There are two types of spleen deficiency: the Fuzi Lizhong Wan type and the Xiangsha Liujun Wan type.
Today, I will talk to you about two common types of spleen deficiency: one is suitable for Fuzi Lizhong Wan, and the other is suitable for Xiangsha Liujun Wan.
First, let's talk about the spleen deficiency with coldness that corresponds to Fuzi Lizhong Wan. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, cold pathogens are like "troublemakers"; once they enter the body, they make a person sensitive to cold and fearful of chills. People of this type prefer eating hot food; as soon as they eat something cold, their stomach feels uncomfortable. This is actually deficiency-cold in the stomach, meaning there is insufficient Yang energy in the stomach.
Yang energy is like a "little sun" inside the body; it warms the system and aids digestion. When stomach Yang is insufficient, eating cold or raw foods can easily trigger a dull, lingering ache or intermittent bouts of persistent pain. In such cases, Fuzi Lizhong Wan is often the appropriate remedy. However, while taking the medication, it is crucial to watch your diet—avoid cold and raw foods entirely so the body can gradually recover.
Now, let's discuss the type of spleen and stomach weakness associated with Xiangsha Liujun Wan. The spleen and stomach act as the body's "processing plant," responsible for digesting and absorbing food and converting it into the nutrients the body needs. If the spleen and stomach are weak, the operational capacity of this "processing plant" declines, making it easy for phlegm-dampness and food stagnation-induced Qi stagnation to develop.
Phlegm-dampness is like "wastewater" in the body; an excess of it leads to coughing and increased phlegm. Food and Qi stagnation, on the other hand, cause indigestion, making you feel bloated and lose your appetite after eating even a small amount. People with spleen and stomach weakness often have a thick, greasy white tongue coating and are prone to fatigue, excessive sweating, or even eczema. In these instances, it is necessary to strengthen the spleen, eliminate dampness, and regulate Qi; Xiangsha Liujun Wan is an excellent choice. If there is only phlegm-dampness without Qi stagnation, one might also consider Liujunzi Wan.
If you notice symptoms of spleen deficiency, do not self-medicate blindly. It is best to consult a doctor first to differentiate which type of spleen deficiency you have and then apply the correct treatment for faster recovery. Your body belongs to you—take good care of it