intestine Phase Earth Direction Upbearing Effect Supplements qi, yin, and blood; supplements lung, Phase Earth stomach, and heart; creates Effect Supplements qi, yin, and body fluids, moistens blood; moistens dryness, intestine and skin, detoxifies disperses blood stasis Preparation Preparation methods Raw, boiled, in porridge methods Raw or in cooking Contains Rich in protein, minerals and Contains Rich in protein, fat, carbo- vitamins, calcium, phospho- hydrates, minerals rus, iron, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and C.

Indications Qi vacuity: Indications Fatigue, exhaustion, mental exhaustion General qi and blood vacuity: Yin vacuity: Weakness, mental exhaustion, dizziness, over- Dry mouth and throat, dry cough, dry skin, con- exertion, consumption (especially in old age) stipation, nervousness Milk porridge. Contraindications Simmer 100 g (half a cup) of cooked c Avoid with blood heat disorders: short-grain (glutinous) rice in about Itching skin disorders 0.5 L (two cups) of milk. Add cinna- Excess can weaken spleen and cause dampness mon and raisins. and phlegm disorders: More pronounced with cream Stomach yin vacuity: Dry mouth and throat, lack of appetite, constipation

Fresh milk boiled with a little c ginger juice Contraindications Excessive consumption of milk and milk products can easily weaken the stomach and spleen network and often leads to dampness and phlegm disorders, especially in children: Dull, heavy head, lack of concentration, chronic fatigue, loose stool, diarrhea, recurrent infections: colds, bronchitis, sinusitis, ear infections Dairy Products, Eggs, Oils, and Fats 151

Cow’s Milk Cheese Chicken Eggs

Thermal Neutral, cool Thermal Raw: neutral, cool nature (blue cheese: warm) nature Cooked: warm Flavor Sweet, sour Flavor Sweet Organ network Stomach, spleen, lung, liver Organ network Egg white: lung Direction Upbearing and downbearing Egg yolk: heart, kidney Phase Wood, earth Direction Upbearing Effect Supplements and moves qi, Phase Earth nourishes yin, moistens, laxative Effect Supplements qi and blood, nourishes yin, moistens, Preparation calms the fetus methods Raw or melted Egg white: moistens lung, Contains Rich in fat and protein, clears heat minerals Egg yolk: enriches yin and blood, moistens Indications Preparation Raw, boiled, fried, Yin vacuity, especially lung yin vacuity: methods scrambled Dry cough, sore throat, hoarseness, dry skin, Contains Rich in protein, fat, espe- night sweats cially lecithin, cholesterol Dryness in large intestine: and triglycerides, as well as Constipation vitamin A and D, iron, phosphorus Contraindications Cheese, especially blue cheese, can cause damp- Indications ness and phlegm disorders when eaten in excess Qi vacuity: (Egg yolk!) exhaustion, weakness, fatigue, during recovery, malnutrition Yin and blood vacuity: Nervousness, sleep disorders, heart palpitations, dizziness, night blindness Lung yin vacuity: Sore throat, hoarseness, dry cough, loss of voice Stomach yin vacuity: Lack of appetite Heat symptoms: (Egg white!) reddened eyes, strong movement of fetus, thirst after delivery

Contraindications Excess causes Wind disorders: Skin rashes Qi stagnation Moist–heat 152 Food Classification

Goat’s and Sheep’s Milk Goat’s and Sheep’s Milk Cheese Thermal nature Warm Thermal Flavor Sweet nature Warm, neutral Organ network Lung, stomach, in part heart Flavor Sweet, sour, salty and kidneys Organ network Stomach, spleen, lung, liver, Direction Upbearing heart, kidneys Phase Earth Direction Upbearing and downbearing Effect Warms and moistens Phase Wood, earth stomach and spleen Effect Supplements and moves qi, Preparation warms stomach and spleen, methods Raw or cooked nourishes yin Contains Rich in protein, fat, minerals, Preparation especially calcium and methods Raw or melted phosphorus Contains Rich in fat and protein, minerals Indications General qi vacuity: Indications Fatigue, weakness, indigestion, emaciation Stomach and spleen vacuity: Stomach yin vacuity: Indigestion Dry mouth and throat, lack of appetite, consti- Dryness in large intestine: pation Constipation

Contraindications Excessive consumption can cause dampness and phlegm disorders Dairy Products, Eggs, Oils, and Fats 153

Peanut Oil Sesame Oil

Thermal Thermal nature Neutral nature Cool Flavor Sweet Flavor Sweet Organ network Large intestine, lung, Organ network Large intestine, liver, kidney stomach Direction Downbearing Direction Upbearing Phase Earth Phase Earth Effect Moistens intestines, laxative, Effect Supplements center burner, detoxifies moistens lung and large Preparation As a seasoning or for salads, intestine, antiparasitic methods sparingly for occasional Preparation For frying and frying methods deep-frying Contains High in unsaturated fatty Contains High-quality essential fatty acids, lecithin, vitamin E acids, especially the heart- friendly linoleic acid, Indications B-vitamins Dryness in intestines: Constipation, digestive obstructions Indications Blood and qi vacuity of liver and kidney: Stomach spleen vacuity: Weakness in muscles, sinews, and bones Lack of appetite Dryness in lung or large intestine: Contraindications Dry cough with little sputum, constipation Excess Weakens the spleen/pancreas network Contraindications Can cause diarrhea Excess leads to formation of phlegm 154 Food Classification

Soybean Oil Yogurt

Thermal Thermal nature Warm nature Cool, cold Flavor Acrid and sweet Flavor Sweet, sour Organ network Large intestine Organ network Liver, lungs, large intestine (ambiguous, depending on Direction Upbearing sources) Phase Earth, metal Direction Downbearing Effect Moistens intestines, Phase Earth, wood disperses blood stasis, laxative, antiparasitic Effect Nourishes yin, clears heat, relaxes liver, moistens lung, Preparation For frying and quenches thirst methods deep-frying Preparation Contains High amounts of unsatu- methods Raw rated fatty acids, linolenic acid, oleic acid, rich in Contains Protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamin E; cold-pressed minerals soy bean oil is similar to wheat germ oil in potency and quality Indications Heat symptoms: Restlessness, nervousness, sleep disturbances, Indications thirst Constipation Stomach heat: Pain in epigastric region, gastritis, stomach ulcers, heartburn Heat in liver, upbearing liver yang: Restlessness, irritability, sudden temporal headaches, dizziness, red itching eyes Dryness and heat in intestine: Constipation External use: Skin eruption with itching, rough, dry skin from sunburn

Contraindications Cold symptoms in center burner Diarrhea If eaten in excess, risk of dampness and phlegm formation 155 Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are highly nutritious and mostly Almonds warm in thermal nature. They are ideal for building up qi and yang in the body. Nuts can quickly Thermal balance energy deficiencies (e.g., “energy balls” nature Neutral made with walnuts, honey, and coconut). Flavor Sweet To treat repletion (robust person; loud, powerful voice; sensation of heat, hyperactivity, cho- Organ network Lung, large intestine, spleen leric features, extroverted, tongue with thick fur, Direction Upbearing replete pulse): White sesame. To treat vacuity: (weak person; weak, quiet Phase Earth voice; shivering, frequently tired and exhausted; Effect Moistens lung, relieves introverted, swollen tongue, weak pulse): Wal- cough, transforms phlegm, nuts, peanuts, pine nuts, chestnuts. downbears qi, moistens To treat heat (red face, thirst for cold drinks, large intestine worsening of symptoms and pain from heat, red Preparation Raw, roasted, ground, tongue, rapid pulse): Avoid nuts and seeds, methods and as decoction instead choose fresh sprouts (mung beans). To treat cold (shivering, aversion to cold, wors- Contains Rich in fats, protein, calcium, iron, magnesium, phospho- ening of condition and pain from cold; pale, rus, potassium, relatively swollen tongue; weak, slow pulse): Walnuts, high amount of vitamin A; chestnuts. also C, B-complex, enzymes To treat dryness (dry mouth, lips and chapped with hormone character skin, dry mucous membranes): Sunflower seeds.

Indications Dryness and lung vacuity: Cough with breathing problems, wheezing, dry mouth and throat

Mix ground almonds, ground c walnuts, and honey dissolved in warm water

Dryness in large intestine: Constipation Spleen vacuity: Lack of appetite, lack of strength

Contraindications Dampness and phlegm disorders 156 Food Classification

Black Sesame Contraindications Diarrhea Thermal Neutral to cool; roasted Use cautiously with heat symptoms nature sesame is thermally much warmer than raw sesame Flavor Sweet Chestnut Organ network Liver, kidney Thermal Direction Downbearing nature Warm Phase Earth Flavor Sweet Effect Supplements liver and kid- Organ network Stomach, spleen, kidney ney, moistens dryness Direction Upbearing Preparation Raw, roasted, ground, methods cooked with liquid as Phase Earth porridge, as a seasoning, or Effect Supplements kidneys, made into butter supplements qi and blood, Contains Rich in essential fatty acids, disperses qi stagnation, carbohydrates, protein, dispels cold, strengthens phosphorus, vitamin E, sinews and muscles, bal- calcium, iron, phosphorus, ances stomach and spleen selenium, silicic acid, lecithin Preparation Raw, roasted, as porridge or methods decoction Indications Contains Less fat and protein than Liver and kidney vacuity: other types of nuts, also General lack of strength, weakness in knees and calcium, phosphorus, back, muscle pain, weakness in extremities, potassium, sulfur, magne- tinnitus, rotary vertigo, impotence sium, iron, carotene, vitamin

Blood vacuity and exhaustion of fluids: B1, B2, C, and E Postpartum lactation problems; dizziness, forgetfulness Indications Wind impediments (feng bi): Kidney vacuity: Rheumatic disorders (arthritis), dry cough, dry- Weakness and pain in hip, knees, and lower back ness in large intestine: constipation Roasted chestnuts or as a porridge Roasted sesame to strengthen blood with walnuts c and kidneys: c Roast black sesame in a dry pan until Yang vacuity of spleen and kidney: fragrant; eat one to two teaspoons Diarrhea, cold extremities, lack of strength, daily impotence, back pain

Black sesame porridge: c Mix 50 g (half a cup) of black sesame Roasted chestnuts seeds and 100 g (half a cup) of short- c grain (glutinous) rice with water and External application: simmer for about 20–30 minutes For injuries, swelling due to blocked blood flow

Balances liver and kidneys, strengthens muscles, Contraindications sinews, and bones, for weakness in arms, legs, and Excessive consumption leads to bloating and back abdominal distention Nuts and Seeds 157

Hazelnut Peanut

Thermal Thermal Neutral nature Neutral nature Raw: cool Roasted or boiled: warm Flavor Sweet Flavor Sweet Organ network Spleen, stomach Organ network Spleen, lung Direction Upbearing Direction Upbearing Phase Earth Phase Earth Effect Harmonizes center burner, regulates qi Effect Supplements center burner, harmonizes stomach, Preparation Raw, roasted, ground, moistens lung, relieves methods or as nut butter cough, promotes milk Contains High amount of fat, thus production, moistens large high percentage of intestine unsaturated fatty acids, Preparation Raw, roasted, boiled or protein, carbohydrates, methods ground calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, rich in Contains Extremely high protein and B-vitamins, vitamin C, fat content, rich in B-vita- tannins (stimulate skin and mins. Note: large amounts of intestinal function), high linoleic acid, vitamin E, lecithin content potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, most essential Indications amino acids—plenty of Spleen/pancreas organ network vacuity: tryptophane (important for Lack of appetite, fatigue sleeping!)

Indications Spleen vacuity: Lack of appetite, lack of strength

Decoction of 60 g (about one quarter c cup) each of peanuts, adzuki beans, and jujube beans boiled in water, taken throughout the day.

Dryness and lung vacuity: Dry cough with little sputum, dry throat, persistent cough

Mixture of peanut butter and c almond butter, mixed with honey Dryness in large intestine: Constipation Qi and blood vacuity: After childbirth with reduced milk flow 158 Food Classification

Contraindications Sunflower Seeds Excess produces dampness, phlegm, and diarrhea Thermal nature Neutral Flavor Sweet Pine Nuts Organ network Lung, large intestine Direction Upbearing Thermal nature Neutral, tendency to warm Phase Earth Flavor Sweet Effect Supplements spleen, enriches yin, moistens large Organ network Lung, liver, large intestine intestine Direction Upbearing Preparation Raw, roasted, or as oil Phase Earth methods Effect Moistens lung and large Contains Rich in fats and essential intestine, creates body flu- fatty acids, especially linoleic ids, expels wind and cold acid and lecithin, protein, carbohydrates, vitamin B , Preparation Raw, roasted, as a paste or 1 B , and D as well as calcium, methods pill 2 iron Contains Rich in essential fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, iron, Indications highest in vitamin B1 of all nuts Spleen/pancreas network vacuity: Lack of drive, lack of strength, diarrhea Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), high blood Indications pressure, arteriosclerosis (Western and Chinese Dryness and lung vacuity: medicine) Dry throat, cough with little or no phlegm, recurrent cough Contraindications Caution with heat symptoms Porridge of ground pine nuts (30 g or c about two tablespoons) and ground walnuts (60 g or about half a cup) mixed with honey (20 g or one teaspoon)

Dryness in large intestine: Constipation Wind impediment (feng bi) or internal liver wind: Rheumatism (arthritis), dizziness, drowsiness

Contraindications Excess can cause dampness and phlegm production 159 Alcoholic Beverages, Coffee, and Tea

Alcoholic Beverages effect. The colder seasons are preferable for treatments using alcohol. Thermal Dependent on alcohol con- nature tent: the more high-proof, Basic recipe for medicinal the warmer or hotter. wines/liqueurs: Brandy: hot c Wine: warm Immerse individual herbs or herb combinations Beer: cool, especially wheat in clear, high-proof alcohol (e.g., rice wine, gin, beer (during summer heat) vodka) for at least two weeks and up to several Flavor Acrid, sweet, and bitter months. Organ network Heart, liver, lung, stomach Direction Upbearing Example Ginseng liqueur (radix ginseng [Latin]/ Ren Chen Phase Metal [Chinese]). Effect Moves qi, moves blood, dis- Immerse root in clear, high-proof alcohol for at pels cold, disperses liver qi least six weeks; second brew possible. stagnation Preparation Consumed in small Contraindications methods amounts, for preserving and Liver yin vacuity seasoning foods Heat symptoms Damp–heat Contains Ethanol, fatty acid, acids, Regular excessive alcohol consumption damages possibly sugar qi, damages the spirit (shen), and destroys yin.

Indications Short-term qi vacuity: Fatigue, exhaustion (decoction of alcohol and radix ginseng) Blood stasis and cold: Cold extremities, shivering, pain in abdomen Blood vacuity: Pale complexion, insomnia, forgetfulness, fatigue (Red wine in moderation also strengthens kidney energy, pain and tension in lower back region) Liver qi stagnation: Mental and physical tension, depression, melancholy, dysmenorrhea (lack of menstruation) Invasion of wind–cold: Aversion to cold, shivering, pain in extremities, pain in chest and back

Alcohol balances qi, strengthens lung, spleen, and heart networks. In combination with the appropriate herbs, alcohol can have an accelerating and strengthening 160 Food Classification

Coffee Tea

Thermal The effect of tea depends on the type of tea, pro- nature Warm to hot cessing, and preparation. A basic distinction can be Flavor Bitter and sweet made between fermented black tea and unfer- mented green or white tea. Green tea is preferred Direction Upbearing for medicinal purposes in China. Phase Fire Thermal Green and white tea: Effect Warms and strengthens nature cool to cold; heart, stimulant, stimulates mental capacities, diuretic, Black tea: cool to slightly detoxifies after excessive warming alcohol consumption, dries Flavor Bitter and sweat out body fluids Organ network Stomach, lung, heart, Preparation Pour boiling water over kidneys methods ground coffee beans, possibly add milk and sugar Phase Wood, earth, fire (not clear) Contains Sucrose, polysaccharide, fat, Effect Clears heat, especially in protein, caffeine potassium head region; quenches thirst, diuretic, downbears qi, disperses digestive Indications obstruction, refreshes the General qi and yang vacuity: mind, transforms phlegm Fatigue, exhaustion, sensation of cold inside and dampness, detoxifies, body, headaches, dizziness, especially of the harmonizes stomach (black heart tea) After alcohol abuse Preparation Brewed, powdered, and as Spleen yang vacuity: methods decoction Fatigue, indigestion, cold extremities Contains Caffeine, tannins, essential Contraindications oils, vitamin C and carotene, vitamin B Coffee dries out body fluids, can lead to blood 1 and B2, minerals vacuity and, when consumed in excess, can permanently damage the kidney network. Indications Wind–cold disorders: Consumed in small amounts (about one to two Aching, itchy eyes; blurred vision, headaches, cups), coffee is therapeutic. heat sensation and dizziness in head Negative effects appear when overdosed or with Summer heat with strong thirst daily excessive consumption (four or more cups). Heat symptoms: Thirst, nervousness, agitation, after excessive Tip: To alleviate the diuretic, dehydrating effect alcohol consumption of coffee, drink a glass of water with each cup Damp–heat disorders: (“coffee culture” in Austria and Italy). Diarrhea or dysentery Damp–heat: Fatigue, exhaustion, heavy extremities Heat symptoms: Agitation, nervousness, after excessive alcohol consumption Alcoholic Beverages, Coffee, and Tea 161

Internal wind–heat: Sensation of heat in head, dizziness, blurred vision, headaches and aching eyes

Contraindications Cold and vacuity of stomach and spleen Sleep disturbances Excess dries out body fluids, especially blood (xue). Exercise caution with blood vacuity! Page intentionally left blank 5 Clinical Examples

Analogy of Western Diagnoses with Syndromes in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Respiratory Tract Disorders ...... 165 Gastrointestinal Disorders ...... 184 Cardiovascular Disorders ...... 203 Eye Disorders ...... 209 Skin Disorders ...... 210 Urogenital Disorders ...... 214 Gynecological Disorders ...... 218

Any form of treatment for the disorders above, including the use of nutritional therapy, needs to be preceded by a clear diagnosis by a trained TCM practitioner. Treatment should never take place without a prior consultation with the treating physician. The analogies between Western diagnoses and syndromes in TCM are not limited to the disorders discussed in this book. These are intended as a starting point for connecting Eastern and Western medical systems. Page intentionally left blank 165 Respiratory Tract Disorders

Main Symptom: Colds

Acute cases of flu Wind–cold fettering the lung (feng han shu fei) Acute bronchitis Wind–heat invading the lung (feng re fan fei) Bronchitis, sinusitis, with yellow secretion Phlegm–heat obstructing the lung (tan re zu fei)

According to TCM: Therapy Cough (ke sou) and phlegm–rheum (tan yin) develop through the assault of external pathogenic factors, Clear body surface mostly cold, which block the flow of qi. These primarily LU-7 BL-12 LI-4 occur due to lung, spleen, and kidney vacuity. p Expel wind and cold Nutritional therapy, along with acupuncture TB-5 GB-20 SI-14 !and herbal therapy, can produce very good p results during the onset, as well as the subsequent course of the disorder. a Avoid: Raw, cold, and cool foods, and dairy products (they ¢ Acute Case of Flu encourage phlegm disorders). Wind–Cold Fettering the Lung Recommended: (Feng Han Shu Fei) r Wind–Cold Cough (Feng Han Ke Sou) Thermal nature Hot and warm Symptoms Stuffy or runny nose, with clear, watery phlegm, Organ network Lung, spleen/pancreas sneezing, cough, aversion to cold, aching limbs, Direction Floating headache, sore throat. Tongue: Thin white fur Preparation methods Boiled, fried Pulse: Superficial, weak Flavor Acrid Causes Vegetables Green onions, coriander External invasion of wind–cold into the lung due to weak defense qi. Lung function and flow of qi Beverages Spiced tea, mulled wine, are impaired by cold. grog (beverage with rum, hot water, and sugar), whis- key Spices Aniseed, chili, ginger, garlic, pepper, rosemary, thyme (loosens phlegm, disinfects), cinnamon 166 Clinical Examples

Ginger tea: Therapy c Place thumb-sized pieces of ginger in 0.5 L (two cups) of water, simmer for Clear surface about 20 minutes; drink while warm; Dispel wind–heat add licorice for sore throat LU-5 LI-4 LI-11 GB-20 p BL-13 LU-11 (for sore throat) Mulled wine ST-40 (for secretion)

Spiced tea (Yogi tea with pepper, ginger, a Avoid: cardamom, and cinnamon) Warm and hot foods, dairy products (encourage congestion). At the first onset of sneezing, shivering, and !cold symptoms, expel cold and wind with hot r Recommended: and spicy foods for one day. Thermal Decoction of spring onions nature Cool, possibly a little cold c and ginger Phase Metal, earth Chili con carne Flavor Acrid, bitter, possibly a little sweet As soon as symptoms shift from wind–cold to Preparation Raw, boiled, !wind–heat (possibly overnight), with the pre- methods steamed dominant symptom of fever with sweating, imme- Fruit Pears, watermelons diately change nutritional therapy and choose cool and cold foods. Vegetables Chinese (napa) cabbage, mung beans (sprouts even cooler), radish, black soy- ¢ Acute Bronchitis beans, dandelion Wind–Heat Invading the Lung Beverages Pear juice (for dryness, sore (Feng Re Fan Fei) throat, and phlegm), green tea, peppermint tea Symptoms Grains Wheat Burning sore throat, frequent cough, yellow secre- Spices Chinese chrysanthemum tion, fever, aversion to cold, stuffy nose, aching blossoms, mulberry leaves, body and aching limbs, headaches. salt /salt water Tongue: Thin yellow fur Pulse: Superficial, fast Soy products Tofu

Causes Wind–heat attacks on the lung, summer flu, weakened defense qi or next stage of a wind–cold attack on the lung (transformation from cold to heat can occur within a few hours). Respiratory Tract Disorders 167

Relief during initial stage: r Recommended: Concentrated peppermint tea, Chi- c Thermal Neutral and cool, later neu- nese chrysanthemum blossom tea nature tral and warm to supplement Dry cough: the spleen Pear juice Organ network Lung, spleen Flavor Slightly acrid, slightly sweet, Sore throat: salty (transforms phlegm) Figs, fresh lemon juice Preparation Raw, boiled, steamed Cough relief and loosening of methods phlegm: Roasted almonds with salt Mucolytic (decongesting) and transforming: Fruit Pears, lemons Cough and loss of voice: Fresh radish juice and ginger Beverages Green tea Grains Soybeans Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, radish, red ¢ Bronchitis, Sinusitis with Yellow marine algae (dulse) Secretion Phlegm–Heat Obstructing the Lung Cooling effect on lung: (Tan Re Zu Fei) Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, watercress, radish, celery root (celeriac), Symptoms asparagus Cough with copious yellow, possibly green, spu- Beverages Peppermint tea, green and tum; bloating and feeling of pressure in chest, black tea exhaustion, lack of appetite, soft stools. Tongue: Red, with thick, sticky, yellow fur Pulse: Fast, slippery Supplement spleen and remove dampness: Grains Millet, rice Causes Long-term damage or constitutional vacuity of Cough with phlegm: lung qi, combined with a spleen qi vacuity, promotes the formation of dampness and phlegm; Vegetables Button or crimini/portobella inappropriate diet, excess of fatty, hot dishes. mushrooms Nuts and seeds Pine nuts, salt-roasted Therapy almonds

