What Is Dampness?

Dampness primarily originates from external climatic factors, but its pathogenic causes may also stem from impaired Spleen and Stomach function within the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen governs the transformation and transportation of dampness; thus, when Spleen–Stomach function declines—particularly their capacity to metabolize and transport water-damp—it leads to internal accumulation of dampness.This is often metaphorically described as “oil mixing into flour”: once oil and flour combine, the mixture becomes sticky and heavy—similarly, the body enters a state of damp obstruction. As a Yin pathogen, dampness impedes the free flow of Qi and obstructs Yang Qi.

When dampness obstructs the flow of Qi, patients commonly experience marked lethargy, chest tightness, generalized fatigue, drowsiness, loss of appetite (especially during humid summer weather), belching, yellow, thick, greasy tongue coating, and nausea or vomiting.Moreover, if the Spleen–Stomach’s intrinsic ability to resolve dampness weakens, internal dampness accumulates and further impairs Spleen–Stomach function, disrupting the Qi movement of the gastrointestinal tract—leading to aversion to greasy foods and anorexia.In severe cases, it may even cause loose stools, dizziness, and a sensation of heaviness in the head. Loose stools arise because turbid Qi fails to descend and disperse, while clear Qi fails to ascend properly—resulting in clear Qi sinking downward and turbid Qi rising upward.

Consequently, symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue frequently manifest.Clinically, treatment focuses on two primary etiologies: external dampness arising from environmental humidity, and internal dampness resulting from Spleen–Stomach dysfunction. Therefore, therapeutic strategies must simultaneously eliminate external dampness and strengthen Spleen–Stomach function to resolve these issues.