TCM Pattern Diagnosis: Spleen Qi (Chi) Deficiency

Spleen Qi Deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Pattern Description

Spleen Qi Deficiency (脾气虚) is a common diagnosis in TCM, often associated with modern lifestyle habits such as poor diet with high levels of sugar and processed foods, stress, overthinking, overwork, and lack of rest. In TCM theory, the Spleen is our metabolism, is central to digestion and the transformation of food into Qi and Blood, which is transported to all our cells and therefore nourishes the entire body.

When Spleen Qi is weak, digestive efficiency, blood and energy production are impaired, leading to fatigue, digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), muscle weakness, and a weakened immune system.

Spleen Qi (Chee) Deficiency is a common pattern we find in Chinese Medicine often due to our modern industrialized diet and lifestyle.

Causes

• Poor diet (excessive raw, cold-natured, fried, greasy, or excessively sweet foods)

• Overthinking or excessive mental work

• Chronic illness or prolonged fatigue

• Lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle

• Irregular eating habits, eating while hurried or stressed

Key Symptoms

• Fatigue and low energy

• Poor appetite or feeling full quickly

• Craving sweets

• Abdominal bloating or distention (especially after meals)

• Borborygmus (water pipe sounds in the gut)

• Loose stools or chronic diarrhea

• Bowel movements soon after a meal

• Pale complexion

• Weak limbs or muscle tone

• Tendency to bruise easily

• Feeling cold or aversion to cold

• A pale, swollen tongue with teeth marks on the sides

• A weak or soft pulse

Dietary Recommendations

General Principles

• Eat warm, cooked foods to support the Spleen

• Drinks need to be room temperature or above

• Orange, red, and yellow colored fruits and veggies

• Avoid raw, cold, greasy, and sugary foods

• Eat at regular times, without skipping meals

• Fasting can help occasionally to give the digestive system a break

• Chew thoroughly, eat slowly and mindfully

Foods to Strengthen Spleen Qi

Grains & Complex Carbohydrates:

• Brown rice

• Oats

• Millet

• Quinoa

• Sweet potatoes

Cooked Vegetables (preferably lightly steamed or stir-fried):

• Carrots

• Squash

• Pumpkin

• Turnips

• Leeks

• Beets

Proteins:

• Lentils

• Adzuki beans

• Chickpeas

• Chicken

• Turkey

• Eggs

• Bone broth

Herbs, Teas, and Spices:

• Ginger (fresh or dried)

• Cinnamon

• Fennel

• Garlic (cooked)

• Nutmeg

Fruits (in moderation, cooked when possible):

• Apples

• Dates (especially red dates / jujube)

• Figs

• Pears (steamed or poached)

Foods to Avoid

• Ice-cold drinks and raw salads

• Dairy products (can create dampness)

• Fried or greasy foods

• Excessive refined sugar

• Processed foods in a box or a bag

• Overeating or snacking constantly

Lifestyle Recommendations

Lifestyle habits are just as important as diet in restoring and maintaining healthy Spleen Qi.

Mindful Living:

• Regular sleep schedule: Aim for consistent bed and wake times, preferably before 11 PM

• Adequate rest: Avoid overworking or excessive mental strain

• Moderate exercise: Walking, Qi Gong, and Tai Chi are ideal

• Avoid overthinking: Chronic worry or over-intellectualizing can damage the Spleen

• Take breaks during work: Especially if you're doing mental tasks

Daily Practices:

• Gentle abdominal massage (clockwise) to support digestion

• Breathing exercises to reduce stress, 5 count inhale, 5 count exhale, for 5 minutes total duration

• Warm foot baths in the evening to anchor energy

Herbal Formula Recommendations

Chinese herbal formulas are effective tools for tonifying the Spleen and improving Qi. Here are some widely used formulas:

1. Si Jun Zi Tang (四君子汤 – Four Gentlemen Decoction)

• Main Ingredients: Ren Shen (Ginseng), Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Zhi Gan Cao

• Functions: Tonifies Spleen Qi, supports digestion

• Indications: Fatigue, pale complexion, poor appetite, loose stools

2. Liu Jun Zi Tang (六君子汤 – Six Gentlemen Decoction)

• Functions: Si Jun Zi Tang + Ban Xia and Chen Pi to address dampness and phlegm

• Indications: Spleen Qi Deficiency with bloating, nausea, or excess phlegm

3. Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (补中益气汤 – Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Decoction)

• Functions: Tonifies Spleen and raises Yang Qi

• Indications: Prolapse (e.g. uterus, stomach), chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, spontaneous sweating

⚠️ Always consult with a licensed TCM practitioner before taking herbal formulas. They will tailor the herbs to your specific pattern and constitution.

Summary

Spleen Qi Deficiency is a pattern that reflects the body's lack of digestive strength and energy. It often results from modern habits—irregular eating, stress, and overwork. By supporting digestion with warm, nourishing foods, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and using appropriate herbal support, it’s possible to restore vitality and strengthen the body's ability to generate and distribute Qi.

Key Takeaways:

• Eat warm, cooked meals at regular times

• Avoid cold, greasy, and overly sweet foods

• Get sufficient rest and manage stress

• Support with TCM herbs and formulas if needed

For a detailed, individualized consultation, please contact our clinic to book your own Private Consultation at www.TallahasseeChineseMedicine.com . See you soon!