Loosen phlegm Clear heat Tip: Recurrent bronchial and sinus “phlegm LU-7 LU-5 LI-4 LI-11 BL-13 conditions” respond very well to reducing the p ST-40 (transforms phlegm) consumption of dairy products and meat. a Avoid: Dairy products (promote congestion), bananas, alcoholic beverages, reduce consumption of meat. 168 Clinical Examples

Bronchitis/Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic lung function impairment; recurrent Lung qi vacuity bronchitis/chronic bronchitis Chronic bronchitis with phlegm production Lung qi or spleen qi vacuity (and phlegm retention in lung) Chronic bronchitis with constitutional lung Lung yin and kidney yin vacuity function impairment

According to TCM: Therapy Cough “ke sou” and phlegm “tan yin” are caused by chronic vacuity of lung, spleen, and kidney. Treatment Supplement lung should primarily consist of acupuncture and herbal LU-9 BL-13 therapy, accompanied by dietary measures. Over a p CV-6 ST-36 longer period (weeks to months), nutritional therapy can noticeably strengthen organ function and reduce formation of phlegm. a Avoid: Raw, cool, and cold foods, and bitter flavor. Chronic bronchitis is primarily a mixed syn- !drome of the above-mentioned primary syn- r Recommended: dromes. Treatment should target the primary syndrome. Treatment principles for nutritional Thermal therapy are supplementing the spleen for phlegm nature Neutral and warm reduction and supplementing the lung and kidney Organ network Lung, spleen to make up for chronic vacuity. Flavor Slightly acrid, slightly sweet Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried methods ¢ Chronic Lung Function Impairment; Recurrent Meat Duck Bronchitis/Chronic Bronchitis Fish Carp Lung Qi Vacuity Fruit Grapes Vegetables Cauliflower, carrots, onions Symptoms Weak cough; thin, clear sputum; spontaneous per- Grains Oats, short-grain (glutinous) spiration, fatigue, susceptibility to infection. rice Tongue: Pale Spices Aniseed, ginger, garlic, Pulse: Weak rosemary, thyme Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, almonds, black Causes sesame, sunflower seeds, Protracted and persistent cough weakens lung qi; walnuts constitutional weakness; general exhaustion (especially in old age). Other Alcoholic beverages

Congee (see p. 117) with rice, onion, c and ginger Respiratory Tract Disorders 169

¢ Chronic Bronchitis with Phlegm Thermal Production (and Phlegm Retention nature Neutral and warm in Lung) Organ network Spleen, heart, lung Spleen Qi Vacuity and Lung Qi Vacuity Flavor Slightly sweet, slightly bitter, slightly acrid Symptoms Preparation Boiled, fried, steamed Cough with excessive white sputum, sensation of methods fullness in chest, fatigue, lack of appetite, soft stools. Transform phlegm: Tongue: Whitish, slimy fur Pulse: Slippery Fruit Pears, cherries, apples Vegetables Leeks, radish Causes Protracted or constitutional damage to lung qi, Grains Millet chronic spleen qi vacuity caused by inappropriate Spices Ginger, garlic diet and overwork. Supplement spleen:

Therapy Meat Poultry, beef Vegetables Fennel, carrots Transform phlegm Grains Oats, millet, rice Supplement spleen Supplement lung Spices Aniseed, basil, ginger, cori- LU-9 BL-13 ST-40 CV-12 ander, thyme p PC-6 SP-3 BL-20 Millet or rice dishes with acrid seasonings a Avoid: c Raw, cold, and cool foods; dairy products, excess sweets, excess meat. r Recommended: (see “Lung Qi Vacuity,” p. 79) 170 Clinical Examples

¢ Chronic Bronchitis, r Recommended:

Constitutional Lung Disorder Thermal Lung Yin Vacuity and Kidney Yin Vacuity nature Neutral and cool Organ network Lung, spleen, kidney Symptoms Flavor Sweet, slightly salty Dry cough, dry throat, chronic shortness of breath, weakness in knee and back, hot hands and feet, Preparation Raw, steamed, boiled subfebrile temperatures in the afternoon. methods Tongue: Red, dry, possibly no fur Pulse: Thin Supplementing lung yin:

Causes Meat Duck, pork Protracted smoldering illness, chronic exhaustion, Fruit Pears, tangerines, apricots, physiological process of aging. figs Vegetables Eggplant, button or Therapy crimini/portobella mushrooms, carrots, water chest- Supplement lung yin and kidney yin nuts KI-3 BL-23 LU-7 BL-13 Spices Honey p CV-4 SI-4 LU-9 Nuts and seeds Peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, pine nuts a Avoid: Dairy products Butter, yogurt, farmer’s Warm and hot foods, excess bitter and acrid flavor. cheese, cottage cheese, cow’s milk Soy products Soy milk Supplementing kidney yin: Meat Duck, pork Fish Oysters, perch, octopus Fruit Cherries, grapes Vegetables Carrots Grains Wheat, corn Nuts and seeds Black sesame, walnuts Other Sheep’s milk and goat’s milk products

For dry cough: c Milk with honey, almond milk Restorative soup with carrots and pork Respiratory Tract Disorders 171

Main Symptom: Cough

Acute weak cough Wind–cold fettering the lung (feng han shu fei) Acute violent cough Wind–heat invading the lung (feng re fan fei) Chronic cough with sputum Phlegm–damp cough (tan shi ke sou) Chronic dry cough Lung yin vacuity with dryness (fei yin xu, fei zao)

According to TCM: ¢ Acute Severe Cough Counterflow lung qi; differential diagnosis based on Wind–Heat Invading the Lung frequency, severity, secretion and fever. Good results can (Feng Re Fan Fei) be achieved with nutritional therapy, acupuncture, and herbs. Requires extended therapy over several weeks. Symptoms Frequent strong cough with yellow or greenish thin or viscous secretion, sore throat, fever, head- ¢ Acute Weak Cough aches. Wind–Cold Fettering the Lung Therapy (Feng Han Shu Fei) Expel wind and cold Symptoms LU-5 LU-11 LI-4 Weak, quiet cough with thin white secretion, sore p SI-14 LI-11 ST-40 throat, fever without sweating, aversion to cold.

Therapy a Avoid: Warm and hot foods. Dispel wind and cold Downbear qi r Recommended: LU-7 BL-13 TB-5 p LI-4 GB-20 ST-40 Fruit Pears, pear juice, grapefruit, lemons Vegetables Radish, bamboo sprouts a Avoid: Cold and cool foods. Beverages Radish juice, green tea r Recommended: Radish juice, pear juice, radish juice with ginger

Beverages Thyme tea with honey Spices Thyme, watercress, aniseed Nuts and seeds Roasted almonds with salt, walnuts with honey, almond butter c Aniseed tea 172 Clinical Examples

¢ Chronic Cough with Sputum ¢ Chronic Dry Cough Phlegm–Damp Cough (Tan Shi Ke Sou) Lung Yin Vacuity with Dryness (Fei Yin Su, Fei Zao) Symptoms Cough with excessive white sputum, exhaustion, Symptoms bloating in thorax and epigastric region, loss of Persistent, dry, intense cough, little or no secre- appetite. tion, dry throat, thirst, fever in the afternoon, heat Tongue: White, sticky fur sensation in hands and feet. Pulse: Slippery Tongue: Red, dry, possibly thin, yellow fur Pulse: Thin Causes Chronic lung qi vacuity and spleen qi vacuity Causes caused by external pathogenic factors and incor- Damage caused by external or internal heat, deple- rect nutrition. tion of body fluids.

Therapy Therapy

Loosen phlegm Nourish yin Supplement spleen qi and lung qi Dispel heat SP-3 + Moxa LU-9 + Moxa Moisten dryness p BL-13 + Moxa BL-20 + Moxa KI-6 SP-5 LU-6 ST-40 PC-6 p BL-13 LU-9 LU-7 a Avoid: a Avoid: Raw, cold, and cool foods, dairy products, meat, Acrid and hot foods. acrid and fatty foods, excess sweets. r Recommended: r Recommended: Thermal Thermal nature Neutral, cool, and cold nature Neutral and warm Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas, Organ network Stomach, spleen, pancreas, lung lung Flavor Sweet Flavor Slightly sweet, bitter, acrid Preparation Boiled, steamed, baked Preparation methods (au gratin) methods Raw, boiled Meat Duck, pork Fruit Lemons, pears, apricots Fruit Pears Vegetables Button or crimini/portobella Beverages Pear juice, aniseed tea mushrooms, fennel, radish, carrots, cauliflower, kohlrabi Spices Honey, aniseed, watercress Grains Millet, rice, corn, oats Dairy products Butter, cream Spices Ginger, aniseed, watercress, Nuts and seeds Almond butter, pine nuts, pepper sesame, walnuts with honey, peanuts Nuts and seeds Pine nuts, salted almonds, salted peanuts Soy products Tofu, soymilk Other Chicken eggs Respiratory Tract Disorders 173

Peanut milk, peanut butter, and c almond butter mixed with honey, paste of ground pine nuts, almonds, and walnuts. 174 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Sore Throat

Acute tonsillitis Wind–heat invading the lung (feng re fan fei) Acute laryngitis Wind–cold fettering the lung (feng han shu fei) Acute/chronic laryngitis Dryness–heat damaging the lung (zao re shang fei)

According to TCM: a Avoid: The most common cause of these disorders is attack of Foods with sour flavor, for example lemon, poultry external pathogenic factors (wind–heat, wind–cold). (they draw pathogenic factors deeper into the Acute disorders are usually a repletion syndrome, body); foods with hot and warm thermal natures whereas chronic illnesses generally appear as a vacuity (too drying). syndrome. Acute disorders can be treated with good results by immediate application of acupuncture, nutri- r Recommended: tional therapy, and herbs. Thermal nature Cool and cold ¢ Acute Tonsillitis Organ network Lung, spleen/pancreas Wind–Heat Invading the Lung Flavor Mildly acrid (to expel (Feng Re Fan Fei) pathogenic factors, but avoid creating heat), sweet Symptoms (moistens) Painful reddened and swollen throat, burning pain, trouble swallowing, hoarseness, thirst, some- Preparation Raw, boiled, steamed times cough with thick yellow sputum; reddened methods swollen, possibly yellow–whitish tonsils. Tongue: Yellow fur For cooling: Pulse: Superficial Fruit Mulberries, watermelons, lemons, mangos Causes Penetration of external wind and heat factors that Vegetables Dandelion, mung beans, deplete body fluids (summer heat, central heating, radish, tomatoes steel workers). Beverages Green tea Grains Wheat Therapy Remove external pathogenic heat Spices Peppermint

Supplement lung To moisten dryness: LU-11 (microbleeding) Fruit Pears p LU-5 LI-11 LI-4 GB-20 LU-7 ST-44 Beverages Pear juice, melon juice, tomato juice

Mixture of tomato and watermelon c juices. For dryness, drink pear juice with honey. Gargle with or drink fresh juice of one to two lemons. Respiratory Tract Disorders 175

¢ Acute Laryngitis ¢ Acute/Chronic Laryngitis Wind–Cold Fettering the Lung Dryness in Lung (Feng Han Shu Fei) Symptoms Symptoms Acute or chronic dry sore throat, hoarseness, dry Scratchy throat, hoarseness, weak cough with cough, dry skin. whitish sputum, aversion to cold. Tongue: Reddish Tongue: Thin, white fur Pulse: Fast Pulse: Superficial Causes Causes External dryness enters the lung, vacuity of body External wind–cold factors block qi, for example fluids, condition shortly before lung yin vacuity cold air, draft, air conditioners, cool storage rooms. develops, dry surroundings, heated air.

Therapy Therapy

Expel wind–cold Moisten lung Supplement lung Replenish fluids LU-7 TB-5 GB-20 LI-4 LU-9 KI-6 LU-7 p p LI-4 LU-5 SP-6 a Avoid: a Avoid: Raw, cool, and cold, as well as sour foods. Thermal Acrid, sour, bitter foods with warm and hot ther- nature: Hot for a short time, then warm, neutral. mal nature.

Recommended: r r Recommended: Thermal Hot for a short time; then Thermal nature warm, neutral nature Neutral and cool Organ network Lung Organ network Spleen Flavor Acrid Flavor Sweet Preparation Preparation Boiled, steamed methods Boiled, steamed, fried methods Vegetables Green onions Fruit Pears, honeydew melons Spices Ginger, coriander, garlic, Vegetables Eggplant, button mush- pepper, thyme, cinnamon rooms Nuts and seeds Peanuts, pine nuts This syndrome can quickly change into !wind–heat. If this happens, adapt therapy Soy products Soy milk immediately! Banana with honey Decoction of fresh ginger and green onions c (But not with phlegm conditions!) 176 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Frontal Sinusitis and Maxillary Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis Wind–heat invading the lung (feng re fan fei) Acute/chronic sinusitis Liver–gallbladder damp–heat (gan dan shi re)

According to TCM: r Recommended: Belongs to the “bi yuan” category, which literally means “nose pond,” and refers to deep-source nasal conges- Thermal tion. nature Cool and cold Organ network Lung, spleen The main cause of sinusitis is repeated external attack of wind–heat or wind–cold (usually Flavor Mildly acrid (to expel pathogenic factors, but avoid pro- wind–heat). Sinusitis responds very well to acu- ducing heat), sweet (to puncture and herbal treatments, supported by moisten) dietary measures. Other causes of sinusitis are lung qi vacuity and spleen qi vacuity, both of which Preparation can be easily treated with nutritional therapy. methods Raw, boiled, steamed Spleen qi vacuity, responsible for acute and chronic phlegm production, responds especially To cool: well to dietary measures. Fruit Mulberries, watermelons, pears, lemons, grapefruit ¢ Acute Sinusitis Vegetables Dandelion, mung beans, rad- Wind–Heat Invading the Lung ish, tomatoes (Feng Re Fan Fei) Grains Wheat Spices Peppermint Symptoms Stuffy nose with white, mostly yellow secretion and crusting, partly blood-stained; headache, dry For dryness: mouth, slight fever, aversion to wind. Fruit Pears Tongue: Thin, yellow fur Beverages Pear juice, tomato juice, Pulse: Fast and superficial melon juice

Therapy Juice mix made from tomatoes and Expel wind–heat c watermelon Balance lung qi LI-20 LI-4 LI-11 For dryness: p LU-10 LU-7 GB-20 Pear juice with honey a Avoid: Foods with sour flavor, for example lemon, or poultry (which pull pathogenic factors deeper into the body), foods with hot and warm thermal natures (too drying). Respiratory Tract Disorders 177

¢ Acute/Chronic Sinusitis r Recommended: Liver–Gallbladder Damp–Heat Thermal (Gan Dan Shi Re) nature Cool and cold Symptoms Organ network Liver, gallbladder Stuffy nose, dryness, sticky and yellowish purulent Flavor Bitter, salty, slightly sweet secretion; foul-smelling, bitter taste in mouth; dry mouth and throat, headaches. Preparation Raw, boiled, steamed Tongue: Reddened on the side, yellow fur methods Pulse: Fast, lateral To disperse heat and remove dampness: Causes Fish Crayfish Combination of external wind–heat, excess heat and phlegm-producing foods (e.g., fatty and fatty Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, mung foods, alcohol abuse); emotional strain, such as beans, dandelion, celery root (celeriac) anger, rage, stress. Beverages Green tea Therapy To disperse heat: Dispel liver–gallbladder damp–heat Vegetables Bamboo shoots, Belgian Promote downbearing of lung qi endive hearts LR-2 LI-4 GB-43 p LU-7 GB-15 Beverages Gentian tea, green tea a Avoid: Gentian tea, green tea Thermally hot and warm foods, grilled food, acrid c spices, alcoholic beverages, very fatty dishes, dairy Pear juice with fresh lemon products. ¢ Recurrent Sinusitis Lung Qi Vacuity, Spleen Qi Vacuity

Symptoms Stuffy nose, copious white–sticky or yellow–sticky viscous secretion, sometimes cough with watery or yellow–sticky sputum, loss of appetite, soft stools. Tongue: Slightly red, white fur Pulse: Weak and empty

Therapy

Supplement lung and spleen LU-9 BL-13 SP-2 p BL-20 ST-36 CV-6 ST-40

a Avoid: Raw, cool, or cold foods, and bitter flavor. 178 Clinical Examples r Recommended: Thermal nature Neutral and warm Thermal Organ network Spleen, heart, lung nature Neutral and warm Flavor Slightly sweet, slightly bitter, Organ network Lung, spleen slightly acrid Flavor Slightly acrid, slightly sweet Preparation Boiled, fried, steamed Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried methods methods Meat Duck To transform phlegm: Fish Carp Fruit Pears, cherries, apples Fruit Grapes Vegetables Leeks, radish Vegetables Cauliflower, carrots, onions Grains Millet Grains Oats, short-grain (glutinous) Spices Ginger, garlic rice Spices Aniseed, ginger, garlic, To supplement spleen: rosemary, thyme Meat Poultry, beef Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, almonds, black Vegetables Fennel, carrots sesame, sunflower seeds, walnuts Grains Oats, millet, rice Other Alcoholic beverages Spices Aniseed, basil, ginger, coriander, thyme

Congee (see p. 117) made with rice, onions, and ginger Damp–Heat in Spleen c c (Pi Wei Shi Re) a Avoid: Symptoms Raw, cold, and cool food, dairy products, excess Stuffy nose with copious yellow, foul-smelling sweets, excess meat. secretion; pressure in head, sensation of heaviness in head and limbs; bitter, sticky taste in mouth. r Recommended: Tongue: Yellow, sticky fur (see also “Lung Qi Vacuity,” p. 79) Pulse: Fast, slippery

Causes External dampness and heat, nutritional errors (irregular eating, too many acrid and fatty dishes).

Therapy

Supplement spleen Remove heat and dampness SP-9 LI-20 CV-12 p BL-22 LI-4

a Avoid: Raw, thermally hot and warm foods, excess sweets, dairy products, and alcoholic beverages. Respiratory Tract Disorders 179 r Recommended: Decoction of corn silk tea: Steep about 50 g (1.5 oz) of corn silk Thermal Cool, cold, c in 1 L (four cups) of hot water; drink nature and neutral 1–2 L (four to eight cups) daily. Organ network Spleen Clears damp–heat and cools.

Flavor Bitter Decoction of corn silk tea and Preparation dandelion: methods Steamed, boiled Steep about 50 g (1.5 oz) each of corn Vegetables Artichokes, Belgian endive silk and dandelion in 1 L (four cups) of hearts, cucumbers, mung hot water; drink 1–2 L (four to eight beans, celery cups) daily. Combining dandelion with corn silk increases the cooling Beverages Gentian tea, green tea, corn and clearing effect of decoction. silk tea Grains Millet 180

Bronchial Asthma

Intrinsic (nonallergic) asthma Phlegm–heat obstructing the lung (tan re zu fei) Extrinsic (allergic) asthma Wind–cold fettering the lung (feng han shu fei) Chronic asthma Lung qi vacuity and spleen qi vacuity Lung qi vacuity and kidney yang vacuity

According to TCM: a Avoid: Shortness of breath (qi chuan bing) with or without Cold and overly acrid foods, excess sweet flavor, accompanying sounds (gasping [xiao] due to phlegm) excess dairy products and meat (promotes produc- and with or without dyspnea (chuan). tion of phlegm), foods of a hot thermal nature (e.g., Acute bronchial asthma is often caused by pathogenic acrid spices). factors such as wind–cold, heat, and phlegm. A chronic course or remission signifies an underlying lung, spleen, r Recommended: or kidney vacuity. These syndromes often overlap. Consistent therapy combining acupuncture and herbs, Thermal Neutral and cool, small supported by dietary measures and breathing exercise, nature amounts of cold for example qi gong, can produce good results. Organ network Lung, spleen Flavor Mildly acrid, mildly sweet ¢ Intrinsic (Nonallergic) Asthma Preparation Raw, steamed, braised, Phlegm–Heat Obstructing the Lung methods boiled (Tan Re Zu Fei) (Acute Heat-Type Asthma ) Transformation of hot phlegm: Fruit Pears, tangerines (peel), Symptoms grapefruit (peel), lemons Thick yellow viscous sputum that is difficult to (peel preferably from organi- cough up, frequent flat respiratory sounds, hasty cally grown fruit) breathing, thirst for cold drinks, fever. Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, button or Tongue: Yellow, sticky fur crimini/portobella mush- Pulse: Fast, slippery rooms, dandelion, mung beans, radish, red marine Causes algae (rhodophyta, red sea- Inappropriate nutrition leading to spleen qi vacu- weed, or dulse) ity, external wind–heat factors.

