Author: Wang Zhengxiang
Licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (License No.: 241410926000017) This article is written by Dr. Wang Zhengxiang and is based on classical Traditional Chinese Medicine theories and clinical experience. It is intended for popular science reference only. The practitioner's license can be publicly verified on the official website of the National Health Commission.
In the kitchen, there is an ingredient with a vibrant color and a tender texture that leaves a mark at the slightest touch. This is similar to our skin, which leaves a red mark when scratched. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, this phenomenon may reflect our body constitution. So, why does this happen, and how can it be regulated?
Constitution A: Blood-Heat Constitution, Prone to Red Marks
In TCM clinical practice, skin that leaves a red mark upon scratching is often seen in individuals with a Blood-Heat constitution. People with a Blood-Heat constitution have vigorous blood circulation, which can easily cause dilation of the skin's blood vessels, leading to scratch marks. These individuals often also present with symptoms such as a flushed complexion, dry mouth and throat, irritability, and a tendency to anger.
Constitution B: Qi-Deficiency Constitution, Red Marks Fade Quickly
In contrast to the Blood-Heat constitution, individuals with a Qi-Deficiency constitution also develop red marks when scratched, but the marks fade relatively quickly. This is because blood circulation in those with Qi-Deficiency is relatively slow. After a scratch mark appears, the Qi and blood movement in a Qi-Deficiency constitution is insufficient to rapidly repair the damage.
Constitution C: Yin-Deficiency Constitution, Red Marks Persist
Individuals with a Yin-Deficiency constitution have insufficient Yin fluid in the body, leading to poor Qi and blood circulation, making it difficult for scratch marks to heal quickly. These individuals often also present with symptoms such as a pale complexion, heat in the palms and soles, insomnia, and excessive dreaming.
Why Different Regulation Methods for the Same Issue
Why are different regulation methods used for the same issue? This is because TCM emphasizes treatment based on syndrome differentiation, adopting different regulation methods according to the specific characteristics of each constitution.
Regulation Methods
1. Blood-Heat Constitution: It is appropriate to consume cooling and heat-clearing foods, such as watermelon, cucumber, and mung beans. Additionally, some heat-clearing and blood-cooling herbs can be taken, such as Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju Hua) and Tree Peony Bark (Dan Pi).
2. Qi-Deficiency Constitution: It is advisable to consume Qi-tonifying and blood-nourishing foods, such as red dates (Hong Zao), Goji berries (Gou Qi Zi), and Codonopsis root (Dang Shen). Moderate amounts of Qi-tonifying and blood-nourishing herbs can be taken, such as Ginseng (Ren Shen) and Astragalus root (Huang Qi).
3. Yin-Deficiency Constitution: It is suitable to consume moderate amounts of Yin-nourishing and dryness-moistening foods, such as lily bulb (Bai He), honey, and walnuts. Some Yin-nourishing and dryness-moistening herbs can be taken, such as Glehnia root (Sha Shen) and Ophiopogon root (Mai Dong).
Classical Citations
1. *The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic: Plain Questions - Chapter on Blood, Qi, Form, and Will* states: "When blood is hot, the vessels are full; when vessels are full, blood is abundant; when blood is abundant, the skin is well-nourished and replete."
2. *The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic: Plain Questions - Chapter on Regulating the Channels* states: "When Qi is deficient, blood is scanty; when blood is scanty, the muscles are not well-nourished."
3. *The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic: Plain Questions - Chapter on the Correspondence of Yin and Yang* states: "When Yin is deficient, there is internal heat; when there is internal heat, the skin becomes dry."
Conclusion
Skin that leaves a red mark upon scratching may be a reflection of our body constitution. Through TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment, we can find suitable regulation methods for ourselves. Of course, specific regulation plans should be determined by a licensed TCM practitioner based on an individual's constitution.
Related Knowledge Q&A
What causes Constitution A? TCM believes that the cause of Constitution A must be determined through a holistic syndrome differentiation approach, integrating the four diagnostic methods (inspection, auscultation-olfaction, inquiry, and palpation) and considering the individual's constitutional characteristics. It cannot be generalized. The specific direction for regulation must be determined by a licensed TCM practitioner after an in-person consultation.
How long is the regulation cycle for Constitution B? The regulation cycle varies from person to person and is related to factors such as the individual's baseline constitution and compliance with lifestyle recommendations. TCM emphasizes gradual progress. The specific cycle needs to be assessed by a licensed TCM practitioner after an in-person consultation based on the individual's condition. This material does not provide a specific cycle commitment.
What should Constitution C pay attention to in daily life? For daily care, it is recommended to maintain a regular routine, a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and emotional stability. Specific precautions should be flexibly adjusted according to individual constitution and seasonal changes. It is advisable to consult a licensed TCM practitioner for targeted advice.