In our daily lives, our bodies often experience minor issues like chronic diarrhea, excessive flatulence, or a protruding belly. While these may seem like small matters, they actually reflect underlying principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Today, I will explain these conditions and share three affordable and effective herbal remedies with you.

First, let’s talk about chronic diarrhea. In TCM, it is often said that "nine out of ten stomach problems are caused by cold." Our stomach relies on Yang energy to transform and transport food. If Stomach Yang is insufficient, this function becomes impaired. Consequently, the frequency of bowel movements increases, and in severe cases, diarrhea can persist for a long time. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as gastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite. In such cases, Wenwei Jiangni Decoction (Warm the Stomach and Direct Qi Downward Decoction) comes in handy. This formula can be used to treat everything from minor stomach pain, bloating, acid reflux, heartburn, and loss of appetite caused by Stomach Cold, to more serious conditions like gastritis, gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers. It works by warming the middle burner, dispersing cold, and relieving acute pain—much like wrapping a warm blanket around a cold stomach.

Next, let's talk about the issue of excessive flatulence. In our bodies, the liver is responsible for the dredging and dispersing of the body's Qi (energy flow). If liver Qi becomes stagnant and waste gas cannot be discharged properly, it will be expelled in the form of flatulence. Furthermore, people with this condition often have a quick temper and are prone to experiencing a dry or bitter taste in the mouth. In such cases, Chaihu Shugan Wan is quite suitable. It can soothe the liver and regulate Qi, clearing the stagnant liver Qi to ensure smooth energy flow, which in turn improves the situation of excessive flatulence.

Finally, let's discuss the issue of a large belly. The spleen governs transportation and transformation; the food we eat relies on the spleen to be processed and absorbed. If there is a spleen deficiency, its transportive function weakens, and metabolism is affected accordingly. Water-dampness then accumulates in the body, leading to abdominal bloating and weight gain, making the belly look larger and larger. At this time, Xiangsha Liujun Wan is a good choice. It can supplement Qi, strengthen the spleen, and harmonize the stomach, regulating the Qi of the spleen and stomach to restore normal transportive functions. This allows water-dampness to be discharged smoothly, and the belly will gradually shrink.

These three medicines are all essential; remembering each one will serve you well. However, medication should be tailored to your specific situation. If you are unsure, it is best to consult a doctor.