Clear heat in lung: Therapy Fruit Apples, pears Transform phlegm Vegetables Seaweed, bamboo sprouts, Cool heat inside lung watercress, Chinese (napa) Stimulate qi coursing cabbage, asparagus, radish, CV-17 ST-40 LU-5 LU-6 water chestnuts p LI-4 TB-5 PC-6 BL-13 Beverages Peppermint tea Grains Pearl barley Respiratory Tract Disorders 181

Supplementing spleen: r Recommended: Meat Poultry, beef Thermal Warm and neutral, possibly Vegetables Fennel, carrots, sweet pota- nature mildly hot toes Organ network Lung Grains Millet, rice Flavor Acrid Spices Aniseed Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried methods Radish juice, pear juice with Vegetables Green onions fresh lemon c Grains Oats Spices Aniseed, ginger, coriander, ¢ Extrinsic (Allergic) Asthma thyme Wind–Cold Fettering the Lung (Feng Han Shu Fei) Decoction of fresh ginger and (Acute Cold-Type Asthma) c green onions Symptoms Often copious whitish, watery sputum, gasping ¢ Chronic Asthma breathing sounds, aversion to cold, scratchy throat. Lung Qi Vacuity and Spleen Qi Vacuity Tongue: White fur, damp Pulse: Superficial Symptoms Copious white sputum, fatigue, swollen extremi- Causes ties, lack of appetite, bloating in epigastric region External pathogenic wind–cold binds qi in lungs, after eating. causing nondiffusion of lung qi; constitutional Tongue: Swollen, pale, white fur weakness. Pulse: Weak

Therapy Causes Persistent cough, weakened lung qi, constitutional Expel of wind–cold weakness, lack of exercise, inappropriate diet that Transform phlegm weakens the spleen. LU-7 BL-13 ST-9 p CV-17 ST-40 Therapy a Avoid: Supplement lung and spleen Raw, cool, and cold foods, foods that cause phlegm p SP-3 ST-36 BL-20 (dairy products, sweets, meat). BL-21 LU-9 BL-13

w Nutritional Therapy

a Avoid: Raw, cool, and cold foods, dairy products, excess sweet, excess meat.

r Recommended: (see also “Lung Qi Vacuity,” p. 79) 182 Clinical Examples

Thermal Congee (see p. 117) made with rice, nature Neutral and warm c onions, and ginger Flavor Slightly acrid, slightly sweet Organ network Lung, spleen ¢ Flavor Mildly acrid, mildly sweet Chronic Asthma Lung Qi Vacuity and Kidney Yang Vacuity Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried methods (Kidney is Unable to Receive Qi)

Meat Duck Symptoms Fish Carp Cough, dyspnea, predominantly during inhalation (which is governed by the kidneys), dizziness, list- Fruit Grapes lessness, clear urination during asthma attack, Vegetables Cauliflower, carrots, onions pain and weakness in knees and back. Grains Oats, short-grain (glutinous) Tongue: Moist, swollen, and pale rice Pulse: Weak Spices Aniseed, ginger, garlic, Causes rosemary, thyme Long-lasting chronic illnesses that weaken lung Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, almonds, black and kidney; inherited vacuity of the organ net- sesame, sunflower seeds, works, excessive tension and strain. Because of walnuts kidney qi vacuity, the downbearing qi of the lungs Other Alcoholic beverages can not be received, and accumulation of qi leads to a repletion condition, with fullness in the chest and dyspnea. To transform phlegm:

Fruit Pears, cherries, apples Therapy Vegetables Leeks, radish Supplement and warm kidneys Grains Millet Supplement lung Spices Ginger, garlic KI-7 + Moxa KI-3 + Moxa p BL-23 + Moxa LU-7 KI-6 To supplement spleen: CV-17 PC-6 BL-13 Meat Poultry, beef Vegetables Fennel, carrots a Avoid: Grains Oats, millet, rice Excess hot and acrid foods as well as raw, cold, and cool foods. Spices Aniseed, basil, ginger, coriander, thyme Respiratory Tract Disorders 183 r Recommended:

Thermal Warm and a little hot, nature neutral Organ network Kidney, lung Flavor Salty, bitter Preparation methods Boiled, baked, fried, and grilled

To supplement and warm kidneys: Meat Chicken, lamb, venison Fish Mussels, shrimp, oysters Fruit Raisins, grapes, cherries Vegetables Fennel Grains Oats, corn Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, walnuts

To supplement and downbear lung qi: Meat Pork, duck Fish Mussels, pollack, carp, squid Vegetables Cauliflower, olives, onions Other Salted almonds 184 Gastrointestinal Disorders

Main Symptom: Diarrhea

Acute and chronic diarrhea Stomach qi and spleen qi vacuity Stomach yang and spleen yang vacuity Large intestine qi and yang vacuity Acute/chronic diarrhea Damp–cold encumbering the spleen (han shi kun pi) Infectious enteritis/traveler’s diarrhea Damp–heat in spleen or large intestine Chronic morning diarrhea Spleen yang and kidney yang vacuity (“fifth watch diarrhea”)

According to TCM: Therapy “Xie xie” means “flow discharge” and indicates soft and watery stools. This condition generally responds well to Supplement spleen and stomach nutritional therapy, acupuncture, and possibly herbal CV-12 ST-36 SP-2 SP-3 therapy. Supplementing the center burner is also impor- p BL-20 BL-21 possibly Moxa! tant. w General Nutritional Therapy a Avoid: Rice, short-grain (glutinous) rice, millet, blueber- Raw and thermally cool or cold foods (salads, fruit, ries, button or crimini/portobella mushrooms, fruit juices), dairy products, denatured foods, shredded apple; cooked, warm food. frozen food, canned food.

r Recommended: ¢ Boiled or steamed warming foods that build up Acute and Chronic Diarrhea spleen and stomach, combined with mildly acrid Stomach Qi and Spleen Qi Vacuity spices. Stomach Yang and Spleen Yang Vacuity Large Intestine Qi and Yang Vacuity Thermal Warm, neutral, possibly nature initially hot for a brief period Symptoms Organ network Spleen, stomach Usually chronic diarrhea, watery and soft stools with undigested food particles, bloating after Flavor Sweet–warm, sweet–neutral, possibly meals, improvement with pressure and warmth, sweet–hot (briefly) flatulence after meals, physical weakness, lack of appetite. Meat Poultry, beef Tongue: Pale, swollen with impressions Fruit Steamed apples, blueberries Pulse: Weak Vegetables Fennel, pureed carrots, button or crimini/portobella Causes mushrooms, possibly some Diet: Inappropriate diet that is too thermally honey or brown sugar cold, irregular meals. General: Excessive worries, mental overexer- Beverages Fennel tea tion. Gastrointestinal Disorders 185

Recommended: Grains Rolled oats, millet, rice, rice r soup, short-grain (glutinous) Thermal rice with cinnamon and nature Warm to hot, neutral honey, slightly acrid rice dishes (warming effect) Organ network Earth Flavor Sweet–warm, bitter–warm Boiled millet porridge with cinnamon Preparation Boiled; steamed, possibly c and raisins; methods with alcohol; warming spices (e.g., ginger, pepper). Rice cooked for a long time, with apple and cinnamon; Vegetables Fennel, carrots, sweet potatoes Carrot congee (see p. 117). Beverages Fennel tea, spiced tea, coffee with cardamom Grains Oats, millet, rice with mildly ¢ Acute/Chronic Diarrhea acrid spices Damp–Cold in Spleen or Large Intestine Spices Aniseed, chili, ginger, pepper, licorice, cinnamon Symptoms Tendency to clear watery stool with undigested Ginger tea with cinnamon bark; food particles, gurgling bowel sounds; improvement of stomach aches with warmth, worsening c Coffee with cinnamon or cardamom; with pressure; aversion to cold, headaches, sensation of heaviness. Cinnamon rice with steamed apples. Tongue: White fur, moist, possibly slimy Pulse: Slow, slippery ¢ Causes Infectious Enteritis, Diet: Excess cold foods (e.g., ice tea) is a com- Traveler’s Diarrhea mon cause of diarrhea in children during Damp–Heat in Spleen or Large Intestine summer. General: Penetration of external cold and damp- Symptoms ness (e.g., too much time spent in the Watery, soft, and foul smelling to stinking stools, swimming pool, wet clothes). tenesmus (constant feeling of the need to empty the bowel, accompanied by pain, cramping, and Therapy involuntary straining efforts), possibly bowel movement with blood, stomach aches that Expel cold improve after bowel movement, hot burning sen- Warm center burner sation around anus, sparse dark urine, thirst. ST-25 + Moxa Tongue: Thick, yellow fur, possibly slimy p ST-36 + Moxa CV-12 + Moxa Pulse: Fast and slippery CV-6 + Moxa SP-9 Causes Diet: Inappropriate or spoiled foods. a Avoid: General: Infections, penetration of external Raw, cold, and cool foods. heat, and dampness into intestines. 186 Clinical Examples

Therapy Causes General: Overwork, long-lasting illness, emo- Dispel heat tional stress, dissipated sex life, many Dry dampness births, exposure to cold. ST-44 LI-11 BL-22 CV-12 p ST-25 SP-6 SP-9 PC-6 Therapy

Warm kidneys a Avoid: Supplement spleen Acrid, warm, and hot foods. CV-12 + Moxa CV-4 + Moxa p SP-6 + Moxa BL-20 + Moxa r Recommended: ST-36 + Moxa BL-23 + Moxa CV-6 + Moxa SI-4 + Moxa KI-7 Thermal nature Cool, cold, and neutral Organ network Earth a Avoid: Raw, cool, and cold foods. Flavor Sweet, bitter Preparation r Recommended: methods Raw, boiled, steamed Thermal Warm to hot (briefly), Fruit Bananas, pears, honeydew nature neutral melons, oranges, cranberries Organ network Kidney, spleen/pancreas Vegetables Eggplant, bamboo sprouts, cucumbers, spinach, mung Flavor Slightly salty, sweet beans, dandelion Preparation Steamed, boiled, fried Beverages Green tea, black tea, methods chamomile tea, wheat beer Meat Lamb, chicken Grains Amaranth, corn Fruit Raisins, cherries Spices Yellow gentian Vegetables Fennel, leeks, carrots Dairy products Yogurt Grains Oats, short-grain (glutinous) Soy products Soy yogurt, tofu rice, corn, millet Spices Aniseed, cinnamon, pepper, Increase consumption of green ginger c or black tea and dried cranberries Nuts and seeds Walnuts, chestnuts

¢ Chronic Morning Diarrhea Master Soup three times a week. Spleen Yang and Kidney Yang Vacuity c Suggested ingredients: carrots, leek, beef, ginger, etc. Symptoms Chronic morning diarrhea! Stomach aches that improve with warmth, cold extremities, weakness in back and knees. Tongue: Pale, impressions Pulse: Weak, deep Gastrointestinal Disorders 187

Main Symptom: Constipation

Constipation in elderly patients, postnatal constipation Qi vacuity or yang vacuity Constipation primarily in elderly patients Yin vacuity Constipation caused by stress or travel Liver qi stagnation Chronic internal heat or heat in stomach and large intestine

According to TCM: r Recommended: Infrequent bowel movements, abnormal stool shape, dry stools. Thermal nature Warm and neutral Responds very well to consistent dietary ther- Organ network Spleen, kidney, lung, large !apy, and also to combination of acupuncture intestine and herbal therapy. Flavor Sweet, bitter, acrid w General Nutritional Therapy Preparation Steamed, fried, boiled Give preference to fruits and vegetables rich in methods fiber. Meat Beef, poultry Fruit Dates, plums, cherries, ¢ Constipation in Elderly Patients peaches, apricots, figs and Postnatal Constipation Vegetables Fennel, radish, carrots, sweet potatoes Qi Vacuity or Yang Vacuity Beverages Grape juice Symptoms Grains Oats, rice, corn, soy Thinly formed, long stools; exertion and exhaus- Spices Aniseed, fresh ginger, garlic, tion after defecation, pale face, cold extremities. marzipan, cinnamon Seen especially in elderly patients and postpartum. Nuts and seeds Almonds, pine nuts, black Tongue: Pale, swollen, moist sesame Pulse: Weak, deep Tip: Increase use of warming spices that Causes promote digestion, such as pepper, coriander, Qi vacuity or yang vacuity of the spleen, yang vacu- capers, garlic. ity of the kidneys, exhaustion, aging, women after childbirth, after surgery, following long illnesses. ¢ Constipation Primarily in Elderly Therapy Patients Yin Vacuity Supplement qi Supplement kidneys Symptoms Moisten intestine r Dry stool, dryness in mouth and throat (especially CV-4 + Moxa CV-6 + Moxa in the evening), night sweat, dizziness, ringing in p SP-6 + Moxa ST-36 + Moxa the ears. Primarily seen in elderly patients. BL-20 BL-21 Tongue: Red, chapped, without fur 188 Clinical Examples

Pulse: Superficial, empty Walnuts with sesame c Walnuts with almonds and honey Causes Aging (kidney yin vacuity), fluid deficiency in large Tip: Fresh fruits moisten and cool the digestive intestine. tract. Dried fruits concentrate sweetness, are mostly warming, absorb juices, moisten, and Therapy have a stronger laxative effect.

Nourish yin Supplement kidneys ¢ Constipation Caused Replenish body fluids by Stress or Travel Moisten Liver Qi Stagnation SP-6 KI-6 KI-3 BL-23 ST-36 p ST-25 (no moxibustion) Symptoms Sheeplike stool (small pellets), difficult bowel a Avoid: movement, belching, irritability. Usually caused by stress or travel. Bitter, acrid, and hot foods (too drying). Tongue: Slightly reddened sides r Recommended: Pulse: Tense

Thermal Cool and neutral, for heat Causes nature symptoms possibly slightly Unresolved anger, stress, resentment. cold Therapy Organ network Spleen, lung, large intestine, kidney Loosen stagnation Flavor Sweet, salty Downbear qi Preparation Steamed, raw Moisten methods LR-3 LI-4 CV-12 ST-36 p ST-25 GB-34 Meat Pork Fruit Bananas, pears, apples, apricots, plums a Avoid: Hot and fatty foods, acrid spices, fried or grilled Vegetables Seaweed, eggplant, Chinese foods. (napa) cabbage, cucumbers, spinach, celery root (celeriac) r Recommended:

Grains Wheat, barley, wheat germ Thermal Neutral and cool, possibly a Spices Salt nature little cold Nuts and seeds Black sesame, peanuts Organ network Spleen Soy products Tofu Phase Wood Flavor Sour, possibly a little sweet, bitter–cool Preparation Raw, steamed, blanched methods Fruit Oranges, plums, grapefruit Gastrointestinal Disorders 189

Vegetables Chinese (napa) cabbage, r Recommended: cucumbers, mung beans, spinach, tomatoes, celery Thermal stalks nature Cool and cold Beverages Bread juice, black tea, wheat Organ network Liver, spleen, large intestine beer, plum juice Flavor Sour, sweet Grains Wheat, wheat germ Preparation Raw and steamed Nuts and seeds Black sesame methods Soy products Tofu Fruit Apples, bananas, pears, Other Yogurt, kefir, vinegar, apple kiwis, oranges, plums, cider grapefruit Vegetables Mung beans, spinach, rhubarb Wheat beer Beverages Pear juice, green tea, wheat c beer Apple cider vinegar Grains Wheat Celery Spices Salt Dairy products Yogurt Chronic Internal Heat, Heat in Stomach and Soy products Tofu Large Intestine

Symptoms Increase consumption of plum, pear, Dry, hard stools, infrequent bowel movements, c or orange juice. thirst, dry mouth, pain and sensation of heat in abdomen. Tongue: Red, dry yellow fur Pulse: Fast

Causes Too many acrid foods, stress.

Therapy

Clear heat Moisten intestine LI-4 LI-11 TB-6 ST-44 p ST-25 SP-15 SP-14 ST-28 a Avoid: Hot foods and acrid spices. 190 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Epigastric Disorders

Acute and chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, and duodenal ulcer Liver qi invading the stomach (gan qi fan wei) Gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer Stomach fire (wei huo) Stomach fire flaming upward (wei huo shang sheng) Liver fire flaming upward (gan huo shang yan) Acute/chronic gastritis Stomach vacuity cold (wei qi xu han) Stomach qi vacuity Acute/chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, and duodenal ulcer Stomach yin vacuity

According to TCM: ¢ Acute/Chronic Gastritis, Disorders of the epigastric region are summarized by the Gastric Ulcer, and Duodenal Ulcer term “wei tong,” which means “stomach pain,” or “wei wan tong,” which means “stomach duct pain.” Both Liver Qi Invading the Stomach indicate stomach function disturbances. (Gan Qi Fan Wei)

Acute gastritis is more of a repletion syndrome, while Symptoms chronic gastritis is more of a vacuity syndrome. Differen- Attacks of cramplike pain in epigastric region, tial diagnosis is made by localization, duration, and type bloating, belching, nausea, retching, heartburn of symptoms. (stomach qi ascending counterflow, heat), bitter taste in mouth, irritability. w General Nutritional Therapy Tongue: Normal, sometimes white, thin fur; Reduce consumption of coffee, cigarettes, alcohol sometimes reddened sides (high-proof), strongly spiced dishes (too warm/hot Pulse: Tense in thermal nature). Instead, several smaller (five) meals a day, prepared in a neutral or slightly Causes warming way. One of the most common causes of acute and chronic epigastric pain is stagnation obstructing Tip: Generally recommended are white cab- the upbearing of stomach qi. Other common bage, white cabbage juice, carrots, dill, parsley, causes are stress, anger, eating too fast; also liver qi sage, basil. stagnation, or ascending liver yang rooted in liver yin or kidney yin vacuity.

Therapy

Calm liver Disperse qi stagnation LR-3 GB-34 PC-6 p CV-12 LR-14 ST-36

a Avoid: Acrid, hot, and fatty foods. Gastrointestinal Disorders 191 r Recommended: Therapy

Thermal Neutral, cool, and cold Calm liver nature Clear heat Organ network Liver, spleen, stomach ST-44 ST-21 LR-13 p LR-14 LR-2 PC-6 Flavor Sour, sweet (possibly for a CV-12 CV-13 short time a little acrid and cool to remove stagnation) Preparation Raw, steamed, boiled a Avoid: method Hot, acrid, and fatty foods. Fish Crab r Recommended: Meat Rabbit Fruit Apples Thermal nature Cool and cold Vegetables Brown seaweed, fennel, celery root (celeriac), celery Phase Earth stalks, (also white cabbage), Flavor Sour, sweet spinach, water chestnuts Preparation Beverages Peppermint tea, black tea, method Raw, steamed, boiled wheat beer Fruit Bananas, kiwis, watermelons Grains Wheat Vegetables Seaweed, bamboo sprouts, Dairy products Yogurt Chinese (napa) cabbage, cucumbers, dandelion, mung beans, tomatoes, Avoid meat; seven-day diet of freshly water chestnuts ground, cooked grain porridge and c Beverages Gentian tea, green tea black tea Grains Barley, wheat ¢ Gastric Ulcer and Duodenal Ulcer Dairy products Yogurt, cow’s milk Stomach Fire (Wei Huo), Stomach Fire Soy products Tofu Flaming Upward (Wei Huo Shang Sheng), and Liver Fire Flaming Upward (Gan Huo Shang Yan) ¢ Acute/Chronic Gastritis Stomach Vacuity Cold (Wei Qi Xu Han) Symptoms Stomach Qi Vacuity Burning pain in epigastrium, bitter taste in mouth, heartburn, thirst, ravenous appetite, swollen and Symptoms bleeding gums, nausea, vomiting, constipation, Acute, dull pain in epigastrium, feeling of coldness, irritability, tendency towards outbursts of rage. vomiting of clear liquids, improvement with warm Tongue: Red, red sides, yellow fur beverages, cold extremities, lack of appetite. Pulse: Fast, full Tongue: Pale; thick, white fur Pulse: Deep, slow, weak Causes Intense, protracted emotional burdens (lead to Causes liver stagnation) that turn into heat/fire and attack Inappropriate diet; penetration of external patho- the stomach. Anger, rage, inappropriate diet, genic cold, for example ice-cold beverages or cold excess acrid and hot foods, stress. foods, which burden stomach qi, lead to stagnation, and obstruct qi downbearing. 192 Clinical Examples

Therapy ¢ Acute/Chronic Gastritis, Gastric Ulcer, and Duodenal Ulcer Expel cold Stomach Yin Vacuity Warm center burner CV-12 + Moxa CV-6 + Moxa Symptoms p ST-36 + Moxa SP-4 Dull, burning pain in epigastric region, dry mouth, BL-20 + Moxa BL-21 + Moxa thirst, constipation, lack of appetite, sensation of heat in the afternoon. a Avoid: Tongue: Red, chapped, no fur at center Raw, cold, and cool foods. Pulse: Fast r Recommended: Causes Diet: The most common causes are irregular Thermal and bad eating habits (too many late nature Warm, hot, and neutral evening meals). General: Protracted heat conditions, deficiency Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas of body fluids, chronic stress, and over- Phase Earth work. Flavor Sweet–warm, sweet–hot Therapy Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried methods (lightly) Nourish stomach yin Meat Beef, chicken Replenish fluids Fish Salmon, tuna SP-6 BL-20 BL-21 ST-36 p CV-12 SP-3 SP-9 SP-4 Fruit Raisins, dates, papaya Vegetables Fennel, carrots, cabbage, potatoes, kohlrabi a Avoid: Acrid, bitter, and hot foods, alcoholic beverages, Beverages Fennel tea acrid spices. Grains Oats, millet, rice, corn Recommended: Spices Increase use of warming r spices, for example aniseed, Thermal For heat symptoms: cold; ginseng, honey, ginger, nature otherwise cool and neutral, cardamom, garlic, pepper, a little warm rosemary, cinnamon Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas Increase consumption of ginger tea, Flavor Sweet–neutral, sweet–cool c spiced tea, acridly spiced rice dishes, Preparation Steamed, boiled, and baked chicken dishes and beef dishes, methods in the oven warming and strengthening stocks and soups. Cold foods: Fruit Bananas, tomatoes, watermelons

Cool and neutral foods: Meat Duck, fatty meat, pork Fish Bass, tuna Gastrointestinal Disorders 193

Fruit Grapes, strawberries, apples Vegetables Carrots, eggplant, radish Grains Barley, millet, rice, wheat Dairy products Cheese, cow’s milk, farmer’s cheese, cottage cheese Soy products Tofu

Increase consumption of thermally c neutral meat dishes that are high in fat, oven-baked casseroles, dairy products, white cabbage, and white cabbage juice. 194 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Nausea and Emesis (Vomiting)

Infectious emesis Cold evil invading the stomach (han xie fan wei) Acute/chronic emesis, motion sickness Stomach qi vacuity and cold Emesis following overeating Food stagnation in stomach Emesis caused by emotional strain Liver qi invading the stomach (gan qi fan wei) Chronic emesis Stomach yin vacuity

According to TCM: ¢ Acute/Chronic Emesis “Rebellious” stomach qi, or stomach qi flaming upward, Stomach Qi Vacuity and Cold is often caused by external pathogenic factors, especially cold, and also by emotional strain, constitutional Symptoms weakness, and inappropriate diet. Differentiation Short, violent vomiting attacks with thin fluid (soft between emesis with or without food particles. stools, lack of appetite, pale face, exhaustion). Tongue: Pale, swollen; white fur Acute and chronic symptoms both respond Pulse: Weak !very well to nutritional therapy, acupuncture, and herbs. Causes Inappropriate diet, foods that are too cold, over- w General Nutritional Therapy work, constitutional weakness. Supplementing center burner, consumption of foods with downbearing effect. Therapy

¢ Expel cold Infectious Emesis Warm center burner Cold Evil Invading the Stomach PC-6 CV-12 + Moxa (Han Xie Fan Wei) p ST-36 + Moxa SP-4 + Moxa ST-21 + Moxa Symptoms Sudden violent vomiting, often with food particles. Headache, aversion to cold, tension in epigastrium, a Avoid: shivering, fever. Raw, cool, and cold foods. Tongue: Thick, swollen; thick white fur Pulse: Slow, deep r Recommended:

Causes Thermal nature Warm and hot Inappropriate diet; penetration of external pathogenic cold, such as ice-cold drinks and cold foods, Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas which burden stomach qi, lead to stagnation, and Flavor Sweet, acrid obstruct qi downbearing. Preparation methods Boiled, steamed, fried Therapy See below Vegetables Fennel, carrots Gastrointestinal Disorders 195

