Many people in life are troubled by digestive problems: some eat a lot but constipated, some have diarrhea after eating a little, and some always have bloated stomachs and pass gas. These seemingly minor issues are actually closely related to the dysfunction of the viscera. Today, let's talk about how traditional Chinese medicine solves these troubles through "syndrome differentiation and drug selection" in an easy-to-understand way.

I. Excess stomach fire: Eating a lot but not defecating

People with excessive stomach fire often experience the "eat without defecating" phenomenon. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that the stomach and small intestine are mutually complementary organs. Excessive stomach fire is like a stove burning too intensely, "roasting" all the moisture in the intestines. Besides constipation, these individuals are prone to feeling hungry quickly, always feeling thirsty and wanting to drink water, and may even experience bad breath and swollen, painful gums.

Key for regulation: Clear stomach fire, moisten the intestines. Niuhuang Qingwei Pills is a classic formula, with Huanglian (Coptis chinensis) and Huangqin (Scutellaria baicalensis) capable of clearing heat and expelling fire, while Shengdi (Rehmannia glutinosa) and Maidong (Ophiopogon japonicus) can nourish yin and moisten dryness. It is recommended to take once in the morning and once in the evening, while also consuming more heat-clearing foods like bitter gourd and winter melon, and avoiding spicy and fried foods.

II. Spleen deficiency with dampness excess: Diarrhea after eating a little

People with spleen deficiency are often troubled by "diarrhea after eating a little." Traditional Chinese Medicine explains that the spleen governs transportation and transformation, acting like the body's "transportation captain," responsible for delivering the essence of food throughout the body. When the spleen is deficient, fluid metabolism goes awry, resulting in loose, sticky stools that cling to the toilet, accompanied by fatigue and sallow complexion.

Key to regulation: Strengthen the spleen and eliminate dampness. Shen Ling Bai Zhu San is the first choice, with ginseng and white atractylodes tonifying the spleen and invigorating qi, while Poria and coix seed promoting diuresis and draining dampness. It is recommended to take after meals for half an hour, and you can cook yam and lotus seed porridge daily, combined with moxibustion at the Zusanli point to enhance the effect.

3. Liver qi stagnation: Stomach bloating and frequent passing of gas

People with liver qi stagnation often feel "a gas in their stomach." Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that the liver governs the free flow of qi and is responsible for regulating the body's qi mechanism. Long-term staying up late and high stress can lead to liver qi stagnation, like a pipe being blocked. If the qi mechanism is not smooth, it can cause stomach bloating, frequent passing of gas, and may also be accompanied by low mood, chest tightness, and hypochondriac pain.

Key to regulation: Soothe the liver and regulate qi. Chai Hu Shu Gan Wan is a classic formula, with Bupleurum and Cyperus soothing the liver and resolving stagnation, while dried tangerine peel and Fructus Aurantii Immaturus regulating qi and harmonizing the stomach. It is recommended to take after lunch every day, and also practice deep breathing exercises to maintain a relaxed mood.

Medication Reminder:

Chinese patent medicine should be used according to symptoms. If there is no improvement after taking it for 3 days, seek medical attention.

Pregnant women and chronic patients should consult a doctor before taking medication.

Avoid cold and greasy foods during the adjustment period. Maintain a regular schedule

Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes "treating the root of the disease." These common digestive issues may appear to be in the stomach and intestines, but they are actually closely related to the functions of the internal organs. By observing the signals the body sends out and combining them with proper regulation, often twice the result can be achieved with half the effort. Of course, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is still important to seek timely diagnosis and treatment from a professional TCM practitioner.