The high temperatures of summer often lead to sweating in the human body, which is a natural reaction to regulate body temperature. However, even in cool environments or without the need for strenuous physical labor, some people may experience excessive sweating issues. Is this phenomenon confusing, a sign of health, or a symptom of an underlying disease?
This article analyzes the close connection between sweating and the body’s qi (energy) and blood from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine and introduces a Chinese herbal formula that aims to help alleviate symptoms of hyperhidrosis.
A middle-aged man named Mr. Li, who had to stay outdoors for long periods due to work demands, recently found himself sweating profusely even without vigorous exercise. Initially, he attributed this to the hot weather, but as the sweating gradually became severe, to the point of interfering with his daily work and life, Mr. Li began to worry and sought professional advice at a clinic for traditional Chinese medicine.
An experienced TCM practitioner diagnosed Mr. Li’s excessive sweating as being related to an imbalance of qi and blood after asking questions and examining his tongue coating and pulse. In TCM, sweat is regarded as a form of bodily fluids, whose secretion and regulation are closely related to the circulation of qi and blood. Sufficient and smooth qi and blood can lead to moderate sweat secretion, playing a role in regulating body temperature and expelling toxins. On the contrary, if qi and blood are insufficient or not circulating smoothly, it can lead to abnormal sweat secretion, such as problems of excessive or insufficient sweating.
For Mr. Li’s excessive sweating, the TCM practitioner prescribed a formula with four herbal ingredients: Astragalus, Atractylodes, Fang Feng, and Floating Wheat. Combined, these herbs harmonize qi and blood and effectively stop sweating and stabilize the body’s exterior. After a period of treatment with Chinese medicine, Mr. Li’s excessive sweating was significantly improved, no longer affecting his daily activities, and his mental state greatly improved.
So, is excessive sweating good or bad? Traditional Chinese medicine believes that appropriate sweating is a normal physiological phenomenon, beneficial for temperature regulation and waste expulsion. However, excessive sweating is often a sign of an imbalance in qi and blood, requiring timely treatment. Otherwise, long-term excessive sweating can deplete the body’s fluids and qi and blood, affecting health.
In addition to TCM treatment, it is also important to maintain indoor air circulation in everyday life, avoid hot environments; engage in moderate exercise to enhance physical strength; keep regular routines and diets, and avoid overwork and inappropriate diets.
In short, it is crucial whether sweating is appropriate and whether it is accompanied by other symptoms. If excessive sweating persists, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to identify the cause and receive treatment. By balancing qi and blood through TCM therapies and reasonable lifestyle adjustments, you can reduce abnormal sweating and enjoy a healthier life.
Sweating is a natural response of the body, but if you find yourself sweating excessively, this may be a signal of an imbalance in the body. In the ancient wisdom of TCM, it is crucial to perceive the subtle changes in the body. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that maintaining the balance of qi and blood is key to keeping the body healthy.
For our health, each of us should learn how to listen to the subtle changes in our bodies. It is essential to identify signals that reflect bad habits in a timely manner and make corresponding lifestyle adjustments. Thus, our health, like a gentle and continuous stream, will nourish our lives without end.
It’s worth remembering that true health can’t be achieved overnight; it requires daily persistence and meticulous care. Now, let’s join hands with the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine and stride together toward a healthy and beautiful future!