Beverages Tea made from fresh ginger; r Recommended: spiced teas with warming herbs, for example aniseed Thermal tea, fennel tea, cardamom, nature Neutral and warm pepper, cinnamon; warming Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas digestive liqueurs Flavor Sweet, acrid (disperses Grains Acridly seasoned rice or stagnation) millet dishes, oats, corn Preparation Boiled, steamed, braised Spices Aniseed, freshly grated method ginger, fennel Beverages Aniseed schnapps, espresso, fennel tea, coffee, high- Simmer a thumb-sized piece of ginger quality herbal liqueurs in 0.5 L (two cups) of water for c Other One to two teaspoons of vin- 20 minutes; drink while warm. egar Spiced teas Keep high-quality herbal liqueurs at hand; nonalcoholic alternatives ¢ Emesis Following Overeating c are fennel tea, freshly grated ginger, Food Stagnation in Stomach freshly brewed coffee with cinnamon and cardamom, espresso. Symptoms Nausea; sometimes vomiting of food particles, which brings relief; bloating in epigastrium, bad ¢ Emesis Caused by Emotional breath. Strain Tongue: Swollen; white, thick fur Liver Qi Invading the Stomach Pulse: Full, slippery (Gan Qi Fan Wei) Causes Symptoms Inappropriate diet (too many raw and cold foods, Nausea and belching, sometimes with sour food intake of cold beverages during meals, irregular particles; when anxious, pressure and bloating in meals, hasty eating, late evening meals). epigastrium; frequent belching, irritability. Tongue: Normal; sometimes white, thin fur; Therapy possibly reddened sides Pulse: Tense Disperse food stagnation Supplement center burner Causes PC-6 ST-36 CV-10 ST-20 Mostly as a result of emotional strain. Stagnation p ST-25 ST-45 LR-14 of free coursing of stomach qi, for example due to anxiety, anger, frustration. a Avoid: Excessive eating, main meals after 6 p.m., raw and Therapy cold foods. Calm liver Disperse qi stagnation LR-3 GB-34 PC-6 p CV-12 LR-14 ST-36 196 Clinical Examples a Avoid: Therapy Acrid, hot, and fatty foods. Nourish stomach ying r Recommended: Nourish fluids Warm center burner Thermal PC-6 ST-4 ST-44 nature Neutral, cool, and cold p ST-36 SP-9 KI-6 Organ network Liver, spleen, stomach Flavor Sour, sweet, (possibly for a a Avoid: short time a little acrid and Acrid, bitter, and hot foods, alcoholic beverages, cool to remove stagnation) acrid spices. Preparation methods Raw, steamed, boiled r Recommended: Fish Crab Thermal For heat symptoms: cold; Meat Rabbit nature otherwise cool and neutral, a little warm Fruit Apples, tangerines, grapefruit, pineapples, lemons Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas Vegetables Brown seaweed, fennel, cel- Flavor Sweet ery root (celeriac), spinach, Preparation Steamed, boiled, baked in water chestnuts, radish method the oven Beverages Peppermint tea, black tea, green tea, wheat beer Cold foods: Grains Wheat Fruit Bananas, tomatoes, Dairy products Yogurt watermelons Other Vinegar, caraway seed Cool and neutral foods: Abstain from eating meat; Meat Pork, duck, fatty meats c seven-day diet of freshly ground, Fish Tuna, bass cooked grain porridge and black tea. Fruit Grapes Vegetables Carrots, potatoes ¢ Chronic Emesis Grains Millet, rice, barley, corn Stomach Yin Vacuity Dairy products Cow’s milk, cheese, farmer’s cheese, cottage cheese Symptoms Recurrent vomiting with small amounts of fluids, Soy products Tofu dry mouth, lack of appetite, overall weakness, exhaustion. Increase consumption of fatty, Tongue: Red, chapped; no fur in center thermally neutral meat dishes, Pulse: Fast c casseroles baked in the oven, and dairy products. Causes Subsequently: Supplement center Following long-term illnesses with loss of body burner. fluids, overwork. Gastrointestinal Disorders 197

¢ Inflammatory Gastrointestinal Therapy Disorders, Crohn Disease, Supplement stomach and spleen Ulcerative Colitis CV-12 ST-36 BL-20 BL-21 p SP-3 ST-25 SP-10 ST-25 According to TCM: ST-27 CV-66 possibly Moxa Differential diagnosis is made according to symptoms, for example diarrhea, blood in stool, sloppy stools. a Avoid: Good results can be achieved by combining con- Raw, cool, and cold foods. ventional allopathic medicine, Chinese dietetics, acupuncture, and herbal therapy. r Recommended:

In severe cases, conventional medicine and Thermal !TCM should work hand in hand at the begin- nature Neutral and warm ning. As soon as the TCM treatment starts showing Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas good results, the intake of allopathic medications can be reduced and finally stopped. Such treat- Flavor Sweet ments should only be undertaken by an experi- Preparation Boiled, steamed enced TCM practitioner. methods Meat Chicken, beef Therapy Determined by the following TCM syndromes, Vegetables Fennel, sweet potatoes which usually occur simultaneously. Beverages Aniseed tea, fennel tea Grains Millet, oats, rice Stomach qi and spleen qi vacuity Spices Honey Liver qi invading the stomach and spleen (gan qi fan wei, gan qi fan pi) Large intestinal damp–heat (da chang shi re) Consistent rice and millet diet with warming vegetables and lightly Kidney yang vacuity c warming spices (especially cooked Spleen yang vacuity carrots, potatoes, coriander for stomach cold); fennel tea.

¢ Stomach Qi and Spleen ¢ Qi Vacuity Liver Qi Invading the Stomach and Spleen Symptoms (Gan Qi Fan Wei, Gan Qi Fan Pi) Loose, frequent, slimy and bloody stools; uncomfortable feeling of pressure in lower abdominal Symptoms region, lack of appetite, weight loss, overall weak- Cramplike pain attacks in epigastric region, bloat- ness, pale face. ing, belching, nausea, retching, heartburn (stom- Tongue: Pale, swollen ach qi flaming upward, heat), bitter taste in mouth, Pulse: Weak irritability. Tongue: Normal; possibly white, thin fur; possi- Causes bly reddened sides Weak spleen qi no longer able to retain blood; Pulse: Tense inappropriate diet, weakened qi due to liver attack brought on by unresolved emotional burdens. 198 Clinical Examples

Causes r Recommended: One of the most frequent causes of acute and chronic epigastric pain is stagnation obstructing Thermal stomach qi. Other common causes are stress, nature Cool, cold and neutral anger, hasty eating, as well as liver qi stagnation or Phase Earth ascending liver yang, rooted in liver yin vacuity or Flavor Sweet, bitter kidney yin vacuity. Preparation methods Raw, boiled, steamed ¢ Large Intestinal Damp–Heat Fruit Bananas, pears, honeydew (Da Chang Shi Re) melons, oranges Vegetables Eggplant, bamboo sprouts, Symptoms cucumbers, spinach Loose, slimy, purulent stools, sometimes mixed with blood; pain in hypochondrium (upper lateral Beverages Chamomile tea, black tea, region of the abdomen, marked by the lower ribs), green tea, wheat beer subfebrile temperatures in the afternoon, thirst. Spices Yellow gentian Tongue: Thick; firm fur, perhaps slimy Dairy products Yogurt Pulse: Fast, slippery Soy products Tofu Causes Weak spleen qi can no longer transform fluids; Increase intake of green inappropriate diet (hot, acrid, and fatty dishes) and or black tea. emotional stress lead to heat symptoms. c

Therapy ¢ Kidney Yang Vacuity Dispel heat Drain dampness According to TCM: ST-44 LI-11 BL-22 CV-12 Source of different vacuity syndromes, primarily vacuity p ST-25 SP-6 SP-9 PC-6 in center burner (stomach qi and spleen qi vacuity or spleen yang vacuity). a Avoid: Symptoms Acrid, warm, and hot foods. Morning diarrhea, stomach aches that get better with warmth, cold extremities, weakness in back and knees. Tongue: Pale with impression Pulse: Weak, deep

Causes Overwork, protracted illness, emotional stress, dissipated sex life, many births, exposure to cold.

Therapy

Warm kidney yang KI-3 KI-7 BL-23 p Moxa Gastrointestinal Disorders 199 a Avoid: a Avoid: Raw, cool, and cold foods. Raw and thermally cool or cold foods (e.g., salads, fruit, fruit juices), dairy products, denatured foods, r Recommended: frozen foods, canned foods.

Thermal Warm to hot (briefly), r Recommended: nature neutral Warming foods that supplement stomach and Organ network Kidney, spleen/pancreas spleen, seasoned with slightly warming spices.

Flavor Slightly salty, sweet Thermal Preparation nature Neutral, warm, hot methods Steamed, boiled, fried Flavor Sweet–warm, sweet– Meat Lamb, venison, beef, chicken neutral, possibly sweet–hot (briefly) Fruit Raisins, cherries, grapes Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas Vegetables Fennel, leeks Preparation Grains Oats, short-grain (glutinous) methods Boiled, steamed rice, corn Meat Chicken, lamb, beef Spices Aniseed, cinnamon, rosemary Fruit Steamed apples, blueberries Nuts and seeds Walnuts, chestnuts, black Vegetables Button or crimini/portobella sesame mushrooms, fennel, pureed carrots, leeks, sweet potatoes Master Soup with ingredients c that supplement the kidney organ Beverages Fennel tea network, such as carrots, leek, lamb. Grains Oats, millet, rice, rice soup, rice dishes lightly seasoned with warming spices (see ¢ below, warming effect), Spleen Yang Vacuity short-grain (glutinous) rice with cinnamon and honey Symptoms Spices Aniseed, honey, ginger, Loss of appetite, hiccoughs, nausea, retching, soft coriander, garlic, caraway stools, diarrhea. With yang vacuity: Cold extremi- seed, brown sugar ties, fatigue, exhaustion. Tongue: Pale, swollen with impression Pulse: Weak Cooked millet porridge with c cinnamon and raisins. Causes Inappropriate diet, overexertion, irregular intake of food, long, draining illnesses.

Therapy

Supplement stomach and spleen CV-12 ST-36 SP-6 p BL-20 BL-21 200 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Meteorism (Abdominal Distension)

“Acute” meteorism Qi stagnation with food retention in stomach and spleen “Recurrent” meteorism Stomach qi vacuity, spleen qi vacuity, stomach or spleen yang vacuity

According to TCM: Thermal Warm “Du zi zhang,” which means belly distention, or “gu nature chang/fu zhang,” which means drum/abdominal Organ network Stomach, spleen distention (Wiseman). Flavor Sweet, acrid Differential diagnosis according to repletion and vacuity Preparation Steamed, boiled conditions, primarily caused by dysfunction of spleen methods and stomach. Responds very well to nutritional therapy. Vegetables Fennel, carrots, leeks w General Nutritional Therapy Beverages Fennel tea, caraway seed tea, warming, acrid herbal Prepare dishes using warming spices, such as cara- liqueurs way seed, coriander, chili, and vinegar. Spices Aniseed, garlic, coriander, chili, star anise, pepper ¢ “Acute” Meteorism Qi Stagnation with Food Retention Increase use of warming spices, in Stomach and Spleen c improve eating habits, increase consumption of spiced teas. Symptoms Loud flatulence sounds, bloating, complaints worsen with pressure, possibly nausea and vomit- ¢ “Recurrent” Meteorism ing, bad breath, possibly constipation. Stomach Qi and Spleen Qi Vacuity Tongue: Thick yellow fur Stomach or Spleen Yang Vacuity Pulse: Fast, slippery Symptoms Causes Quiet flatulence sounds, bloating improves with Irregular food intake, inappropriate diet pressure and warmth, lack of appetite, fatigue, soft stools, light urine. Therapy Tongue: Pale; white fur Pulse: Weak Disperse qi stagnation p CV-12 ST-25 ST-36 Causes CV-6 LI-4 Inappropriate diet, constitutional weakness, overwork a Avoid: Therapy Raw, cool, and cold foods. Supplement stomach and spleen Recommended: r ST-36 + Moxa CV-4 + Moxa Give preference to slightly acrid foods and spices p SP-3 + Moxa ST-25 with digestive effect. Gastrointestinal Disorders 201 a Avoid: Warming spiced teas, warming Raw, cold, and cool foods. c spices with slightly acrid flavor, acridly seasoned dishes, for example, r Recommended: millet and rice casseroles. For children, especially fennel tea, cooked carrots, Thermal improvement of eating habits, regular meals. nature Neutral, warm, and hot Organ network Stomach, spleen, pancreas Flavor Sweet, acrid Preparation Boiled, steamed, fried Vegetables Fennel, cooked carrots Beverages Aniseed tea, warming herbal liqueurs Grains Oats, millet, rice Spices Aniseed, ginger, garlic, coriander, caraway seed 202 Clinical Examples

Main Symptom: Hiccough, Singult (Sighing, Sobbing)

Cold evil invading the stomach (han xie fan wei)

According to TCM: Therapy “Rebellious” or counterflow stomach qi; retching primarily due to cold in the stomach. Responds well to Downbear stomach qi acupuncture and nutritional therapy. Warm stomach CV-12 BL-17 PC-6 p CV-12 ST-36 ST-21 ¢ Cold Evil Invading the Stomach (Han Xie Fan Wei) r Recommended: Symptoms Thermal Heavy, deep belching which improves with heat; nature Neutral and warming lack of appetite, exhaustion. Tongue: Pale; white fur Organ network Stomach, spleen/pancreas Pulse: Slow Flavor Sweet

Causes Direction Downbearing Inappropriate diet, excess of raw and cold foods, Preparation Steamed, boiled, fried irregular eating habits, constitutional qi vacuity. methods Beverages Ginger juice Spices Aniseed, fennel, freshly grated ginger, coriander 203 Cardiovascular Disorders

General Weakness, Lack of Energy, Low Blood Pressure

Brief fatigue, exhaustion Spleen qi or spleen yang vacuity Lethargy, low blood pressure, dizziness Blood vacuity Chronic fatigue Kidney qi or kidney yang vacuity

According to TCM: Organ network Spleen, stomach, kidney No direct analogy, often appears in connection with dizziness, headaches, and lethargy. Responds very well Flavor/thermal Sweet–warm, sweet–hot, nature salty–warm, salty–hot (not to regular and supplementing nutritional therapy, for blood vacuity) moxibustion, and acupuncture, and possibly herbal therapy. Preparation Stews simmered for a long time, fried, grilled r Therapy Supplement spleen and stomach qi and yang: Supplement kidneys, spleen, and stomach Meat Duck, lamb, chicken, beef Replenish blood Supplement spleen and stomach: Fish Bass, salmon, tuna, eel p ST-36 + Moxa CV-3 + Moxa Fruit Cherries, peaches CV-6 + Moxa CV-12 + Moxa Vegetables Fennel, carrots, dates Supplement kidneys: KI-3 + Moxa KI-7 + Moxa Grains Short-grain (glutinous) rice, BL-23 + Moxa corn, millet, oats Replenish blood: Spices Chili, ginger, garlic, pepper, ST-36 CV-4 SP-6 cinnamon, possibly cooking LR-8 BL-17 BL-20 with alcohol Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, walnuts a Avoid: Coffee, which brings only brief improvement and To supplement stomach, spleen, and blood: is especially damaging (drying) to blood (blood Meat Chicken, beef vacuity). Thermally cool or cold foods (e.g., raw foods, salads, fruit juices). Excess dairy products, Beverages Grape juice irregular diet, cold meals, or uncooked foods, Grains Oats, rice insufficient use of spices. To supplement kidneys, qi, and yang: r Recommended: Choose foods that supplement spleen, stomach, Meat Venison, lamb and kidney and that have a warming and briefly Fish Mussels, oysters, sardines hot effect. Fruit Raisins, cherries Vegetables Fennel 204 Clinical Examples

Grains Oats, corn Spices Honey Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, walnuts

Short-term stimulation of heart qi and heart yang: Beverages Coffee, cocoa, black tea

Eat regularly, have an ample break- c fast, for example oatmeal. Eat more warm, fried, and grilled dishes, such as prawns with garlic and alcohol, and acrid venison and lamb dishes. Increase consumption of meat, simmered soups, or stews with beef or chicken. Increase use of warming spices.

For vegetarians: c Increase use of more supplementing and warming types of grain, for example oats, rice, and corn, with warming acrid spices or vegetables such as leek, ginger, garlic, carrots, and lentils. Cardiovascular Disorders 205

Main Symptom: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension with headache Ascendant liver yang (gan yang shang kang) Liver fire (gan huo) Liver wind (gan feng) Hypertension with headache Liver yin vacuity and blood vacuity Hypertension with tinnitus Kidney yin vacuity Hypertension with feeling of heaviness Phlegm and moisture retention

According to TCM: Therapy No direct analogy to hypertension. Treatment often in connection with headache or dizziness. Caused by Downbear ascending yang ascending yang, often rooted in liver yin vacuity or Calm liver kidney yin vacuity. Limited treatment possibilities if LR-2 GB-20 GB-43 hypertension has not manifested for more than one or p SI-20 LR-3 LI-4 two years. Recommended treatment: Combination of acupuncture, herbs, and nutritional therapy, combined with conventional allopathic medicine. a Avoid: Important: Weight reduction! Thermally warm and hot foods, especially acrid spices; alcoholic beverages, bitter–hot foods that damage liver yin (such as coffee), acrid foods, especially garlic. ¢ Hypertension with Headache Ascendant Liver Yang (Gan Yang Shang r Recommended: Kang), Liver Fire (Gan Huo), Liver Wind Foods that supplement liver blood and yin to drain (Gan Feng) the ascending yang and regulate liver qi flow.

Symptoms Organ network Liver Hypertension, hypertensive crisis, irritability, Flavor/thermal Sour–neutral, sour–cool, anger, insomnia, severe headaches, reddened eyes, nature sour–cold, possibly a little tinnitus, reddened face, dry mouth, bitter taste in sweet–cool and salty–cool mouth. Tongue: Red; white or yellow fur To cool liver heat and drain yang: Pulse: Lateral Fruit Apples, pears, oranges Causes Vegetables Wheat, mung beans, spinach Inappropriate diet (thermally hot foods, alcoholic Beverages Green tea beverages), often in combination with protracted, heavy emotional burdens, anger, rage, or stress can Dairy products Milk transform stagnant liver qi into ascending liver yang, in part also caused by external pathogenic To regulate liver qi and downbear qi: factors such as wind. Fish Crab, octopus Fruit Blueberries, lemons 206 Clinical Examples

Vegetables Dandelion, spinach, celery, a Avoid: tomatoes water chestnuts Thermally hot and drying foods (e.g., coffee, acrid Beverages Chinese chrysanthemum spices, excess salt), excess bitter foods (e.g., coffee, blossom tea, green tea black tea).

Recommended: To supplement liver yin and blood: r Foods that nourish liver yin and blood. Meat Duck, pork, chicken Fruit Grapes Organ network Liver Vegetables Spinach, celery, tomatoes Flavor/thermal Sour–neutral, sour–cool, nature sweet–neutral, sweet–cool Grains Black soy beans Preparation Boiled, steamed, raw Nuts and seeds Pine nuts, black sesame, methods sunflower seeds

To clear heat (cooling): Green tea, Chinese chrysanthemum Vegetables Dandelion, mung beans, blossom tea, freshly cooked wheat c spinach, tomatoes porridge, fresh celery juice, tomato juice, apple juice, pear juice. Reduce Beverages Green tea meat consumption for three weeks or longer. To nourish liver yin: Meat Rabbit, pork Fruit Mulberries, plums, lemons ¢ Hypertension with Headache Vegetables Spinach, celery, tomatoes, Liver Yin Vacuity and Blood Vacuity brown seaweed

Symptoms Grains Black soy beans, wheat Hypertension, dizziness (mild, but persistent), Oils and fats Olive oil tinnitus, numbness in extremities, heat sensation on palms and soles of feet, insomnia, blurred To supplement blood: vision, dry eyes, amenorrhea, scant menstruation, muscle weakness, dry, brittle nails. Fruit Cherries, grapes Tongue: Reddish; light yellowish fur Nuts and seeds Pine nuts Pulse: Fast, thin

Causes Green tea (too much is drying), Often appears in people of advanced age in combi- c freshly ground, cooked wheat nation with kidney yin vacuity, too little sleep at porridge, fresh celery juice; meat night, overwork, strong emotional burden, inap- dishes in moderation, for example propriate diet (e.g., excess alcohol, overly acrid beef liver, rabbit liver, pork liver; or, foods). preferably, fish (bass, eel, oysters)

Therapy

Nourish liver yin Drain ascending liver yang LR-3 BL-18 LR-8 p KI-3 Cardiovascular Disorders 207

¢ Hypertension with Tinnitus To nourish liver yin: Kidney Yin Vacuity Meat Rabbit, pork Fruit Plums, mulberries, lemons Symptoms Hypertension, sleep disturbances, memory loss, Vegetables Brown seaweed, spinach, back pain and knee pain, tinnitus, dizziness, impo- celery, tomatoes tence, nocturnal ejaculation. Grains Black soy beans, wheat Tongue: Reddish, chapped; little fur Oils and Fats Olive oil Pulse: Thin, fast

Causes Clear heat (cooling): Too little sleep at night, overwork, sexual excesses, Fruit Apples, kiwis drugs. Vegetables Mung beans, asparagus Therapy Beverages Green tea, wheat beer

Supplement kidney yin Millet porridge with raisins; freshly p KI-3 BL-23 ST-36 SP-6 ground, cooked wheat porridge, CV-6 CV-4 SI-20 c nourishing soup stocks with duck, pork, or chicken. Increase consump- a Avoid: tion of fish and seafood, for example Excess salt; bitter foods, for example coffee and octopus, oysters, carp, or bass. tea; foods with hot thermal nature and acrid flavor, for example garlic, cinnamon, alcohol. ¢ Hypertension with Feeling r Recommended: of Heaviness Foods that nourish liver yin and essence (jing). Retention of Phlegm and Damp Possibly also supplement liver yin. For heat vacuity symptoms: cool kidney and liver if needed. Symptoms Hypertension, feeling of heaviness in head and Organ network Liver, kidney extremities; slowed, “dragging” movement; feel- Flavor/thermal Sweet–neutral, sweet–cool, ing of pressure in chest, dizziness, fatigue, excess nature possibly briefly weight. sweet–warm, salty–cool, Tongue: Pale; thick white slimy fur sour–cool, sour–neutral Pulse: Slippery

Causes To nourish kidney yin: Primarily due to inappropriate diet (e.g., excess Meat Duck, chicken, pork fatty meat, dairy products, sweets), weakening of Fish Oysters, bass, carp, octopus spleen, obesity, stress, and overexertion. Fruit Cherries, mulberries, raisins, Therapy grapes

Grains Millet, wheat Dispel moisture and phlegm Dairy products Butter, cream Supplement spleen SP-9 ST-40 ST-36 CV-12 Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, black sesame, p PC-6 BL-20 BL-21 SP-2 walnuts 208 Clinical Examples a Avoid: Transform damp and phlegm: Raw foods, foods with cold thermal nature (fruit, c Porridge of short-grain (glutinous) fruit juices, salads), fatty types of meat, too much rice, increase consumption of soy dairy or citrus fruit, too many sweets (sugar espe- bean products and rice dishes with cially promotes the formation of phlegm and acrid flavor to transform damp and damp). phlegm: garlic, ginger, coriander, cardamom. r Recommended: Foods that supplement the spleen, are drying, Nourish spleen: drain fluids, and transform phlegm. Warm porridge in the morning, for example oats with raisins and Organ network Spleen, stomach cinnamon; corn dishes; stock and Flavor/thermal Sweet–warm, sweet– stews simmered for a long time with nature neutral, bitter–neutral, carrots, beef, poultry, acrid spices; bitter–warm, salty–neutral, fennel tea. salty–warm, possibly briefly acrid–neutral, acrid–warm

To transform phlegm and damp: Vegetables Radish Grains Barley, soy beans Spices Ginger, cardamom, garlic (warm: use sparingly), coriander

To nourish spleen: Meat Beef, lamb Fruit Raisins Vegetables Beans, fennel, carrots, potatoes Grains Oats, rice, corn Spices Aniseed, ginger 209 Eye Disorders

Inflammation r Recommended:

According to TCM: Thermal “Fire eye” (red and swollen eyes), often in spring and nature Cool and cold fall, caused by external wind–heat with repletion condi- Organ network Liver, gallbladder tions in liver and gallbladder (allergy). Flavor Bitter, sour, salty, possibly a Very good results can be achieved by combining little sweet acupuncture, nutritional therapy, and herbal therapy. Preparation Raw, boiled, steamed methods ¢ Conjunctivitis Wind–Heat To expel wind–heat:

Symptoms Vegetables Chinese (napa) cabbage, dandelion, tomatoes Itching and foreign-body sensation in eyes, red swollen eyes, headache, aversion to wind. Tongue: Reddened sides; thin yellow fur To cool heat: Pulse: Fast Vegetables Cucumbers, mung beans, spinach, tomatoes, water Causes chestnuts External wind–heat and draft during spring or fall Beverages Gentian tea, green tea, that irritate the eyes; wind–heat in the lung path- wheat beer way, often in combination with heat conditions in liver and gallbladder. Spices Chinese chrysanthemum blossoms, peppermint Therapy

Increase consumption of green tea, Expel external wind–heat mixture of tomato juice and melon Clear heat c juice, Chinese chrysanthemum Calm liver blossom tea. LI-11 LI-4 LU-11 GB-20 p GB-14 LR-2 LR-3 ST-2

a Avoid: Thermally warm and hot foods, acrid spices, alcoholic beverages, grilled foods, and foods fried or seared at high temperatures. 210 Skin Disorders

According to TCM: General disorder of lung organ network and defense qi, usually both from invasion of pathogenic factors such as wind, heat, damp, dryness. Other contributing factors: Emotions and inappropriate diet.

