
The best method for removing dampness
Recently, I have been constantly feeling physical fatigue and heaviness, along with soreness and weakness in the limbs. A friend mentioned this might be due to excessive dampness in the body. I would like to know, what is the most effective method for removing dampness from the body?

There is no single "best method for removing dampness," as methods generally include dietary regulation, exercise, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy, maintaining regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "作息" is a Chinese term referring to sleep and rest patterns), and improving the environment.
Eat more foods that help remove dampness, such as red beans, coix seed, Chinese yam, winter melon, and poria. Avoid excessive consumption of oily, sweet, and cold raw foods. Moderate exercise can promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, and help the body eliminate excess moisture and dampness. Recommended exercises include brisk walking, jogging, and yoga.
Under the guidance of a TCM practitioner, use herbs with dampness-resolving properties, such as Atractylodes, Magnolia bark, and tangerine peel, prepared as decoctions or pills. Maintain regular作息 to strengthen physical condition and improve resistance to dampness. Keep indoor areas well-ventilated and dry by using dehumidifiers or air conditioning to maintain appropriate humidity levels. Avoid staying for long periods in damp environments, such as bathrooms and basements.
In addition, soaking feet in hot water with herbs that help dispel dampness, such as mugwort leaves and Sichuan pepper, can promote blood circulation and accelerate the elimination of dampness. These methods should be used according to individual constitution and specific circumstances, and when necessary, should be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician.