Title: Understanding the Distinct Constitution Faces
Author: Chen Yan, a practicing TCM physician (Practice License Number: 241330108000021). This article is written by Dr. Chen Yan, based on classical TCM theories and clinical experience, and is intended for popular scientific reference only. The qualification can be verified publicly on the National Health Commission of China's official website.
It is common to experience gastric pain and diarrhea after consuming cold or spicy foods. Some people feel as if there is a ball of fire in their stomach, causing intense burning pain, while others feel as if a cold wind has swept through their abdomen, leading to severe cramps. In clinical practice, these two conditions are often confused, but the underlying constitution is fundamentally different. The former is typically characterized by "excessive stomach heat" with dampness, while the latter is often a combination of "deficient spleen and stomach cold" with stagnation. If one does not differentiate between cold and heat and acts blindly...
Title: The Difference in Constitution
The former condition, characterized by "excessive stomach heat," is often accompanied by dampness. This type of constitution tends to have symptoms such as a red tongue with a greasy coating, a rapid and forceful pulse, and a preference for cold drinks. The latter condition, "deficient spleen and stomach cold," is usually accompanied by stagnation. Symptoms may include a pale tongue with a thin white coating, a weak and slow pulse, and a preference for warm drinks.
Title: TCM Treatment Approach
In TCM, the treatment for "excessive stomach heat" with dampness involves clearing heat and resolving dampness. Herbs such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Phellodendron amurense, and Poria cocos are commonly used. For "deficient spleen and stomach cold" with stagnation, the focus is on warming the spleen and stomach and promoting circulation. Herbs like Cinnamon, Atractylodes macrocephala, and Codonopsis pilosula are often prescribed.
Title: Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between these two constitution types is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment in TCM. It is essential for practitioners to carefully observe and differentiate the symptoms to provide appropriate herbal medicine and dietary recommendations.