Neurodermatitis

Acute flare-up Wind–heat, heat in blood Chronic condition Blood vacuity and dryness

According to TCM: a Avoid: Thermally warm and hot foods, acrid spices. Combination of external pathogenic factors, such as wind, heat, dryness, emotional imbalance, and inappro- r Recommended: priate diet. Good therapeutic results can be achieved with dietary Thermal measures in combination with acupuncture and herbs. nature Cool and cold Organ network Liver, lung ¢ Acute Flare-Up Flavor Sour, a little sweet, a little bitter Wind–Heat, Heat in Blood

Symptoms To dispel wind–heat: Red, itching skin with flat pustules, partly oozing; Vegetables Chinese (napa) cabbage, crust formation, scaling, restlessness, irritability, carrots, dandelion, radish, hyperactivity. tomatoes Tongue: Pale, in part with red, raised dots; possibly thin, yellow fur To cool blood: Pulse: Rapid Vegetables Brown seaweed, mung beans, tomatoes, spinach, Causes celery External wind–heat penetrating skin, heat stagnation, enduring emotional strain and inappropriate Beverages Green tea, wheat beer diet causing heat in blood. Grains Wheat

Therapy T o moisten dryness: Fruit Bananas, pears, kiwis, water- Expel wind–heat melons Dispel heat in blood Grains Soy beans, wheat LI-11 SP-10 SP-6 Spices Honey p GV-14 BL-40 LR-2 GB-43 Nuts and seeds Peanuts, pine nuts Skin Disorders 211

Recommended: Dairy products Butter, yogurt, kefir, cream r

Soy products Soy milk, tofu Thermal nature Blood heat: cool, cold Blood vacuity: neutral, cool, a little warm Wind–heat and heat in blood: c Increase consumption of green tea; Organ network Liver, lung dandelion decoction, Belgian endive Flavor Sweet, a little sour hearts salad. Preparation Boiled, steamed, baked Moisten dry skin: Pear juice, baked bananas, increase To supplement blood: consumption of soy milk products. Meat Duck, chicken, liver, beef Fish Bass, octopus ¢ Chronic Conditions Fruit Cherries, plums, grapes Blood Vacuity and Dryness Nuts and seeds Pine nuts, black sesame Other Chicken eggs Symptoms Dry, dull skin with heavy scaling, possibly occa- To cool blood heat: sional itching (due to internal liver wind), pale lips, dizziness, forgetfulness, depression, amenorrhea, Fish Oysters chronic symptoms. Vegetables (Brown seaweed), dandelion, Tongue: Pale, pink, small spinach, celery, tomatoes Pulse: Thin, deep To nourish yin: Causes Vacuity of body fluids, for example from enduring Fish Eel heat, inappropriate diet, or wind–dryness, weak- Vegetables Carrots, potatoes ens the blood and leads to blood vacuity. Grains Wheat, spelt

Therapy Spices Honey Dairy products Butter, cow’s milk, cow’s milk Supplement blood cheese Moisten dryness Calm liver wind LR-3 SP-6 SP-10 p ST-36 KI-6 GV-14 a Avoid: Thermally hot foods; highly drying foods with bitter taste, for example coffee, black tea, acrid spices, too much salt. 212 Clinical Examples

Acne

According to TCM: Thermal Sour–neutral, sour–cool, bit- “Damp-heat which slumbers inside the skin.” Consistent nature/flavor ter–neutral, bitter–cool, dietary measures, in combination with acupuncture and possibly briefly bitter–cold herbal therapy, can achieve very good and lasting and sour–cold, sweet–neu- results. tral Organ network Liver, gallbladder, spleen ¢ Common Acne To expel dampness and heat: Damp–Heat, Possibly Liver Qi Vacuity Combined with Binding Depression of Liver Fruit Pears, tangerines Qi (Gan Qi Yu Jie) Vegetables Mung beans, asparagus Beverages Corn silk tea, green tea, Symptoms black tea Reddened to yellowish pustules on skin; impure, oily skin, inflammation, fatigue, exhaustion (with To cool heat: spleen qi vacuity), irritability, sleep disturbances Vegetables Belgian endive hearts, dan- (with heat, liver qi stagnation). delion, mung beans Tongue: Swollen; thick yellow fur Beverages Gentian tea Pulse: Weak Grains Wheat Causes Soy products Tofu Primarily inappropriate diet (e.g., excess of sweet, fatty, and thermally hot foods), emotional imbal- For liver stagnation, to move and cool blood : ance causing internal heat and intensified by inappropriate diet; spleen qi vacuity causes dampness. Vegetables Radish, spinach, celery, tomatoes Therapy Other Vinegar

Dispel heat and dampness To supplement spleen: Supplement spleen LI-11 LI-4 GB-20 LR-3 Meat Poultry, beef p SP-10 GV-10 SP-6 LU-5 Fruit Apples Vegetables Eggplant, cucumbers, carrots, fennel a Avoid: Grains Spelt, barley, millet, rice, Thermally hot and fatty foods (junk food), espe- wheat cially acrid spices (garlic, ginger, pepper), grilled Nuts and seeds Almonds, black sesame and smoked meat; sweets; meat consumption; with weak spleen, consumption of dairy products. Soy products Tofu r Recommended: Select foods that cool heat and remove dampness, calm and cool the liver, and supplement the spleen without creating heat and dampness. Skin Disorders 213

Tea cure: c For three to six weeks, drink 1 L (four cups) of corn silk tea daily. Increase consumption of green or black tea, millet porridge, and fresh vegetables, for example spinach, salads with mung bean sprouts, bamboo sprouts, tomatoes; give preference to spelt products. 214 Urogenital Disorders

Main Symptom: Cystitis (Urinary Tract Infections/Inflammation)

Nonbacterial cystitis Damp–cold in bladder Bacterial cystitis Damp–heat in bladder

According to TCM: r Recommended: Damp–cold or damp–heat often accumulate from Foods that remove dampness, supplement the external pathogenic sources, primarily cold in the lower lower burner, supplement kidney yang, and nour- burner (bladder). Good therapeutic results for recurrent ish the spleen. cystitis can be achieved with acupuncture and nutritional therapy. Organ network Kidney, bladder, spleen Flavor/thermal Bitter–neutral, bitter–warm, nature sweet–neutral, sweet–warm ¢ Nonbacterial Cystitis Preparation Boiled, fried Damp–Cold in Bladder methods

Symptoms Frequent desire to urinate with light, cloudy urine, To expel dampness: sometimes difficult micturition, feeling of heavi- Fish Carp, bass ness in hypogastrium (lower abdomen). Vegetables Adzuki beans Tongue: White, sticky fur at the root of the tongue Grains Corn Pulse: Slippery Spices Ginger, garlic

Causes To supplement See “Spleen/pancreas Overall lowered resistance (qi and yang vacuity, in spleen: Network,” page 67 part of the kidneys), often caused by external pathogenic cold, possibly following emotional strain, for example fear; excessive sexual activity To nourish kidney yang: weakens kidney yang. Fish Prawns, eel Meat Venison, lamb, poultry Therapy Fruit Cherries, raspberries Remove dampness Vegetables Fennel Dispel cold Beverages Corn silk tea Supplement bladder and kidneys SP-9 SP-6 CV-3 Grains Millet, corn, oats p CV-9 DV4 BL-23 KI-7 Spices Cloves, cinnamon, rosemary, fennel a Avoid: Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, walnuts, black Foods with cool and cold thermal nature, dairy sesame products, excess meat. Urogenital Disorders 215

Start by removing fluids, for example r Recommended: c with corn silk tea, adzuki beans, Foods that cool heat and expel dampness; if more soy products; then supplement needed, nourish spleen and supplement kidney qi. spleen and kidneys with warming dishes such as millet porridge with Organ network Kidney, bladder, spleen raisins and cinnamon, acridly spiced Flavor/thermal Salty–neutral, salty–cool, rice dishes, acridly spiced meat nature bitter–neutral, bitter–cool, dishes, fennel tea. possibly briefly bitter–cold, sweet–neutral, sweet–cool ¢ Bacterial Cystitis To expel damp–heat: Damp–Heat in Bladder Vegetables Adzuki beans, cucumbers, Symptoms mung bean sprouts, radish, Frequent desire to urinate with burning sensation tomatoes, celery during urination; dark yellow, cloudy urine; Beverages Dandelion tea, corn silk tea hematuria (blood in urine), fever, thirst. Grains Amaranth, barley Tongue: Red; thick, yellow, and sticky fur Pulse: Fast, sliding Nuts and seeds Job’s tears Soy products Soy milk Causes Exposure to external damp–heat or damp–cold To supplement spleen: that turns into heat, heavy emotional burden, weakened resistance. Use sweet–warm sparingly, better: sweet–neutral Therapy (otherwise dampness recurs)

Disperse heat To supplement kidney qi: Expel dampness Fruit Cherries, raspberries Open waterways of the lower burner CV-4 SP-9 SP-6 Vegetables Fennel p BL-39 BL-66 Grains Oats, corn, millet Spices Cinnamon, honey, rosemary In combination with conventional, allopathic medicine! Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, pistachios, walnuts a Avoid: To cool heat: Foods with warm and hot thermal nature (acrid Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, mung spices, alcoholic beverages), foods that produce beans dampness and heat (excess sweets, fatty, and thermally hot foods like chips, French fries, coke, junk Beverages Green tea food). Corn silk tea, dandelion tea, fresh radish juice, or celery juice 216 Clinical Examples

Incontinence, Enuresis (Bedwetting), Frequent Micturition (Urination)

Kidney Qi Vacuity, Kidney Yang Vacuity Organ network Kidney According to TCM: Flavor/thermal Sweet–warm, sweet– Kidney yang vacuity or unstable kidney qi due to weak nature neutral, possibly sweet–hot constitution, advanced age, or excessive sexual activity. (briefly) In children, “fear,” in addition to constitution, is often an Preparation initial factor that weakens the kidneys. Good thera- methods Boiled, fried, grilled peutic results can be achieved by combining nutrition, acupuncture, and herbs. Meat Venison, poultry, lamb Fruit Raspberries, raisins, cherries Symptoms Vegetables Fennel, leeks Urinary stuttering, incontinence, nocturnal incontinence in children, pale urine, nycturia, general Grains Oats, corn, millet weakness, exhaustion, pain in back and knees, diz- Spices Star anise, cinnamon, rose- ziness, sexual disorders, psychovegetative (psy- mary chosomatic) disorders, cold sensation with yang vacuity. Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, walnuts, black sesame Tongue: Pale, damp Pulse: Weak, deep Prawns sautéed in alcohol with acrid Causes spices and Chinese leek (garlic Weak constitution, advanced age, excessive sexual c chives); fried walnuts with leeks. activity; heavy emotional burden, especially shock and fear, which can traumatize or permanently Fresh oatmeal with raisins and cinna- weaken the kidneys. mon; three to four walnuts daily; acrid meat dishes, for example: veni- Therapy son, lamb, poultry with acrid spices; broth and stews with warming types Supplement and warm kidneys of meat and acrid spices; fennel tea. LI-7 LI-3 BL-23 + Moxa p GV-4 + Moxa CV-6 + Moxa HT-7 GV-20 a Avoid: Foods with cool and cold thermal nature (raw foods, fruit juices, dairy products). r Recommended: Foods that supplement kidney qi and kidney yang. Urogenital Disorders 217

Impotence, Weak Libido

Kidney Yang Vacuity r Recommended: Foods that nourish and warm kidney qi and kidney yang. According to TCM: Kidney yang vacuity extinguishes kidney fire: ming men Organ network Kidney (“life gate fire”). TCM believes that the essence (jing) should be conserved and treated with care. Conserva- Flavor/thermal Sweet–warm, sweet–hot, tion of the seminal fluid (jing) is viewed as health- nature sweet–neutral, acrid–warm, preserving and life-prolonging. Unnecessary loss of acrid–hot (only briefly) semen and sexual dissipation weaken kidney yang and Preparation kidney yin. methods Boiled, grilled, fried Meat Venison, poultry, lamb, goat, Symptoms duck Erectile dysfunction (no erection, or erections that last only a few seconds), spermatorrhea, frequent Fish Eel, shrimp, oysters, mussels micturition, general exhaustion, back and knee Fruit Raisins, cherries, raspberries pain, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision; dull, pale Vegetables Fennel, leeks complexion. Tongue: Pale; white fur, damp Grains Oats, corn Pulse: Deep, weak Spices Rosemary, star anise, cinnamon, garlic, ginger Causes Nuts and seeds Chestnuts, pistachios, black Constitutional weakness, overwork, dissipative sesame, walnuts, lentils sex life, emotional stress and fear, inappropriate diet, foods with overly cold and cool thermal nature. Shrimp fried in alcohol with acrid c spices, such as garlic; Therapy Spiced fried or grilled venison, lamb, Supplement and warm kidney yang or poultry; Support essence (jing) GV-4 + Moxa KI-3 KI-7 + Moxa Simmered stews with supplementing p BL-23 + Moxa CV-4 + Moxa types of meat (Master Soup); ST-36 GV-20 Increased use of acrid spices, for example garlic, cinnamon, chili, and a Avoid: ginger; during winter, roasted Raw and thermally cool and cold foods (fruit, sal- chestnuts and roasted walnuts; ads, raw foods), excess dairy products, sugar, excess coffee, alcoholic beverages, excess acrid Freshly cooked oat porridge with spices (prolonged use weakens kidney yang and cinnamon and raisins. kidney yin). 218 Gynecological Disorders

Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

According to TCM: Therapy Vacuity or disharmony of center burner. Very good results are often achieved with dietary measures and Supplement spleen and stomach acupuncture (PC-6), in severe cases in combination with Downbear counterflow qi herbs. Only with good knowledge of acupuncture: p PC-6 (most important point) During pregnancy, acupuncture and herbs ST-36 CV-12 GV-20 !should only be administered by practitioners SP-4 CV-13 with a very good knowledge of these therapies, since some acupuncture points are contraindicated during pregnancy (they increase labor pain, a Avoid: can increase pathological disease progression, and Raw and thermally cold and cool foods (salads, can lead to premature birth). With recurrent vom- fruit, fruit juices), excess dairy, excess of acrid iting, ensure sufficient intake of fluids, possibly spices. intravenous hydration with fluids by allopathic physician. r Recommended: Foods that supplement spleen and stomach and that downbear qi.

¢ Morning Sickness during Organ network Spleen, stomach Pregnancy Flavor/thermal Sweet–warm, sweet–neutral Spleen and Stomach Qi Vacuity nature Stomach and Spleen Yang Vacuity Preparation Steamed, boiled methods Symptoms Vomiting of watery fluids, in part with undigested Fruit Dates, raisins food particles after meals, loss of appetite, fatigue, Vegetables Fennel, carrots, sweet heart palpitations. Hpotatoes Tongue: Pale, damp; white fur Grains Millet, rice Pulse: Slow, slippery Spices Freshly grated ginger, malt Causes Vacuity and disharmony of center burner with upbearing stomach qi, in part caused by inappro- Tip: A pinch of freshly grated ginger daily in the priate diet (excess foods with cold thermal morning, for one to two weeks! nature), overburden. Or simmer a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger in 0.5 L (two cups) of water for 20 minutes; drink while warm. Gynecological Disorders 219

Rice or millet dishes, possibly with r Recommended: c mildly acrid spices, fennel tea, carrot Foods that cool liver heat and calm the liver, har- stew, stock from beef and carrots, monize and nourish spleen and stomach qi. chicken soup, millet porridge. Organ network Liver, spleen, stomach ! Foods that should be avoided during preg- Flavor/thermal Cool liver heat: sour–cool, nancy, according to TCM: nature sweet–cool Harmonize stomach and Acrid–hot foods (lead to heat and commotion in the spleen: sweet–cool, blood and disturb the fetus). Chili, garlic, cinnamon, sweet–neutral lamb, coffee (dries and heats up the blood). Excess black and green tea or red wine (dries the blood). Crab/cray- Preparation Boiled, steamed fish (cause too much heat in blood) and citrus fruit method (cooling/cold). To cool liver heat: Liver Qi Invading the Stomach Fruit Apples, strawberries (Gan Qi Fan Wei) Vegetables Eggplant, mung beans Symptoms Grains Pearl barley, wheat Vomiting of bitter, sour liquid; sour belching, bitter taste in mouth, strong thirst, tenseness in thorax Beverages Black tea, green tea and hypochondrium region, headaches, dizziness, To downbear ascending liver qi: irritability. Fish Oysters Tongue: Pale, reddened sides; thin, yellow or white fur Vegetables Spinach, celery, tomatoes Pulse: Slippery Beverages Green tea

Causes To harmonize and supplement stomach and Stagnation of heat in liver from emotional strain, spleen: inappropriate diet (overly acrid and hot foods) lead to repletion heat in the liver and attack the Vegetables Carrots, sweet potatoes stomach. Grains Corn, rice, millet Spices Honey Therapy Dairy products Cow’s milk Calm liver Nuts and seeds Almonds Supplement and harmonize stomach Downbear counterflow qi For upbearing stomach qi and stomach heat: Only with a good knowledge of acupunc- p ture: Fruit Bananas, kiwis, watermelons PC-6 ST-36 CV-12 LR-3 Vegetables Bamboo sprouts, dandelion, water chestnuts

May induce/promote labor; only with clear Beverages Green tea !indication. Page intentionally left blank 6 Chinese Dietetics At a Glance

Foods Classified According to Phase/Organ Network

Earth (SP–ST)...... 223 Metal (LU–LI) ...... 228 Water (KI–BL) ...... 231 Wood (LR–GB)...... 233 Fire (HT–SI) ...... 236

Foods from A to Z ...... 238 Page intentionally left blank Foods from A to Z 223

Foods Classified by Phase/Organ Network

Phase: Earth Organ Network: Spleen/Pancreas, Stomach

Food Thermal Flavor Effect Nature Vegetables Beet Neutral Sweet, slightly bitter Balances spleen and stomach qi Cabbage, green Neutral to Acrid, sweet Balances stomach, spleen warming Cabbage, red Neutral to Acrid, sweet Balances spleen, stomach, blood warming Carrot Neutral Sweet Supplements center burner Celery root Cooling Sweet, slightly bitter Liver, cools stomach heat (celeriac) Mushroom, button, Cooling Sweet Cools blood and heat crimini, portobella Chili (or chile) Warming Sweet, slightly acrid, Moves blood and qi pepper, capsicum bitter Chinese (napa) Neutral to cool- Sweet Cools heat, diuretic cabbage ing Cucumber Cold Sweet, slightly bitter Cools heat, diuretic Eggplant Cooling Bitter, slightly sweet Cools liver heat Fennel Warming Sweet, acrid Balances qi, harmonizes center burner Lettuce Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly bitter Cools heat Onion Warming Acrid, sweet Moves qi Parsnip Neutral to Sweet, bitter, acrid Balances stomach, intestine, lung warming Potato Neutral Sweet Strengthens spleen and stomach qi Pumpkin Neutral to Sweet Supplements center burner, warming strengthens qi Salsify Cooling Sweet, slightly bitter Balances blood and cools Sweet potato Neutral to Sweet Supplements center burner and warming balances qi and blood Tomato Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supports liver yin Zucchini Cooling Sweet, bitter Cools stomach heat and liver heat 224 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Legumes Black bean Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen, kidneys Chickpea Neutral Sweet Supplements qi, spleen, and kidneys (garbanzo bean) Fava (broad) bean Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen, drains dampness Green bean (snap Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and qi bean) Lentil, green Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Lentil, red Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements kidney and heart qi Peanut Neutral Sweet Moistens lungs Snap pea Neutral to slightly Sweet Supplements spleen cool Snow pea Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Soybean, black Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen, kidneys Soybean, green Neutral to cool Sweet Cools heat Soybean sprout Neutral Sweet Expels damp–heat Tofu Neutral to cool Sweet Cools heat White bean Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen Pea, yellow (yellow Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen split pea, dal)

Fruit Grape Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements blood and qi Apricot Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Banana Cold Sweet Moistens large intestine Currant Cooling Sweet, sour Astringent, forms body fluids and blood Cherry Warming Sweet Supplements body fluids Cranberry Cooling to neutral Sweet, sour Increases appetite Currant Cooling Sweet, sour Astringent, forms body fluids and blood Date Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and body fluids Elderberry Cool to neutral Bitter, sweet Balances intestine Fig (fresh) Neutral to warming Sweet Strengthens center burner, moistens Melon Cooling Sweet Cools heat Orange Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Foods from A to Z 225

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Peach Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Pear Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly sour Cools stomach heat, moistens Pineapple Cooling to neutral Sweet, sour Activates digestion Quince Neutral to cooling Slightly bitter Strengthens intestine Tangerine Cooling Sweet, sour Cools heat, supplements body fluids Watermelon Cold Sweet Cools heat

Grains Barley Cooling Sweet, slightly Drains dampness, cools heat salty Buckwheat Cooling Sweet, slightly Strengthens spleen bitter Corn (maize) Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood Millet Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and cools heat bitter Oats Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements blood and qi bitter Rice Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi, strengthens center burner Rye Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements and strengthens qi bitter Spelt Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements spleen qi Wheat Cooling Sweet Supplements qi, blood, and yin

