How to regulate a cold-damp constitution
Apr 21, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Ziyi
Introduction
Patients with a cold-damp constitution should avoid eating cold or spicy irritant foods and must not come into contact with cold water. They may appropriately consume foods such as coix seed (yi mi) and red beans to help eliminate dampness and cold from the body. Under the guidance of a qualified physician, moxibustion or gua sha may also be performed to promote smooth meridians and improve the circulation of qi and blood. If the cold-damp condition is severe, medications such as Shen Ling Bai Zhu San, Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan, or Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan may be used for regulation according to medical advice.
Patients with a cold-damp constitution can generally regulate their condition through dietary adjustments, moxibustion or gua sha, medication, and other methods. Specific approaches are as follows:
1. Dietary Adjustments
Avoid consuming cold or stimulating foods such as pears, watermelon, and ice cream, and avoid contact with cold water to prevent worsening of cold-damp symptoms. It is advisable to consume foods like barley and red beans appropriately to help eliminate dampness and cold from the body.
2. Moxibustion or Gua Sha
Moxibustion or gua sha can also be performed under the guidance of a qualified practitioner to promote smooth flow of meridians, improve circulation of qi and blood, and assist in regulating a cold-damp constitution.
3. Medication
If the cold-damp condition is severe and the above methods yield unsatisfactory results, medications such as Shen Ling Bai Zhu San, Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan, or Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan may be used for regulation, following medical advice.
In addition, regulation can also be achieved through massage (tuina), acupuncture, or soaking in hot baths. It is recommended to choose appropriate methods under the guidance of a healthcare provider to promote overall health.
