Chinese Medicine in Late Summer
The weather in late summer is usually hotter and heavier with humidity than the rest of the season. Dampness is associated with the earth element which is most active this time of year. Late summer is a time for slowing down and gathering in. The earth element gives us the ability to nourish and care for ourselves.
The excessive rain and hot weather we’ve been having are a perfect medium for a damp condition. The dampness can mix with pathogens to create ailments such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, aching joints and heaviness in the chest. These conditions impede the flow of chi through the body.
“Inner dampness is caused by excess cold consumption of liquor, tea, cold melons and sweet greasy foods. These impede spleen functions.”
To counteract dampness, eat a healthy, nutritional diet, rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, get a good night’s sleep and exercise at least three times a week.