Oils, Fats Butter Neutral to cool Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and qi, moistens Lard (pork) Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens Margarine Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Olive oil Cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens Peanut butter Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Peanut oil Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Soy oil Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens, laxative Sesame oil Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens skin and intestine Sunflower oil Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens, enriches yin 226 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Dairy Products Butter Neutral to cool Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and qi, moistens Buttermilk Cooling Sweet Moistens, cools heat Cheese, cow’s milk Neutral Acrid, salty Moistens Cheese, goat’s Warming Acrid, salty Warms center burner milk Cheese, sheep’s Warming Acrid, salty, Warms center burner milk sweet Cream Neutral Sweet, fatty Supplements qi and blood, moistens Cottage cheese Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly Moistens sour Cream cheese Cooling Sweet Moistens, cools heat Milk, cow’s Neutral to cooling Sweet Moistens, cools Milk, goat’s and Neutral to warming Sweet Moistens, warms sheep’s Sour cream Neutral to cool Sour, sweet Enriches yin Yogurt Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Enriches yin, cools intestine

Nuts, Seeds Coconut Cooling Sweet Expels heat Peanut Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens lung Peanut butter Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens

Pistachio Neutral Sweet, slightly Moistens skin and lung bitter Sesame, black Neutral Sweet, fatty Strengthens liver and kidneys Sesame, white Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and body fluids

Meat, Poultry, Eggs Beef Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Chicken Warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood Duck Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Supplements qi, blood and yin salty Egg, chicken Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and yin Goat Warming Sweet Supplements spleen and liver yang Goose Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen qi Hare, wild/rabbit Neutral to cooling Sweet Supplements spleen and qi Pork Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and yin Veal Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen qi Foods from A to Z 227

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Fish Bass Neutral Sweet, slightly salty Supplements qi and blood Crab (sweet water) Cold Sweet Enriches yin Eel Warming Sweet, fatty Supplements qi and blood Salmon Warming Sweet, slightly salty, Supplements qi and blood fatty Trout Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements center burner

Spices Aniseed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Caraway Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Chili pepper Hot Acrid Expels cold Curry Warming to hot Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestion Fennel seed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Honey Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Paprika Mildly warming Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion sweet Saffron Neutral to cooling Sweet, bitter, Balances liver, spleen acrid

Herbs Chamomile Neutral to cooling Slightly bitter, Harmonizes digestion sweet Corn silk Cooling Slightly sweet Astringent, cools damp–heat Licorice Neutral Very sweet, Stimulates digestion, supplements slightly bitter center burner Onion Warming Acrid, sweet Loosens phlegm

Beverages, Alcoholic Beverages Beer Cooling to cold Bitter, sweet Cools liver heat Liqueur Hot Acrid, bitter– Dispels internal cold sweet 228 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Phase: Metal Organ Network: Lung–Large Intestine

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Vegetables Asparagus Cooling Sweet, bitter Supplements kidney yin and lungs, diuretic Cauliflower Neutral to cool Sweet, slightly Cools stomach heat and lungs bitter Chili pepper Warming Sweet, slightly Moves qi and blood acrid, bitter Fennel Warming Sweet, acrid Balances qi, harmonizes center burner Garden cress Cooling Acrid Balances qi and blood Garlic Warming to hot Acrid Moves qi, loosens phlegm Green onion Warming Acrid Moves qi, expels cold Kohlrabi Neutral Acrid, sweet Supplements liver, gallbladder and kidneys Leek Warming Acrid, sweet Moves qi, warms center burner Onion Warming Acrid, sweet Moves qi Radish, icicle, Neutral to cool Acrid to mildly Loosens phlegm in lungs and daikon (raw) acrid (daikon) stomach Radish, small, Cooling Acrid Loosens blood stagnation, blood round heat Arugula (rocket, Neutral to cooling Acrid, bitter Stimulates appetite rucola) lettuce

Legumes Bean, black Neutral Sweet Supplements kidneys and spleen

Oils Peanut oil Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Peanut butter Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens

Nuts, Seeds Peanut Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens lung Pistachio Neutral Sweet, slightly Moistens skin and lung bitter

Meat, Poultry Duck Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Supplements qi, blood, and yin salty Foods from A to Z 229

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Spices Caraway seed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Cardamom Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter Cayenne pepper Hot Very acrid Expels cold Cinnamon bark Warming to hot Acrid Astringent, expels cold Cinnamon twig Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestive organs Clove Warming Bitter, slightly Expels damp cold sweet Coriander Neutral to cooling Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion Ginger Warming to hot Acrid, slightly Loosens phlegm sweet Nutmeg Warming Acrid Astringent, expels damp–heat Pepper (season- Warming to hot Very acrid Enriches yang, expels cold ing), black (ripe) Pepper Warming Acrid Enriches yang, moves qi (seasoning), green (unripe) Pepper Warming to hot Very acrid Enriches yang, expels cold (seasoning), white (fully ripe) Turmeric Warming Bitter, acrid Dries phlegm–cold (curcuma)

Herbs Basil Warming Acrid, bitter, Stimulates digestion, loosens slightly sweet phlegm Garden cress Cooling Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion, strengthens bitter immune system Fennel seeds Warming Slightly acrid, Stimulates digestion sweet Garlic Warming to hot Acrid, slightly Dispels phlegm–cold salty Horseradish Warming, heating Very acrid Enriches yang Onion Warming Acrid, sweet Loosens phlegm Sage Warming Bitter, acrid Mildly expels phlegm–cold Savory Warming Acrid, bitter, Stimulates digestion, loosens slightly sweet phlegm Thyme Warming Bitter, acrid Dries, moves qi, loosens phlegm Watercress Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter 230 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Alcoholic Beverages Liqueur, spirits Hot Acrid, bitter, Dispel internal cold sweet Foods from A to Z 231

Phase: Water Organ Network: Kidney–Bladder

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Vegetables Asparagus Cooling Sweet, bitter Supplements lung and kidney yin, diuretic

Fruit Raspberry Cooling Sweet, sour Mild laxative, diuretic Strawberry Cooling Sweet, sour Forms body fluids and blood

Grains Barley Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools heat salty Corn (maize) Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood Millet Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi bitter Wheat Cooling Sweet Supplements qi, blood, and yin

Oils Walnut oil Warming Sweet, fatty Supplements kidney yang

Nuts, Seeds Sesame, black Neutral Sweet, fatty Strengthens liver and kidneys Chestnuts Warming Sweet Strengthens spleen and kidneys Sunflower seeds Neutral Sweet, fatty Nourishes yin, moistening Walnuts Warming Sweet, bitter, Strengthens lungs and kidneys fatty

Meat Goat Warming Sweet Supplements spleen and kidney yang Lamb Warming to hot Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney–spleen yang bitter Pheasant Warming Sweet, slightly Supplements center burner sour Pork Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and yin Venison, red deer, Warming Sweet Supplements qi, blood, and yang blacktailed deer Venison, reindeer, Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood moose, elk, roe deer Wild boar (pig) Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and yang 232 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Fish Bass Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Caviar Cold Salty Supplements kidney yin Crab (sweet water) Cold Sweet, slightly Enriches yin salty Crayfish Cold Sweet Enriches yin Eel Warming Sweet, fatty Supplements qi and blood Lobster Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney qi and kidney salty yang Mussel Warming Salty Supplements liver yang and kidney qi and yang Octopus (squid) Neutral to cooling Sweet, salty Supplements qi, blood, and yin Oyster Neutral to cooling Sweet, salty Supplements liver, kidneys, blood, and yin Prawn Warming Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney qi and kidney salty yang Salmon Warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty, fatty Sardine Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Sea snail (conch) Neutral Sweet, salty Supplements liver yin and kidney yin Trout Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements center burner Tuna Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty

Spices Miso Neutral to cooling Salty, slightly Harmonizes digestion sour Salt Cooling to cold Salty Softening Seaweed Cooling to cold Salty, slightly Cools blood heat sweet

Drinks Mineral water Neutral, cooling to Salty, bland Enriches yin cold Foods from A to Z 233

Phase: Wood Organ Network: Liver–Gallbladder

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Vegetables Artichoke Cooling Bitter, slightly Cools liver heat sweet Eggplant Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools blood and heat bitter Sauerkraut Cooling Sour Cools heat from intestine and stomach Spinach Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools liver and blood bitter Tomato Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supports liver yin

Fruit Apple Neutral to cooling Slightly sour, Stops diarrhea sweet, Apricot Neutral to warming Sour, sweet Supplements body fluids Currant Cooling Sour Astringent, forms body fluids and blood Blueberry Cooling Sour Astringent, inhibits diarrhea Cranberry Cooling to neutral Sour Increases appetite Gooseberry Cooling Sour Cools heat, cools intestine Grapefruit Cooling to cold Sour Quenches thirst, downbears qi Kiwi Cold Sour, sweet Cools heat Lemon Cold Very sour Expels heat Mango Cooling Sour, sweet Forms body fluids and blood Orange Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Peach Neutral to warming Sour, sweet Supplements body fluids Pear Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Cools stomach heat, moistens sour Pineapple Cooling to neutral Sweet, sour Activates digestion Plum Neutral to warming Sour, sweet Cools liver heat Raspberry Cooling Sour, sweet Mild laxative, diuretic Rhubarb Cold Sour Astringent, balances intestine Strawberry Cooling Sweet, sour Forms body fluids and blood Tangerine Cooling Sour Supplements body fluids 234 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Grains Grünkern Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools liver heat (dried, unripe spelt sour kernels) Rye Neutral Sweet, slightly Strengthens and supplements qi bitter Spelt Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements spleen qi Wheat Cooling Sweet Supplements qi, blood, and yin Wheat bran Cooling Sweet Strengthens center burner Wheat flour Neutral to warming Sweet Moistens, enriches yin Wheat germ Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly Cools liver heat acrid

Dairy Products Cream cheese Cooling to cold Slightly sour Moistening Sour cream Neutral to cool Sour, sweet Enriches yin Yogurt Cooling to cold Sour, sweet Enriches yin, cools intestine

Meat Rabbit Neutral to cooling Slightly sour Cools blood

Spices Vinegar Warming Sour, slightly Moves qi, loosens stagnation, acrid improves circulation, stimulates gastric juices

Herbs Peppermint Cooling Acrid, slightly Cools heat, loosens phlegm sweet Rhubarb root Cold Bitter Astringent for intestine, loosens constipation Sorrel Cooling Sour Diuretic, cools heat Wood sorrel Cooling Sour Cools blood heat (shamrock, oxalis acetosella)

Beverages, Alcoholic Beverages Beer Cooling to cold Bitter, sweet Cools liver heat Bread juice Cooling Sour Preserves body fluids Cider Cooling Sour Cools heat, preserves body fluids Cider vinegar Neutral Sour, slightly Moves qi, loosens stagnation, acrid stimulates appetite Red wine vinegar Warming Sour Moves qi, loosens stagnation, stimulates appetite Foods from A to Z 235

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Sherry vinegar Warming Sour Moves qi, stimulates appetite Tea, black Neutral Bitter Stimulates stomach and intestine Tea, green Cooling Bitter Supplements heart and liver yin White wine Cooling Sour, sweet Enriches yin 236 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Phase: Fire Organ Network: Heart–Small Intestine

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Vegetables Belgian endive Cooling Bitter, sweet Cools liver heat hearts Dandelion Cooling to cold Bitter Cools liver heat

Fruit Elderberry Cooling to neutral Bitter, sweet Balances intestine Peach Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Watermelon Cold Sweet Cools heat

Grains Oats Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and yang bitter

Spices Cardamom Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter Chili pepper Hot Acrid Expels cold Cinnamon bark Warming to hot Acrid Astringent, expels cold Cinnamon twigs Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestive organs Coriander Neutral to cooling Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion Cumin Warming Bitter, acrid Dries phlegm–cold Curry Warming to hot Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestion Paprika Mildly warming Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion sweet Rose paprika Warming Bitter, acrid Expels damp–cold (sweet paprika) Saffron Neutral to cooling Sweet, bitter, Balances spleen and liver acrid Turmeric Warming Bitter, acrid Dries phlegm–cold (curcuma)

Herbs Basil Warming Acrid, bitter, Stimulates digestion, loosens slightly sweet phlegm Bitter orange peel Neutral to cooling Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion acrid, slightly sweet Dandelion Cooling to cold Bitter Cools liver heat Linseed Warming Sweet, bland Protects mucous membrane Foods from A to Z 237

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Marjoram Neutral Bitter, acrid Astringent, calms digestion Rosemary Warming Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion, antispasmodic Sage Warming Bitter, acrid, Mild clearing of phlegm–cold Thyme Warming Bitter, acrid Dries, moves qi

Beverages, Alcoholic Beverages Grain coffee Neutral Bitter Stimulates stomach, liver, and (from roasted gallbladder barley, spelt, figs, acorns, etc.) Cocoa Neutral Bitter, sweet Strengthening, stimulating Coffee Warming Bitter Stimulates heart and circulation Honey Neutral Very sweet Supplements qi, moistens Liqueur, spirits Hot Acrid, bitter, Dispel internal cold sweet Red wine Warming Bitter, acrid, Enriches yang sweet Tea, black Neutral Bitter Stimulates stomach and intestine Tea, green Cooling Bitter Supplements heart and liver yin 238 Foods from A to Z

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect

A Almond Neutral Sweet, slightly Moistens lung bitter Alpine wild garlic Neutral to warming Acrid Detoxifies, moves qi (allium ursinum) Angelica Warming Acrid, bitter, Supplements center burner and sweet digestion Aniseed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Apple Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Remedies diarrhea sour Apricot Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Arugula (rocket, Neutral to cooling Acrid, bitter Stimulates appetite rucola) Arnica Neutral Bitter, slightly Supplements heart qi and blood sweet, acrid circulation Artichoke Cooling Bitter, slightly Cools liver heat sweet Asparagus Cooling Sweet, bitter Supplements lungs, kidney yin B Banana Cold Sweet Moistens large intestine Barley Cooling Sweet, slightly Expels heat salty Bay leaf (bay laurel) Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestion Basil Warming Acrid, bitter, Stimulates digestion, loosens slightly sweet phlegm Bass Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Bean, adzuki Neutral Sweet, sour Balances qi and blood, balances yin (spleen) Bean, black Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen and kidneys Bean, broad Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen, removes (fava bean) dampness Bean, green Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and qi Bean, white Neutral to cool Sweet Supplements spleen Beef Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Beer Cooling to cold Bitter, sweet Cools liver heat Beet Neutral Sweet, slightly Balances spleen and stomach qi bitter Foods from A to Z 239

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Belgian endive Cooling Bitter, sweet Cools liver heat hearts Birch leaf Cooling Slightly bitter, Detoxifies, cools heat acrid Bell pepper, green Cooling Slightly acrid, Moves qi and blood bitter Bell pepper, Neutral Sweet, slightly Strengthens center burner orange and red acrid, bitter Bell pepper, green Cooling Slightly acrid, Moves qi and blood bitter Bitter orange peel Neutral to cooling Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion acrid, slightly sweet Blackberry Cooling Sweet, sour Astringent, forms body fluids and blood Blackthorn Cooling Sour Astringent, balances intestine Blueberry Cooling Sweet, sour Astringent, inhibits diarrhea Bone marrow Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens, supplements Borage Cooling to cold Bitter, slightly Moistens, anti-inflammatory sweet, salty Brazil nut Neutral Sweet, slightly Strengthens spleen, lung bitter Bean, broad (fava Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen, removes bean) dampness Broccoli Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools liver and blood bitter Bread juice Cooling Sour Retains body fluids Buckwheat Cooling Sweet, slightly Strengthens spleen, loosens phlegm bitter Butter Neutral to cool Sweet, fatty Supplements blood, qi, moistens Butterbur root Warming Slightly acrid, Loosens phlegm–cold bitter Buttermilk Cooling Sweet Moistens, cools heat

C Cabbage, green Neutral to warming Acrid, sweet Balances stomach and spleen Cabbage, red Neutral to warming Acrid, sweet Balances spleen, stomach, blood Canola oil Warming Sweet, fatty Moistens, laxative Caraway seed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Cardamom Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter 240 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Carp Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Carrot Neutral Sweet Supplements center burner Cashew nut Neutral Sweet, fatty Strengthens stomach and intestine Cauliflower Neutral to cool Sweet, slightly Cools lungs, stomach heat bitter Caviar Cold Salty Supplements kidney yin Cayenne pepper Hot Very acrid Expels cold Celery root Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools stomach heat and liver heat (celeriac) bitter Celery (stalk) Cooling Slightly salty Cools stomach and liver heat, and bitter loosens qi stagnation

Chamomile Neutral Slightly bitter, Harmonizes digestion sweet Chard Cooling Sweet, bitter Cools lung heat Cheese, cow’s milk Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Moistens, warming Cheese, goat’s Warming Acrid, salty, Warming milk moderately sweet Cheese, sheep’s Warming Acrid, salty, Warming milk moderately sweet Cherry Warming Sweet Nourishes blood Chervil Cooling to neutral Bitter, slightly Cools blood heat sweet Chestnut Warming Sweet Strengthens spleen and kidneys Chicken Warming Sweet Supplements blood and qi Chicken egg Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and yin Chickpea Neutral Sweet Strengthens spleen qi and kidneys (garbanzo) Chili pepper Hot Acrid Expels cold Chinese (napa) Neutral to cooling Sweet Cools heat, diuretic cabbage Chinese leek (garlic Warming Acrid Moves qi, strengthens center burner chives) Chives Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter Cider Cooling Sour Cools heat, preserves body fluids Cider vinegar Neutral Sour, slightly Stimulates appetite acrid Foods from A to Z 241

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Cinnamon bark Warming to hot Acrid Astringent, expels cold, diarrhea remedy Cinnamon twig Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestive organs Clove Warming Acrid Expels damp cold Cocoa Neutral Bitter, sweet Strengthening, stimulating Coconut Cooling Sweet Clears heat Coconut oil Cooling Sweet, fatty Moistening Coffee Warming Bitter Stimulates heart yang Coriander Neutral to cooling Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion Corn Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood Corn silk Cooling Slightly sweet Astringent, clears damp–heat Cottage cheese Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly Moistening sour Crab (sweet water) Cold Sweet Enriches yin Cranberry Cooling to neutral Sweet, sour Increases appetite Crayfish Cold Sweet Enriches yin Cream Neutral Sweet, fatty Supplements qi and blood, moistens Cream cheese Cooling Sweet Moistens, cools heat Cress, garden Cooling Acrid Balances qi and blood Cucumber Cold Sweet, slightly Cools heat, diuretic bitter Cumin Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion, warms center burner Currant, red Cooling Sweet, sour Astringent, forms body fluids and blood Curry Warming to hot Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestion

D Dandelion Cooling to cold Bitter Cools liver heat Date Neutral Sweet Supplements blood and body fluids Dill Warming Acrid, slightly Stimulates appetite bitter Duck Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Supplements qi, blood, and yin salty

E Eel Warming Sweet, fatty Supplements qi and blood Eggplant Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools blood and cools heat bitter 242 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Elderberry Cooling to neutral Bitter, sweet Balances intestine Elderberry flowers Neutral to cooling Bitter, sweet, Expels damp–heat from lungs slightly acrid

F Fennel (bulb) Warming Sweet, acrid Balances qi, harmonizes center burner Fennel seed Warming Acrid, sweet Stimulates digestion Fenugreek seed Warming Very bitter, Loosens phlegm, strengthens acrid Fig (fresh) Neutral to warming Sweet Strengthens center burner, moistens Flax seed (linseed) Warming Sweet, bland Protects mucous membrane Fumaria Cooling Bitter, slightly Loosens liver qi stagnation salty

G Garlic Warming to hot Acrid Moves qi, loosens phlegm Ghee Neutral Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and qi, moistens Ginger Warming to hot Acrid, slightly Loosens phlegm–cold sweet Goat meat Warming Sweet Supplements spleen yang and kidney yang Goldenrod Cooling Bitter Astringent, expels damp–heat from bladder Goose Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen qi Gooseberry Cooling Sweet, sour Cools heat, cools intestine Grain coffee Neutral Bitter Stimulates stomach, liver and (from roasted gallbladder barley, spelt, chicory root, figs, acorns, etc.) Grape Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements blood and qi Grapefruit Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Quenches thirst, downbears qi Green bean Neutral Sweet Strengthens qi and blood Green (spring) Warming Acrid Opens stomach and lungs onion Grünkern Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools liver heat (dried, unripe spelt sour kernels) Foods from A to Z 243

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect

H Hazelnut Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Supplements spleen and kidneys Herring Neutral cooling Sweet, slightly Supplements blood and qi salty Honey Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Horseradish Warming, heating Very acrid Enriches yang, expels wind–cold Horsetail Cold Slightly bitter, Astringent, expels heat, dries bland dampness

I Iceland moss Cooling Bitter, slightly Enriches yin, relieves cough (lichen) sweet Irish moss (carra- Cooling Slightly sweet, Enriches yin, cools blood heat geen; a seaweed) salty, insipid

J Jasmine blossoms Warming Acrid, slightly Supplements lower burner sweet Juniper berry Warming Slightly acrid, Diuretic bitter

K Kale Neutral to warming Acrid, sweet Balances stomach and spleen Kiwi Cold Sweet, sour Cools heat Kohlrabi Neutral Acrid, sweet Supplements liver, gallbladder and kidneys

L Lady’s mantle Cooling to cold Slightly bitter Astringent, cools blood heat Lamb Warming to hot Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney and spleen bitter yang Lard, pork Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens Lavender Cooling Slightly bitter, Calming, analgesic acrid Leek Warming Acrid, sweet Moves qi, warms Center burner Lemon Cold Very sour Expels heat Lemon zest Cooling Bitter, slightly Expels heat, phlegm and toxins acrid Lentil, green Neutral Sweet Supplements qi and blood Lentil, red Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi of kidneys and heart Lettuce (e.g., Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly Cools heat butter and similar bitter types) 244 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Licorice Neutral Very sweet, Stimulates digestion slightly bitter Linden flower Neutral to cooling Sweet, slightly Expels wind–heat, calms acrid Liqueur Hot Acrid, bitter, Expels internal cold sweet Lobster Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney qi and kidney salty yang Lovage Cooling Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion Lychee Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements qi and blood

M Marjoram Neutral Bitter, acrid Astringent, calms digestion Mango Cooling Sweet, sour Forms body fluids and blood Margarine Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Marigold Neutral Bitter, sweet, Expels heat and toxins salty, acrid Marshmallow Cooling Slightly bitter, Loosens phlegm, softens salty, slightly acrid Melon Cooling Sweet Cools heat Milk, cow’s Neutral to cooling Sweet Moistens, cools Milk, goat’s Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements spleen yang and kidney yang Milk, sheep’s Neutral to warming Sweet Moistens, warming Milk thistle Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates liver and gallbladder Millet Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and cools heat bitter Mineral water Neutral, cooling to Salty, bland Enriches yin (kidneys) cold Mirabelle (small, Cooling Sweet, sour Cools heat yellow plum) Miso Neutral to cooling Salty, slightly Stimulates digestion sour Motherwort Cooling Bitter, slightly Supplements heart qi, expels heat acrid Mugwort Warming Very bitter, Stimulates liver and stomach qi slightly acrid Mushroom, button Cooling Sweet Cools blood and heat or crimini/portobella Foods from A to Z 245

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Mussel Warming Salty Supplements liver and kidney qi and yang Mustard Warming Acrid, bitter Stimulates digestion, lipolysis (prepared) (digestion of fats) Mustard seeds Warming Acrid Expels damp cold

