Qi Deficiency Constitution
A constitution characterized by insufficiency of vital Qi, especially Spleen Qi and Lung Qi. Qi is the driving force behind all bodily functions; its deficiency results in fatigue, general weakness, and susceptibility to external illness.
Description
A constitution characterized by insufficiency of vital Qi, especially Spleen Qi and Lung Qi. Qi is the driving force behind all bodily functions; its deficiency results in fatigue, general weakness, and susceptibility to external illness.
Physical and emotional traits
Physical
- Easy fatigue, constant tiredness
- Shortness of breath or breathlessness with minimal exertion
- Spontaneous sweating with no apparent cause
- Low, weak voice
- Tendency toward facial pallor
- Underdeveloped or flaccid musculature
- Frequent palpitations
Emotional
- Easily emotionally drained
- Introversion and shyness
- Lack of initiative
- Tendency toward excessive worry
- Difficulty concentrating
- Low motivation
Common symptoms
- Chronic fatigue
- Exertional dyspnea
- Spontaneous sweating (自汗, zì hàn)
- Palpitations
- Dizziness on standing up
- Loose stools or frequent diarrhea
- Slow digestion
- Frequent colds
- Low physical stamina
- Tongue
- Pale, edges with tooth marks (齿痕舌), thin white coating, swollen body
- Pulse
- Weak (弱脉, ruò mài) or empty (虚脉, xū mài), without strength
Tendencies and vulnerabilities
- High susceptibility to colds and infections
- Tendency toward organ prolapse
- Higher risk of digestive disorders
- Tendency toward anemia
- Slow recovery from illness
Diet
Prioritize foods that tonify Spleen and Stomach Qi. Eat small, frequent portions. Chew thoroughly and eat calmly. Avoid raw, cold, or hard-to-digest foods.
Favor
- Rice and millet (tonify the Spleen)
- Chinese yam (山药, shān yào)
- Chicken and rabbit (tonify Qi)
- Pumpkin and carrot
- Chinese red dates (大枣, dà zǎo)
- Bone soup and nourishing broth
- Chestnuts
- Lentils and black beans
- Goji (枸杞, gǒu qǐ)
Moderate
- Raw and cold foods (salads, cold smoothies)
- Ice cream and cold drinks
- Very spicy or stimulating foods
- Alcohol
- Excess sweets
- Fast and processed food
Lifestyle, exercise and emotions
Adequate rest, avoiding excessive physical or mental exertion. Gentle, gradual exercise. Keep the abdomen protected from cold. Maintain a regular sleep schedule (10 pm - 6 am).
- Qi Gong (especially to tonify the Spleen)
- Gentle walk (20-30 minutes)
- Tai Chi Chuan
- Swimming at a calm pace
- Restorative yoga
Avoid overthinking and chronic worry, as they damage the Spleen. Cultivate joy and a sense of humor. Set healthy boundaries and learn to delegate.
Seasonal advice
- Spring
- Move gently to activate the Qi stagnated over winter. Green foods and sprouts to nourish the Liver.
- Summer
- Avoid excess heat and excessive sweating, which depletes Qi. Protect yourself from the sun during peak hours. Take a nap.
- Autumn
- Protect the Lung from cold and dryness. Tonify Wei Qi with astragalus. Moistening foods.
- Winter
- Maximum conservation of Qi and Yang. Deep rest. Nourishing, warm soups. Avoid extreme cold.
Associated herbs and formulas
Herbs that tradition associates
Herbs usually avoided
Formulas
Herbs and formulas must be prescribed by qualified professionals: they can interact with medications.
Acupressure points
Health notice. Educational and study content. It describes concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. Needling, medicinal herbs and invasive techniques must be applied by trained professionals. Safety guide.
