Body heat or “wen” is a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that represents the body’s overall metabolic activity. It is the result of the body’s conversion of air and food to Qi energy. In TCM, understanding body heat is a key factor in maintaining overall health and wellness. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the concept of body heat in TCM, its impact on the body, and ways to reduce it.
What is Body Heat in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
In TCM, body heat is responsible for maintaining the balance between Yin and Yang energies. Yin represents cool, moist, and stillness, while Yang represents warmth, dryness, and movement. Too much or too little body heat can disrupt this balance, leading to various health issues.
According to TCM, optimal body heat balance is essential for normal functioning of organs, immune system, digestion, and metabolism. Body heat controls the distribution of fluids, blood circulation, and the body’s ability to regulate itself. When the body overheats, more energy is required to control its temperature, leading to a deficiency of Qi which can impact overall health.
The Three Types of Heat in TCM
In TCM, there are three types of body heat: Excess Heat, Deficient Heat, and Hidden Heat. Excess Heat refers to the body’s inability to dissipate heat effectively, leading to heat accumulation in the body. This accumulation of heat can result in acne, restlessness, and dehydration. Deficient Heat occurs when the body’s energy levels are too low to maintain balance, while Hidden Heat represents internal heat that lingers in the body and can manifest in diseases over time.
What Causes Body Heat in TCM?
Internal heat can be caused by plenty of stuff. We are talking eating wrong, stressing out, not bodily moving much, and being a worklaholic. Stress makes “Qi” energy stuck, and then the heat builds up in your body. Greasy, spicy, fried food makes your gut work overtime and adds heat to the mix. Not enough rest or exercise results in fatigue, and energy isn’t flowing right. Important to know what causing heat inside to find the right fix. Sometimes it can be resolved easily, but sometimes not so much.
Herbal Remedies to Reduce Body Heat
Herbal remedies are an essential aspect of TCM treatment for regulating body heat. Cooling herbs like peppermint, chrysanthemum, and mung bean have been used in TCM to clear excess heat and maintain body balance. Other herbs like rehmannia and lily bulb have been shown to soothe and mitigate symptoms of deficient heat, while Rhubarb and Dandelion have been used to treat hidden heat. TCM practitioners recommend consulting with an expert to determine the right herbs and dosages for individual needs.
Conclusion
Body heat plays a crucial role in TCM’s understanding of wellness and overall health. Proper regulation of body heat can promote the smooth functioning of organs, boost immunity, and enhance overall health. Incorporating herbal remedies, a healthy diet and lifestyle changes are among the key approaches in reducing body heat while maintaining balance. Consultation and guidance from trained TCM practitioners have proven to address body heat issues tailored to individual needs.