N Nutmeg Warming Acrid Astringent, expels damp cold

O Oats Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplement nerves and qi bitter Octopus (squid) Neutral to cooling Sweet, salty Supplements qi, blood and yin Olive oil Cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens, anti-inflammatory Onion Warming Acrid, sweet Moves qi, loosens phlegm Orange Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Orange blossom Neutral Bitter, sweet, Calms, insomnia remedy slightly acrid Oregano Neutral Slightly acrid, Stimulates digestion bitter Oyster Neutral to cooling Sweet, salty Supplements liver, kidneys, blood and yin

P Papaya Neutral Sweet, slightly Balances stomach qi bitter Paprika, mild Warming Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion sweet Parsley leaf Warming Slightly acrid, Stimulates digestion, diuretic bitter Parsley root Neutral Sweet, bland, Diuretic, supplements kidney yin slightly acrid Parsnip Neutral to warming Sweet, bitter, Balances stomach, intestine, lung acrid Passion fruit Cooling Slightly bitter, Calms, supplements heart yin bland Peach Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Supplements body fluids Peanut Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens lungs Peanut butter Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Peanut oil Neutral Sweet, fatty Moistens Pear Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools stomach heat sour 246 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Pea, green Neutral to slightly Sweet Supplements spleen cool Pea, yellow Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen Pepper, black (ripe; Warming to hot Very acrid Enriches yang, expels cold seasoning, not bell pepper) Pepper, green Warming Acrid Enriches yang, stimulates qi (unripe; seasoning, coursing not bell pepper) Pepper, white (fully Warming to hot Very acrid Enriches yang, expels cold ripe; seasoning, not bell pepper) Peppermint Cooling Acrid, slightly Downbears heat, loosens phlegm sweet Pheasant Warming Sweet, slightly Supplements center burner sour Pineapple Cooling to neutral Sweet, sour Activates digestion Pistachio Neutral Sweet, slightly Moistens lung and skin bitter Plantain (ribwort) Cold Bitter Mildly astringent, anti-inflammatory Plum Neutral to warming Sweet, sour Cools liver heat Pollen, bee Neutral Sweet–acrid, Supplements heart bitter Pork Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and yin Potato Neutral Sweet Strengthens spleen, supplements qi and heals inflammation Prawn Warming Sweet, slightly Supplements kidney qi and kidney salty yang Primrose Neutral Slightly sweet, Alleviates pain, rheumatism/ acrid arthritis Pumpkin Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements center burner, strengthens qi

Q Quail Neutral Sweet Supplements qi of center burner Quince Neutral to cooling Slightly bitter Supplements intestine Foods from A to Z 247

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect

R Rabbit Neutral to cooling Sweet Cools blood Rabbit, wild Neutral to cooling Sweet Supplements spleen qi Radish Cooling Acrid Loosens blood stasis, blood heat Radish, icicle or Neutral to cool Acrid Loosens phlegm in lungs, stomach daikon (raw) Raspberry Cooling Sweet, mildly Laxative, diuretic sour Raspberry leaf Cooling Slightly bitter Astringent, expels damp–heat Red clover Neutral to cooling Slightly bitter, Expels toxins, damp–heat bland Red wine Warming Bitter, acrid, Enriches yang sweet Red wine vinegar Warming Sour Stimulates appetite Rhubarb Cold Sour Astringent, balances intestine Rhubarb root Cold Bitter Astringent for intestine, loosens constipation Rice Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi, strengthens center burner Rose paprika Warming Bitter, acrid Expels damp–cold Rosemary Warming Bitter, acrid Stimulates digestion, antispasmodic Rye Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements and strengthens qi bitter

S Saffron Neutral to cooling Sweet, bitter, Balances liver, spleen acrid Sage Warming, slightly Bitter, acrid, Expels phlegm–cold hot Salmon Cooling Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty, fatty Salsify Cooling Sweet, slightly Balances and cools blood bitter Salt Cooling Salty Anti-inflammatory, softens Sardine Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Sauerkraut Cooling Sour Expels heat from intestine and stomach Savory Warming Acrid, bitter, Stimulates digestion, loosens slightly phlegm sweet 248 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Schnapps Hot Acrid, bitter, Expels internal cold (high-proof spirit) sweet Sea snail (conch) Neutral Sweet, salty Supplements liver qi and yang and kidney qi and yang Seaweed Cooling to cold Salty, slightly Cools blood heat sweet Sesame, black Neutral Sweet, fatty Strengthens liver and kidneys Sesame, white Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements blood and body fluids Sesame oil Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens skin and intestine Shark Neutral Sweet, slightly Supplements qi, blood and yin salty Shepherd’s purse Cooling Slightly bitter Astringent, supplements blood, clears heat Sherry vinegar Warming Sour Moves qi, stimulates appetite Shrimp Cold Sweet, slightly Enriches yin salty Soft drinks, sodas Cooling to cold Very sweet Exhaust center burner (artificial) Sorrel Cooling Sour Diuretic, cools heat Sour cream Neutral to cooling Sour, sweet Nourishes yin Soybean oil Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens, laxative Soybean, black Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen and kidneys Soybean, green Neutral to cold Sweet Expels heat Soybean, yellow Neutral to cooling Slightly sweet Expels heat Soybean oil Neutral to warming Sweet, fatty Moistens, laxative Spelt Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements spleen qi Spinach Cooling Sweet, slightly Cools liver and blood bitter St. John’s wort Neutral to cooling Slightly bitter, Anti-inflammatory sweet Star fruit Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Cools heat Stinging nettle Warming Bitter, acrid, Balances blood, diuretic slightly salty Strawberry Cooling Sweet, sour Forms body fluids and blood Sunflower oil Neutral to cooling Sweet, fatty Moistens, enriches yin Sunflower seed Neutral Sweet, fatty Nourishes yin, moistens Sweet potato Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements center burner, qi and blood Foods from A to Z 249

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect

T Tangerine Cooling Sweet, sour Cools heat, supplements body fluids Tarragon Warming Bitter, slightly Stimulates digestion acrid Tea, black Neutral Bitter Stimulates stomach and intestine Tea, green Cooling Bitter Cools heat and liver yin Thyme Warming Bitter, acrid Extremely drying, stimulates Tofu Neutral Sweet Expels heat, moistens Tomato Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Supports liver and yin Trout Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements center burner Tuna Neutral to warming Sweet, slightly Supplements qi and blood salty Turkey Warming Sweet Supplements qi and yang Turmeric Warming Bitter, acrid Dries phlegm– cold (curcuma) V Valerian Neutral to cooling Bitter, slightly Supplements heart qi, relaxes sweet Vanilla Warming Sweet Mildly stimulates spleen and pancreas Veal Neutral Sweet Supplements spleen qi Venison, red deer, Warming Sweet Supplements qi, blood and yang blacktailed deer Venison, reindeer, Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and blood moose, elk, roe deer Verbena Neutral to cooling Bitter, slightly Expels wind–heat acrid Vinegar Warming Sour Stimulates circulation, gastric juices

W Walnut Warming Sweet, bitter, Strengthens kidneys and lung fatty Walnut oil Warming Sweet, fatty Supplements kidney yang Watercress Neutral Acrid, slightly Stimulates digestion bitter Watermelon Cold Sweet Cools heat Wheat bran Cooling Sweet Strengthens center burner Wheat flour Neutral to warming Sweet Moistens, enriches yin 250 Chinese Nutrition At a Glance

Food Thermal Nature Flavor Effect Wheat germ Cooling to cold Sweet, slightly Cools liver heat acrid Wheat germ oil Cooling Sweet, fatty Supplements kidney yin White wine Cooling Sour, sweet Enriches yin Wild boar (pig) Neutral to warming Sweet Supplements qi and yang Wood sorrel Cooling Sour Cools blood heat (shamrock, oxalis acetosella)

Y Yeast Refreshing Sour, sweet, Stimulates digestion bitter Yogurt Cooling to cold Sweet, sour Enriches yin, cools intestine

Z Zucchini Cooling Sweet, bitter Cools stomach and liver heat 7 Glossary

The English and Chinese terminology used in this book is based on “A Practical Dictionary of Chinese Medicine” by Nigel Wiseman and Feng Ye (Paradigm Publications, 1998, 2nd edition). As a quick reference, the following glossary provides a list of some of the most common terms used in this book and their Chinese equivalent, as derived from Nigel Wiseman/Feng Ye. Page intentionally left blank 253

English Terms Chinese Terms

Acquired constitution jing hou tian zhi jing

Ancestral qi (synonym: air qi or gathering qi) zong qi

Body fluids jin ye See also humors, liquids (accordning to Wiseman/Feng jin are the thinner fluids, and ye are the thicker, turbid ones). Both elements are also partly responsible for blood quality and quantity.

Bowels and viscera zang fu

Center burner (gTriple burner) zhong jiao

Center qi zhong qi

Channel qi (synonym: essential qi, or vessel qi) jing qi

Clear (food or liquid) qing

Cold Impediment han bi

Congenital (constitution) jing (synonym: prenatal, inherited jing) xian tian zhi jing

Construction qi yin qi

Controller Vessel ren mai

Corporeal soul po

Counterflow qi (synonym: rebellious or reverse) qi ni

Damp impediment shi bi

Defense qi wei qi

Downbear (verb), downbearing (adj.): jiang To descend or cause to descend

Drum distention gu zhang (synonym: for abdominal distention)

Dryness zao

Engendering cycle (synonym: feeding cycle) xiang sheng

Enriching/supplementing yin zi yin

Essence (synonym: essential qi) jing Congenital constitution jing and acquired constitution jing

Ethereal soul hun

Extraordinary vessels qi jing ba mai

Fire flaming upward huo shang yan

Five flavors (acridity, sourness, sweetness, bitterness, saltiness) wu wei

Five hearts, or hot areas (soles of feet, palms, inside sternum) wu yi

Five Impediments wu bi 254 Glossary

Five minds wu shi

Five phases wu xing

Governing Vessel (GV) du mai

Greater yang tai yang

Gu qi (synonym: drum qi, bone qi, or food qi) gu qi

Heat impediment re bi

Humors ve Turbid, heavy, denser element; moistens and nourishes brain, bone marrow, and lubricates joints. Sweat, snivel, tears, drool, and spittle.

Jing (see p. 10) jing

Lesser yang shao yang

Liquids jin Clear, light, thin element; circulates mostly on body surface; keeps skin, hair, ears, eyes, mouth, nose, genitals, and other orifices and muscles moist.

Lower burner xia jiao

Mind, willpower zhi

Night sweating (synonym: thief sweating) dao han

Nontransformation of food wan gu bu hua

Original qi yuan qi

Overwhelming cycle xiang cheng

Pulse mai

Qi: qi Vital life force (see p. 10)

Qi counterflow qi ni

Qi stagnation qi zhi

Qi vacuity qi xu

Qi vomiting qi ou (In the original and in some older English books called rebellious qi)

Rebellion cycle xiang wu

Repletion (g Vacuity) shi

Repletion heat shi re

Restraining cycle xiang ke

Reverting yin jue yin

Right or righting qi zheng qi

Sheng cycle (upbearing cycle) sheng cycle Glossary 255

Sinew jin

Spirit shen

Spirit and Kidney (“kidney stores mind/spirit/will power”) shen

Stomach fire wei huo

Stomach heat wei re

Stomach yin vacuity wei yin xu

Supplement: bu To increase or strengthen yin, yang, or qi

Tongue fur she tai

Triple burner: san jiao One of the six bowels, consisting of upper, middle, and lower burner

True qi zhen qi

Turbid (as in food and liquid) zhuo

Upbear (qi), upbearing (adj.): sheng To ascend, or cause to ascend

Vacuity (and repletion) xu (and shi) The term “vacuity” comes from the Chinese “xu” (vacuous, empty, lacking, weak). Its opposite is “repletion,” which comes from the Chinese “shi.” Vacuity and repletion can be present in varying degrees, from slight to complete. In Western terms, vacuity may be viewed as a deficit or deficiency. However, vacuity and repletion are not symptom categories, excesses, or deficiencies, but constitutional imbalances perceptible in the topolog- ical character of the body (Manaka). Vacuity is the weakness of right qi (zheng qi), the forces that maintain the health of the body and fight disease. Repletion is strength of evil qi (xie qi) or accumulation of physiological products within the body such as phlegm–rheum, water–damp, static blood, and stagnant qi (Wiseman).

Viscera fu

Wind impediment feng bi

Yang (see p. 7) yang

Yang brightness yang ming

Yang vacuity yang xu

Yin (see p. 7) yin

Yin humor: yin ye Essence, body fluids; blood, liquids, blood, humor

Yin vacuity yin xu 256 Further Reading

Dai, Y.-F., Liu, C.-J.: Fruit as Medicine. The Ram Maciocia, G.: The Practice of Chinese Medicine. Skull Press, Kuranda 1986 Churchill Livingstone, London 1994 Enquin, Z. et al: Chinese Medicated Diet. Pub- Nan Jing Jiao Shi. Classic of Difficulties, ed. by lishing House of Shanghai College. Shanghai 1988 Nanjing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Reprint/Revised edition, Peoples Health Pub- Flaws, B.: The Book of Jook. Blue Poppy Press, Boul- lishing House, Beijing 1979 der 1995 O’Connor, J., Bensky, D.: Acupuncture – A Compre- Flaws, B.: Chinese Medicinal Wines & Elixirs. Blue hensive Text. Eastland Press, Seattle 1981 Poppy Press, Boulder 1994 Pitchford, P.: Healing with Whole Food. North Flaws, B., Wolfe, H.: Prince Wen Hui’s Cook. Para- Atlantic Books, Berkeley 1993 digm, Brookline/MA 1983 Shen Jia-Lin et al: Zhounguo shiliao xue Haas, E.: Staying healthy with the seasons. Celes- (“Chinesische Diätetik”), Shanghai 1987 tial Arts, California 1981 Shi Dian-Hang: Zhongyi shiliao yingyang xue, Hecker, U. et al.: Color Atlas of Acupuncture, Georg Beijing 1988 Thieme Verlag, Stuttgart 2002. Sun Simiao: Qian Jin Fang (»Valuable Prescriptions Hecker, U. et al.: Lehrbuch und Repetitorium Worth a Thousand Gold Pieces for Emergencies«), Akupunktur 2. Auflage, Hippokrates Verlag, Stutt- Beijing 1955, Repring 1992 gart 2002 Unschuld, P.: Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen: Nature, Higdon, J.: An Evidence-Based Approach to Vita- Knowledge, Imagery in an Ancient Chinese Medi- mins and Minerals. Thieme New York, New York cal Text. University of California Press, Berkeley, 2003. California 2003. Huan, Z.Y., Rose, K.: Who Can Ride the Dragon, Par- Unschuld, P.: Chinese Medicine. Paradigm Publica- adigm Publications, Brookline, Massachusetts tions, Brookline, Massachusetts 1998. 1999. Wiseman, N., Feng, Y.: A Practical Dictionary of Huang Di Nei Jing. “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Chinese Medicine. 2nd edition Paradigm Publica- Medicine”. Beijing Foreign Language Press, Beijing tions, Brookline, Massachusetts 1998 1986. Yang Ji-Zhou, Compendium of Acupuncture (Zhen Jing-Feng, C.,: Eating your Way to Health. Foreign Jiu Da Cheng). Reprint, Peoples Health Publishing Language Press, Beijing 1988 House, Beijing 1980 Kaptchuk, T.: The Web That Has No Weaver. 2nd Yang, Shou-Zhong, Ki Jian-yong: Li Dongyuan’s edition, McGraw-Hill, Columbus, Ohio 2000 Treatise on the Spleen & Stomach. Blue Poppy Kasper, H.: Ernährungsmedizin und Diätetik. Press, Boulder 1993 Urban & Fischer, München 2000 Zhang Zhongjing (Shang Han Lun), Discussion on Kirschbaum, B.: Atlas of Chinese Tongue Diagnosis. Cold-induced Diseases. Reprint ed. by Nanijing Eastland Press, Vista, California 2000 College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Liu, J., Peck, G. (eds.): Chinese Dietary Therapy. Shanghanlun Research Group Shanghai Scientific Churchill-Livingstone, Edinburgh 1995 Publishing House, Shanghai 1980 Lu, H. C.: Chinese Foods for Longevity. Sterling, Zimmermann, M.: Burgerstein’s Handbook of New York 1990 Nutrition. Georg Thieme Verlag, Stuttgart 2002. Lu, H. C.: Chinese System of Food Cures. Sterling, Zimmermann, M.: Pocket Guide to Micronutrients New York 1986 in Health and Disease. Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart 2001. Maciocia, G., Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupunturists and Herb- alists, Churchill Livingstone, London 1989. 257 Index

A symptoms 91–2 Brazil nut 239 therapy 92 Bread juice 234, 239 Abdominal distension 200–1 Birch leaf 239 Breakfast 44 Acne 212–213 Bitter flavor 25, 27–8 Broad bean 224, 239 Acrid flavor 25, 26 Bitter orange peel 236, 239 Broccoli 239 Acupuncture 6, 18 Black bean 224, 228, 238 Broiling 32 Adzuki bean 238 Black sesame 157, 226, 231, 248 Bronchial asthma see Asthma Alcoholic beverages 160, 227, 230, Blackberry 239 Bronchitis 167 234–235, 237 Blackthorn 239 acute 166–7 Alcohol, cooking with 33 Bladder 29, 83 chronic 168–70 Almonds 156, 238 damp–cold in 214–215 constitutional lung disorder 170 Ancestral qi 18 damp–heat in 215 with phlegm production 169 Anchovies 143 function 83 recurrent 168 Angelica 238 see also Kidney–Bladder organ see also Cough Anger 16 network Buckwheat 114, 225, 239 Aniseed 227, 238 Blanching 32 Butter 150, 225, 226 Anxiety 16 Blood (Xue) 12 Butterbur root 239 Apple 129, 233, 238 dysfunction 12 Buttermilk 226, 239 Apricot 130, 224, 233, 238 function 12 Arnica 238 heat in 210–211 Artichoke 233, 238 C production and retention of 68 Arugula 228, 238 storage 90 Cabbage 106 Asparagus 228, 231, 238 Blood heat 12 Chinese 106, 223, 240 Asthma 180–3 nutritional therapy 12 green 223, 239 acute cold-type 181 symptoms 12 red 223, 239 acute heat-type 180 Blood pressure Cane sugar 126 chronic 181–3 high 205–208 Canola oil 239 extrinsic (allergic) 181 see also Hypertension Caraway seed 227, 229, 239 intrinsic (nonallergic) 180–1 low 203–204 Cardamom 229, 236, 239 Aubergine 107 Blood stasis 12 Cardiovascular disorders 203–208 Autumn 46 nutritional therapy 12 Carp 144, 239 symptoms 12 Carrageen 243 B Blood vacuity 12, 60, 203, 211 Carrot 30, 223, 239 heart blood 99–100 Cashew nut 239 Bacterial cystitis 215 hypertension and 206 Cauliflower 228, 240 Baking 32 liver blood 95–6 Caviar 232, 240 Bamboo sprouts 105 nutritional therapy 12, 61–2 Cayenne pepper 229 Banana 130, 224, 238 pathogenesis 61 Celery 240 Barbecue 32 symptoms 12, 61 Celery root (celeriac) 223, 240 Barley 114, 225, 231, 238 Blueberry 233, 239 Center Burner 20, 42 Basil 229, 236, 238 Body fluids (jin ye) 13–14 Chamomile 227, 240 Bass 227, 232, 238 dysfunction 13–14 Chard 240 Bay leaf 238 accumulation 14 Cheese Bean damage to 13 cottage 226, 241 adzuki 238 nutritional therapy 13, 14 cow’s milk 151, 226, 240 black 224, 228, 238 symptoms 13, 14 cream 226, 234, 241 fava (broad) 224, 239 function 13 goat’s milk 152, 226, 240 green (snap) 224, 238, 242 governance of 68 sheep’s milk 152, 226, 240 white 224, 238 see also Blood Cherry 131, 224, 240 Bedwetting 216 Boiling 32–3 Chervil 240 Beef 138, 226, 238 with plentiful water 33 Chestnut 157, 231, 240 Beef liver 139 Bone marrow 239 Chicken 139–40, 226, 240 Beer 227, 234, 238 Borage 239 Chicken liver 140 Beet 223, 238 Bowels (zang organs) 29 Chickpea 224, 240 Belgian endive hearts 236, 238 see also specific organs Children 49 Bell pepper 239 Braising 33 Chili 120, 223, 227, 228, 236, 240 Binding depression of liver qi 91–2 Bran 234, 249 Chinese cabbage 106, 223, 240 acne and 212 258 Index

Chinese nutrition grilling/broiling/barbecue 32 Diarrhea 184–6 application areas 56–66 healthy eating recommendations acute 184–5 blood vacuity 60–2 39–40 chronic 184–5 dampness and phlegm conditions in tune with the five phases 35 morning 186 64–6 salting 33 therapy 184 prevention 56 seasoning 33–4 traveler’s 185–6 qi vacuity 57 smoking 33 Diet see Chinese nutrition; Nutritional strengthening defense qi 62–3 steaming 32 theory supplementing lung qi 64 warming methods 31 Dill 241 therapy 56–7 Cool foods 22, 23 Dinner 44 yang repletion 59–60 Coriander 121, 229, 236, 241 Disease 15 yang vacuity 58 Corn 115, 225, 231, 241 external bioclimatic factors 15–16, yin repletion/dampness 59 Corn silk 227, 241 47–8 yin vacuity 58–9 Cottage cheese 226, 241 cold 15, 47, 48 general nutritional recommendations Cough 165, 168, 171–3 dampness 16, 47 56 acute severe cough 171 dryness 16, 47 indications for 53–4 acute weak cough 171 heat 16, 47, 48 role in Traditional Chinese Medicine chronic cough with sputum wind 15, 47–8 53 172 internal factors (five minds) 16 tips for giving nutritional advice 54, chronic dry cough 172–3 see also specific diseases 55 phlegm–damp cough 172 Downbearing movement 30 Chives 240 wind–cold cough 165–6 Drum qi (food qi) 18 Cider 234, 240 see also Bronchitis; Colds; Flu Dryness 16, 47 Cider vinegar 234, 240 Counterflow see Qi counterflow in lung 175 Cinnamon 121 Cow’s milk 150 nutritional therapy 16, 47 bark 229, 236, 240 Crab 144, 227, 232, 241 symptoms 16 twigs 236, 240 Cranberry 224, 233, 241 Duck 140–1, 226, 228, 241 Clove 229, 240 Crayfish 146, 232, 241 Duodenal ulcer 190–1, 192–3 Cocoa 237, 241 Cream 150, 226, 241 Coconut 226, 241 sour 226, 234, 248 E Coconut oil 241 Cream cheese 226, 234, 241 Coffee 161, 237, 241 Cress 228, 229, 241 Earth phase 9, 35, 67–77 Cold, as pathogenic factor 15, 47 Crohn disease 197 food listings 223–227 nutritional therapy 15, 41, 47 Cucumber 107, 223, 241 significance of 42–3 symptoms 15, 41 Cumin 236, 241 Eating atmosphere and enjoyment Cold evil invading the stomach 194, Currant 224, 233, 241 39 202 Curry 227, 236, 241 Eel 145, 227, 232, 241 Cold foods 22, 23–4 Cystitis Eggplant 107, 223, 233, 241 Colds 165–7 bacterial 215 Eggs 151, 226, 240 prevention 80 nonbacterial 214–215 Elderberry 224, 236, 241 therapy 63, 165 Elderly see Older people see also Bronchitis; Flu; Sinusitis D Emesis 194–9 Conch 232, 248 acute 194–5 Congenital essence see Jing (congenital Da chang see Large intestine caused by emotional strain 195–6 essence) Daily rhythms 44 chronic 194–5, 196 Conjunctivitis 209 Dairy products 149, 226, 234 following overeating 195 Connective tissue governance 69 Dampness 16, 47 infectious 194 Constipation 187–9 causes 59 morning sickness during pregnancy caused by stress or travel 188–9 nutritional therapy 16, 47, 65–6 218–219 in elderly patients 187–8 prevention 59 therapy 194 postnatal 187 symptoms 16, 59, 65 Emotions 16 Constitutional lung disorder 170 transforming flavors and foods Energy, lack of 203–204 Cooking methods 32–4 66 Engendering cycle 9 baking 32 Dan see Gallbladder Enteritis, infectious 185–6 blanching 32 Dandelion 236, 241 Enuresis 216 boiling/simmering 32–3 Date 224, 241 Epigastric disorders 190–3 cooking with alcohol 33 Deer meat 142, 231, 249 therapy 190 cooking with cooling ingredients Defense qi 62–3 Essence see Jing (congenital essence) 33 symptoms of weakening 62 Evening meal 44 cooling methods 31 nutritional therapy 63 Exhaustion 203–204 frying/roasting 32, 33 Dermatitis see Neurodermatitis Eye disorders 209 Index 259

