Can Sanfu patches remove dampness from the body?

Generally, the Three伏Patches (Sanfu Patches) have a certain auxiliary effect in removing dampness, but the effectiveness varies depending on individual conditions, and dampness cannot be completely eliminated by relying solely on these patches. A detailed explanation is as follows:

For individuals with cold-damp body types, who may experience symptoms such as bodily heaviness, limb fatigue, and a white, greasy tongue coating, the Sanfu Patches may help warm the body and dispel cold-dampness, as well as promote the flow of meridians, by applying warm herbal medicines to specific acupoints. This method takes advantage of the strong yang energy during summer. Continued application according to the treatment course is more likely to yield noticeable results.

If internal dampness manifests as damp-heat, characterized by symptoms like bitter taste in the mouth (口苦), yellow greasy tongue coating, and sticky bowel movements, using the Sanfu Patches might intensify internal heat symptoms, which could be counterproductive for eliminating dampness. Moreover, if excessive dampness is caused by organic diseases, it is difficult to effectively improve the condition with Sanfu Patches alone, and other regulating methods should be combined.

In daily life, dampness elimination can be supported by dietary regulation. Consuming an appropriate amount of dampness-resolving foods such as red beans, coix seed, and wax gourd, while reducing intake of raw, cold, and greasy foods; ensuring indoor ventilation and avoiding damp environments; engaging in appropriate physical exercise to promote perspiration can comprehensively aid in removing dampness and improving overall physical condition.