Yang Deficiency Constitution
A constitution characterized by insufficiency of vital Yang, especially Kidney Yang and Spleen Yang. Yang is the body's warming and transforming energy; its deficiency generates internal cold, a slow metabolism, and fluid accumulation.
Description
A constitution characterized by insufficiency of vital Yang, especially Kidney Yang and Spleen Yang. Yang is the body's warming and transforming energy; its deficiency generates internal cold, a slow metabolism, and fluid accumulation.
Physical and emotional traits
Physical
- Cold extremities (hands and feet always cold)
- Cold intolerance and preference for warmth
- Pale or slightly dark complexion
- Tendency toward weight gain from fluid retention
- Fine, weak hair
- Cold or aching lower back
- Abundant, clear urine, especially at night
Emotional
- Lethargy and apathy
- Introversion and reserve
- Low motivation and enthusiasm
- Tendency toward melancholy in cold weather
- Prefers calm over activity
- Needs more encouragement to take action
Common symptoms
- Cold extremities (四肢不温, sì zhī bù wēn)
- Cold and painful lower back and knees
- Abundant, clear and frequent urine
- Nocturia (frequent urination at night)
- Loose stools or morning diarrhea
- Edema in the lower limbs
- Decreased libido
- Slow metabolism
- Feeling of internal cold even when the surroundings are warm
- Tongue
- Pale or whitish, moist or with excess white, moist coating, swollen body
- Pulse
- Slow (迟脉, chí mài) and weak, especially in the deep position (沉脉, chén mài)
Tendencies and vulnerabilities
- High sensitivity to cold and dampness
- Tendency toward edema and fluid retention
- Higher risk of cardiovascular disease
- Tendency toward hypothyroidism
- Susceptibility to arthritis and joint pain
- Sexual and reproductive dysfunction
Diet
Prioritize warm foods that tonify Kidney and Spleen Yang. Cook all food (nothing raw or cold). Use warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and pepper. Eat warm food in a warm setting.
Favor
- Fresh ginger (生姜, shēng jiāng)
- Lamb and venison (tonify Kidney Yang)
- Walnuts and chestnuts
- Leek (韭菜, jiǔ cài)
- Garlic and onion
- Cinnamon and cardamom
- Glutinous rice
- Chinese red dates
- Baked chicken with warming spices
- Hot soups and stews
Moderate
- Cold and raw foods
- Iced drinks and ice cream
- Very cold fruits (watermelon, melon)
- Raw shellfish
- Cold salads
- Carbonated drinks
- Excess bitter foods
Lifestyle, exercise and emotions
Keep the body warm, especially the lower back and feet. Warm herbal foot baths. Avoid cold and dampness. Regular moxibustion. Go to bed early.
- Moxibustion on CV4 (Guan Yuan) and ST36 daily
- Tai Chi Chuan to activate Yang without depleting it
- Walking in the morning sun
- Moderate exercise in a warm environment
- Sunbathing (sun therapy)
- Qi Gong to tonify the Kidney
Excessive fear damages the Kidney. Cultivate confidence and courage. Seek activities that generate enthusiasm and joy. Avoid isolation in the cold months.
Seasonal advice
- Spring
- Take advantage of the emerging warmth. Go out in the early sun. Mild, warming foods to come out of the winter cold.
- Summer
- The best season to tonify Yang. Moderate sun exposure. Summer moxibustion (三伏灸, sān fú jiǔ). Warm foods even when it is hot.
- Autumn
- Begin protecting yourself from the coming cold. Add layers early. Prepare the body for winter with nourishing foods.
- Winter
- Season of greatest vulnerability. Maximum protection against the cold. Deep rest. Intensive tonification of Kidney Yang with lamb and walnuts.
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.