F Garlic 123, 228, 229, 242 differential diagnosis 100 alpine wild 238 pathogenesis 88 Falling movement 30 Gastric ulcer 190–1, 192–3 prognosis 89 Fatigue 203–204 Gastritis symptoms 88, 100 Fats 149, 225 acute 190–3 therapy 88–9, 100–1 Fava bean 224, 239 chronic 190–3 Heart–Small Intestine organ network Fear 16 Ghee 242 97–101 Fei see Lung Ginger 122, 229, 242 food listings 236–237 Fennel 223, 228, 242 Ginseng liqueur 160 functions 97 Fennel seed 227, 229, 242 Goat meat 226, 231, 242 nutrition and 97–8 Fenugreek seed 242 Goat’s milk 152, 226, 244 see also Heart; Small intestine Fig 224, 242 cheese 152, 226, 240 Heat 16, 47 Fire eye 209 Goldenrod 242 chronic internal 189 Fire phase 9, 35, 97–101 Goose 226, 242 in blood 210–211 food listings 236–237 Gooseberry 233, 242 in large intestine 189 Fish 143, 227, 232 Grain coffee 242 in stomach 189 Five basic substances 10–14 Grains 113, 225, 231, 234, 236 nutritional therapy 16, 47 Five minds 16 preparation tips 113 symptoms 16 Five phases 9 Grape 132–3, 224, 242 Herbs 227, 229, 234, 236–237 Flavors (wu wei) 21, 25–8 Grapefruit 132, 233, 242 Herring 145, 243 acrid 25, 26 Green bean 224, 238, 242 Hiccough 202 association with organ networks Green onion 108, 228, 242 High blood pressure see Hypertension 29–30 Green tea 235, 237, 249 Honey 127, 227, 237, 243 bitter 25, 27–8 Grilling 32 Horseradish 229, 243 healthy eating recommendations Grünkern 234, 242 Horsetail 243 40 Gu qi 18 Hot foods 22, 23 salty 25, 27 Gynecological disorders 218–219 Human life cycle 49 sour 25, 27 Humors 13 sweet 25, 26 Hypertension 205–208 Flax seed 242 H with feeling of heaviness 207–208 Floating movement 30 Hare 142, 226 with headache 205–206 Flour 234, 249 Hazelnut 158, 243 with tinnitus 207 Flu 165–6 Headache, with hypertension 205–206 Food direction 30 Healthy eating habits 39–41 Food energetics 21 I cooking methods 39–40 healthy eating recommendations energetic thermal quality of foods Iceland moss 243 40–1 40–1 Impotence 217 see also Flavors; Thermal nature of flavor 40 Incontinence 216 food food quality 40 Infectious enteritis 185–6 Food qi 18 food quantity 40 Inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders Food quality 40 inner attitude and environment 39 197 Food quantity 40 Heart 29, 97 Influenza 165–6 Food stagnating in the stomach 76, therapy 98 Insomnia treatment 57 200 see also Heart–Small Intestine organ Intestine see Large intestine; Small intes- emesis and 195 network tine Frequent micturition 216 Heart blood vacuity 99–100 Irish moss 243 Frontal sinusitis see Sinusitis causes 99 Fruit 129, 224–225, 231, 233, 236 symptoms 99 Frying 32, 33 J therapy 100 Fu organs 29 Heart fire flaming upwards Jasmine blossoms 243 see also specific organs causes 101 Jin (liquid) 13 Fumaria 242 prognosis 101 see also Body fluids (jin ye) symptoms 101 Jing (congenital essence) 11, 17–18 G therapy 98, 101 dysfunction 11 Heart yang vacuity 98–9 nutritional therapy 11 Gallbladder 29, 90 causes 98–9 function 11 functions 90 prognosis 99 sources of 11 see also Liver–Gallbladder organ symptoms 98 Joy 16 network therapy 99 Juniper berry 243 Gan see Liver Heart yin vacuity 88–9, 100–1 Garden cress 228, 229, 241 causes 100 260 Index

K chronic 175 symptoms 94–5 Lavender 243 therapy 95 Kale 243 Leek 108, 228, 243 Liver–Gallbladder organ network Kidney 29, 83 Chinese 240 90–6 functions 83–4 Legumes 224, 228 damp–heat 177 noninteraction of the heart and kidney Lemon 134, 233, 243 food listings 233–235 88–89 zest 243 functions 90 pathogenesis 84 Lentil nutrition and 90–1 strengthening foods 84 green 224, 243 see also Gallbladder; Liver see also Kidney–Bladder organ net- red 224, 243 Lobster 146, 232, 244 work Lethargy 203–204 Lotus root 109 Kidney qi vacuity 84, 85, 203 Lettuce 109, 223, 243 Lovage 244 symptoms 85 arugula (rocket, rucola) 228, Low blood pressure 203–204 therapy 85 238 Lower Burner 20 urogenital conditions and 216 Libido, weak 217 Lunch 44 Kidney yang vacuity 84, 85–6, 198–9, Lichen 243 Lung 29, 78 203 Licorice 227, 244 functional impairment 168 associated conditions Life force see Qi (life force) constitutional lung disorder asthma 182 Linden flower 244 170 diarrhea 186 Linseed 236 dryness in lung 175 impotence/weak libido 217 Liqueur 227, 230, 237, 244 phlegm–damp obstructing the lung urogenital conditions 216 Liver 29, 90 80–1 causes 198 causes of imbalances 91 phlegm–heat obstructing the lung prognosis 86 functions 90 167, 180 symptoms 85, 198 nutrition and 90–1 symptoms 78 therapy 85–6, 198–9 see also Liver–Gallbladder organ wind–cold fettering the lung Kidney yin vacuity 84, 86–9 network 165–6, 171, 175 associated conditions Liver (food) wind–heat invading the lung bronchitis 170 beef 139 166–7, 171, 174, 176 hypertension with tinnitus chicken 140 see also Bronchitis; Colds; Flu 207 Liver blood vacuity 95–6 functions 78 pathogenesis 87, 88 causes 95–6 nutritional therapy 79 prognosis 87–8, 89 symptoms 95 see also Lung–Large Intestine organ symptoms 87, 88 therapy 96 network therapy 87, 88–9 Liver fire 205–206 Lung qi 62 Kidney–Bladder organ network Liver fire flaming upward 94, 191 causes of weakening 62 83–9 Liver qi supplementation of 63, 64, 79, 81 food listings 231–232 binding depression of 91–2 Lung qi vacuity 79–80 functions 83–4 acne and 212 associated conditions nutrition and 84 symptoms 91–2 asthma 181–2 see also Bladder; Kidney therapy 92 bronchitis 168, 169 Kiwi 133, 233, 243 invading the spleen 197–8 sinusitis 177–8 Kohlrabi 228, 243 invading the stomach 190–1, 195–6, causes 79 197–8 symptoms 79 L morning sickness and 219 therapy 79–80 Liver qi stagnation 90 Lung yin vacuity 82 Lack of energy 203–204 constipation 188–9 associated conditions Lady’s mantle 243 symptoms 90 bronchitis 170 Lamb 141, 231, 243 Liver qi vacuity 212 cough 172–3 Lard 225 Liver wind 205–206 causes 82 Large intestine 29, 78 Liver yang symptoms 82 damp–cold in 185 ascendant 92–3, 205 therapy 82 damp–heat in 185–6, 198 prognosis 93 with dryness 172–3 function 78 symptoms 92 Lung–Large Intestine organ network heat in 189 therapy 93 78–82 see also Lung–Large Intestine organ strengthening 93 food listings 228–230 network Liver yin vacuity 94–5 nutrition and 79 Large intestine qi vacuity 184 causes 95 see also Large intestine; Lung Large intestine yang vacuity 184 hypertension with headache and Lychee 244 Laryngitis 206 acute 175 prognosis 95 Index 261

M O fire phase 9, 35, 97–101 food listings 236–237 Mackerel 145 Oats 116, 225, 236, 245 metal phase 9, 35, 78–83 Maize see Corn Octopus 147, 232, 245 food listings 228–230 Malt 127–8 Oils 149, 225, 228, 231 water phase 9, 35, 83–9 Mango 233, 244 canola oil 239 food listings 231–232 Margarine 225, 244 coconut oil 241 wood phase 9, 35, 90–6 Marigold 244 olive oil 225, 245 food listings 233–235 Marjoram 237, 244 peanut oil 153, 225, 228, 245 Pheasant 231, 246 Marshmallow 244 sesame oil 154, 225, 248 Phlegm 64, 165, 168 Master soup 33 soybean oil 154, 225, 248 cold phlegm 80 Maxillary sinusitis see Sinusitis walnut oil 231, 249 differentiation 64–5 Meat 138, 226, 228, 231, 234 Older people 49 formation 64 Melon 224, 244 constipation 187–8 hot phlegm 80 Metal phase 9, 35, 78–83 Olive oil 225, 245 transforming flavors and foods 66 food listings 228–230 Onion 110, 223, 227, 228, 229, 245 Phlegm conditions 64–5 Meteorism 200–1 green (spring) onions 108, 228, chronic bronchitis with phlegm pro- acute 200 242 duction 169 recurrent 200–1 Orange 134–5, 224, 233, 245 differentiation 65 Micturition, frequent 216 Orange blossom 245 nutritional therapy 65–6 Midlife 49 Oregano 245 phlegm retention in lung 169, Milk 149 Organ networks 29 207–208 cow’s 150, 226, 244 flavor association 29–30 symptoms 65 goat’s 152, 226, 244 see also specific networks Phlegm–damp cough 172 sheep’s 152, 226, 244 Overeating, emesis and 195 Phlegm–damp obstructing the lung Milk thistle 244 Overwhelming cycle 9 80–1 Millet 115–16, 225, 231, 244 Oyster 146, 245 causes 81 Mineral water 232, 244 therapy 81 Mirabelle 244 P Phlegm–heat obstructing the lung Miso 232, 244 asthma 180 Morning sickness during pregnancy Pancreas see Spleen/Pancreas–Stomach bronchitis/sinusitis 167 218–219 organ network Pickling 33 Motherwort 244 Pang guang see Bladder Pine nuts 159 Mugwort 244 Papaya 245 Pineapple 136, 225, 233, 246 Mushroom 124, 223, 244 Paprika 227, 236, 245 Pistachio 226, 228, 246 Mussel 146, 232, 245 Parsley Plantain 246 Mustard 245 leaf 245 Plum 136–7, 233, 246 Mutton 141 root 245 Pollen 246 Parsnip 223, 245 Pomelo 132 Passion fruit 245 N Pork 141–2, 226, 231, 246 Pea Potato 223, 246 Nappa cabbage 106 green 246 Poultry 226, 228 Nausea 194–9 snap 224 Prawn 146, 232, 246 therapy 194 snow 224 Pregnancy see also Emesis yellow 224, 246 foods that should be avoided 219 Neurodermatitis 210 Peach 135, 224, 233, 236, 245 morning sickness 218–219 acute flare-up 210–211 Peanut 158–9, 224, 226, 228, 245 Primrose 246 chronic conditions 211 Peanut butter 225, 226, 228, 245 Pumpkin 223, 246 Neutral foods 22, 23 Peanut oil 153, 225, 228, 245 Noninteraction of the heart and kidney Pear 135–6, 224, 233, 245 88–9 Pepper 229 Q pathogenesis 88 bell 239 Qi (life force) 6, 10–11, 17 prognosis 89 Cayenne 229 defense qi 62–3 symptoms 88 seasoning 124–5, 246 strengthening 62–3 therapy 88–9 see also Chili dysfunction 10–11 Nutmeg 229, 245 Peppermint 234, 246 energy sources 17–18, 19 Nutritional theory 17–18 Phases 9 forms of 10 see also Chinese nutrition cooking in tune with 35 function 10 Nuts 156, 226, 228, 231 earth phase 9, 35, 67–77 gu qi (drum/food qi) 18 food listings 223–227 movement caused by food 30 significance of 42–3 zong qi (ancestral/air qi) 18 262 Index

see also Liver qi; Lung qi Sardine 147, 232, 247 liver qi invading 197–8 Qi counterflow 11, 171 Sauerkraut 233, 247 see also Spleen/Pancreas–Stomach nutritional therapy 11 Savory 229, 247 organ network symptoms 11 Schnapps 248 Spleen qi strengthening 42–3 Qi repletion 6 Sea snail 232, 248 Spleen qi vacuity 69, 197, 203 Qi stagnation 11 Seafood 143 associated conditions nutritional therapy 11 Seasonal rhythms 45–6 asthma 181 symptoms 11 Seasoning foods 33–4 bronchitis 169 with food retention in stomach and Seaweed 125, 232, 243, 248 diarrhea 184 spleen 200 Seeds 156, 226, 228, 231 meteorism 200–1 see also Liver qi stagnation Sesame morning sickness 218–219 Qi vacuity 6, 10, 57 black 157, 226, 231, 248 sinusitis 177–8 causes 57 white 226, 248 causes 197 constipation and 187 Sesame oil 154, 225, 248 symptoms 68, 69, 197 nutritional therapy 57 Shark 248 therapy 68, 197 prevention 57 Sheep 141 Spleen yang support 43 symptoms 10, 24, 57, 62 Sheep’s milk 152, 226, 244 Spleen yang vacuity 69–71, 199, 203 see also Kidney qi vacuity; Large intes- cheese 152, 226, 240 associated conditions tine qi vacuity; Shen see Kidney; Spirit diarrhea 184, 186 Liver qi vacuity; Lung qi vacuity; Spleen qi Shepherd’s purse 248 meteorism 200–1 vacuity; Stomach qi vacuity Sherry vinegar 235, 248 morning sickness 218–219 Quail 246 Shrimp 248 causes 199 Quince 225, 246 Sighing 202 pathogenesis 70 Simmering 32–3 symptoms 70, 199 R Singult 202 therapy 70–1, 199 Sinusitis 167, 176–9 Spleen/Pancreas–Stomach organ network Rabbit 142, 226, 234, 247 acute 176–7 67–77 Radish 228, 247 chronic 177 food listings 223–227 Raspberry 231, 233, 247 recurrent 177–8 functions 67–9 Raspberry leaf 247 Skin disorders 210–213 special diet for 69 Rebellion cycle 9 Small intestine 29, 97 see also Spleen; Stomach Red cabbage 223, 239 functions 97 Spring 45 Red clover 247 see also Heart–Small Intestine organ Spring onions 108, 228, 242 Red wine 237, 247 network Squid 147 Red wine vinegar 234, 247 Smoking foods 33 Star fruit 248 Repletion 6 Sobbing 202 Steaming of foods 32 see also Yang repletion; Yin repletion Sore throat 174–5 Stinging nettle 248 Restraining cycle 9 Sorrel 234, 248 Stomach 29, 67, 71 Rhubarb 233, 247 Sour cream 226, 234, 248 causes of dysfunction 72–3 Rhubarb root 234, 247 Sour flavor 25, 27 emotional factors 72–3 Rhythms Soy 113 unfavorable eating habits 72 daily 44 Soy sauce 126 cold evil invading 194, 202 seasonal 45–6 Soybean dietary recommendations 69, 71 Rice 116–17, 225, 247 black 118, 224, 248 food stagnation in 76, 200 Roasting foods 32 green 224, 248 functions 67–9, 71 Rocket 228, 238 sprout 224 heat in 189 Rose paprika 236, 247 yellow 118–19, 248 liver qi invading 190–1, 195–6, Rosemary 237, 247 Soybean oil 154, 225, 248 197–8 Rye 117, 225, 234, 247 Spelt 117, 225, 234, 248 morning sickness and 219 Spices 120, 227, 229, 232, 234, strengthening 42–3 S 236 see also Spleen/Pancreas–Stomach Spinach 110–11, 233, 248 organ network Saffron 227, 236, 247 Spirit (shen) 13, 97 Stomach fire 76–7, 191 Sage 229, 237, 247 dysfunction 13 causes 77 St. John’s wort 248 nutritional therapy 13 prognosis 77 Salmon 227, 232, 247 function 13 symptoms 77 Salsify 223, 247 Spirits 230, 237 therapy 77 Salt 125, 232, 247 Spleen 29 Stomach fire flaming upward 191 Salting 33 damp–cold in 185 Stomach qi vacuity 73–4, 197 Salty flavor 25, 27 damp–heat in 178–9, 185–6 associated conditions San jiao see Triple burner food retention in 200 diarrhea 184 Index 263

emesis 194–5 warm 22, 23 Watercress 229, 249 food stagnating in the stomach 76 warming cooking methods 31 Watermelon 137, 225, 236, 249 gastritis 191–2 yang foods 24 Weakness, general 203–204 meteorism 200–1 yin foods 24 Wei see Stomach morning sickness 218–219 Thought 16 Wei qi see Defense qi causes 73, 197 Thyme 229, 237, 249 Wheat 119, 225, 231, 234 prognosis 73–4 Tinnitus, with hypertension 207 bran 234, 249 symptoms 73, 197 Tofu 224, 249 flour 234, 249 therapy 73, 197 Tomato 111–12, 223, 233, 249 germ 234, 250 with cold 75–6 Tonsillitis, acute 174 White bean 224, 238 causes 75 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) 3 White wine 235, 250 emesis 194–5 role of nutrition 53 Wild boar 231, 250 prognosis 76 therapeutic principles 7–8 Wind-caused diseases 15, 47–8 symptoms 75 Traveler’s diarrhea 185–6 internal wind 48 therapy 75–6 Triple Burner (san jiao) 20 nutritional therapy 15, 41, 48 Stomach yang vacuity center burner 20, 42 symptoms 15, 41 meteorism and 200 lower burner 20 Wind–cold cough 165–6 morning sickness and 218–219 upper burner 20 Wind–cold fettering the lung Stomach yin support 43 Trout 148, 227, 232, 249 asthma 181 Stomach yin vacuity 74–5 Tuna 148, 232, 249 cough 171 associated conditions Turkey 249 flu 165–6 diarrhea 184 Turmeric 229, 236, 249 laryngitis 175 emesis 196 Wind–heat invading the lung gastric/duodenal ulcer 192–3 U bronchitis 166–7 gastritis 192–3 cough 171 causes 74 Ulcer sinusitis 176 pathogenesis 74 duodenal 190–1, 192–3 tonsillitis 174 prognosis 75 gastric 190–1, 192–3 Wine symptoms 74 Ulcerative colitis 197 red 237, 247 therapy 74–5 Upbearing movement 30 white 235, 250 Strawberry 231, 233 Upper Burner 20 Winter 46 Strengthening the inner center Urination, frequent 216 Wood phase 9, 35, 90–6 42–3 Urogenital disorders 214–217 food listings 233–235 Substances 10–14 Wood sorrel 234, 250 see also Blood; Body fluids; Jing V Wu shi (five minds) 16 (congenital essence); Qi (life force); Wu wei see Flavors (wu wei) Spirit Valerian 249 Wu Xing (five phases) 9 Sugar Vanilla 249 brown/whole cane 126 Veal 226, 249 X white 128 Vegetables 105, 223, 228, 231, 233, 236 Summer 45 Venison 142, 231, 249 Xiao chang see Small intestine Sunflower oil 225, 248 Verbena 249 Xin see Heart Sunflower seeds 159, 231, 248 Vinegar 128, 234, 249 Xue see Blood Sweet flavor 25, 26 cider 234, 240 Xue Re see Blood heat Sweet potato 111, 223, 248 red wine 234, 247 Xue Xu see Blood vacuity Sweeteners 120, 126–8 sherry 235, 248 Xue Yu see Blood stasis Viscera (Fu organs) 29 T see also specific organs Y Vomiting 194–9 Tangerine 225, 233, 249 morning sickness during pregnancy Yang 3–6 Tao 3 218–219 in Chinese nutrition 5 Tarragon 249 therapy 194 in diagnostics 5 Tea 161–2 see also Emesis in nature 4 black 235, 237, 249 in people 4 green 235, 237, 249 W in therapy 5 Thermal nature of food 21–4 liver, ascendant 92–3 cold 22, 23–4 Walnut 231, 249 Yang foods 24 cool 22, 23 Walnut oil 231, 249 Yang repletion 59–60 cooling cooking methods 31 Warm foods 22, 23 causes 60 hot 22, 23 Water phase 9, 35, 83–9 nutritional therapy 60 neutral 22, 23 food listings 231–232 prevention 60 264 Index

symptoms 24, 60 in Chinese nutrition 5 symptoms 24, 58 Yang vacuity 58 in diagnostics 5 see also Heart yin vacuity; Kidney yin constipation and 187 in nature 4 vacuity; Liver yin nutritional therapy 58 in people 4 vacuity; Lung yin vacuity; Stomach yin prevention 58 in therapy 5 vacuity symptoms 24, 58, 62 Yin foods 24 Yin–Yang interaction 7–8 see also Heart yang vacuity; Kidney Yin repletion 59 Yoghurt 155, 226, 234, 250 yang vacuity; Large causes 59 Young people 49 intestine yang vacuity; Spleen prevention 59 yang vacuity; Stomach symptoms 59 Z yang vacuity Yin vacuity 58 Ye (humors) 13 causes 58 Zang organs 29 see also Body fluids (jin ye) constipation and 187–8 see also specific organs Yeast 250 nutritional therapy 58–9 Zong qi (ancestral/air qi) 18 Yin 3–6 prevention 58–9 Zucchini 223, 250