Spleen Qi deficiency

In traditional Chinese culture and medicine, qi is an active principle in every living being.

Qi may be interpreted as an energy flow, life spirit or vital life. This flow of energy around and through the body, is linked with each part of the body and forms a cohesive and functioning unity. Understanding the rhythm and flow of energy, Chinese medical experts believe they can guide exercises and treatments to give us stability and longevity.

Spleen qi deficiency

The spleen is one of the vital organs in the body that plays a significant role in the metabolic processes, controls the blood flow, and feeds the tissues. When the spleen functions appropriately, the body is strong and well-nourished. However, if the qi of the spleen is distracted, the spleen fails to perform its functions.

Symptoms of spleen qi deficiency

When the spleen does not work properly, it fails to support digestive functions of the body. Patients with qi deficient spleen may be extremely tired and pale. Their tongue might appear white in color and they usually goose appetite and weight. Shallow breathing is another characteristic symptom, caused by the inability of spleen to assist the function of kidneys. Patients may also complain about persistent headaches caused by the nervous tension. When the spleen fails to support digestive functions, the deficiency may lead to indigestion, bloating, gas, loose stools, and general abdominal discomfort.

Causes of spleen qi deficiency

The spleen favors dry surroundings. Dampness or cold from climate and dietary factors may do severe damage to normal spleen functioning. The spleen is especially sensitive to cold, damp weather and cold or raw foods. Both conditions are appropriate ground for the pathogenic factor of dampness.

Spleen deficiency may develop due to numerous factors. Most commonly, the deficiency results from a prolonged period of eating raw, cool or extremely cold foods. People who eat a little proteins, or have bad eating habits, such as irregular eating or overeating, are also at increased risk of developing spleen qi deficiency.

Certain environmental factors may also contribute to the development of this condition. Damp working conditions, for example, may cause dampness accumulation in the spleen and severely increase spleen deficiency.

Stress is another important factor as it may give rise to numerous eating disorders thus affecting the spleen health.

Other medical conditions, especially various stomach disorders, are also responsible for spleen qi deficiency. If the stomach does not work properly, it interferes with the process of qi exchange between the food and the body. Eventually this leads to spleen qi deficiency.