Staying Healthy in Spring with Chinese Medicine

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In spring the earth’s energies come alive. The recession of energy into the earth during winter begins to reverse and the earth brings forth new life and beauty.

As we are part of nature, the energy in our bodies begins to move up and outward during spring. This is the time to be more physically active and spend time outdoors. To support this activity, it is important to eat foods with upward energies. Green vegetables which are sprouting above ground, and a lighter diet will support the upward energies inside our bodies.

Spring is also the time of wind energy and gallbladder (GB) and liver (LV) energy. The liver meridian is very sensitive to the effects of wind energy. If you have an imbalance in GB or LV energy, you may experience symptoms of cramps, itching, spasms, dizziness, pain that comes and goes, pulsating headaches, and ringing in the ears.

Tips to promote health during spring.

  • Eat foods that support and reduce the effects of internal wind (a Chinese Medicine term). In early spring, oats, prawns, pine nuts, ginger, fennel, carrot, beetroot, cabbage, and basil are recommended. Later in the spring, celery, strawberry, cherries, peppermint, sage, chamomile, and mulberry are good choices.
  • Make sure you have a jacket or scarf in case of unpredictable weather changes. The body needs to protect against spring colds, especially if there is a compromised immune system. Again, it is important to support the LV and GB meridians at this time.
  • The sour flavor in small amounts strengthens the liver. “It helps strengthen tendons, improve bladder control, excessive sweating, diarrhea, sagging skin, hemorrhoids, and prolapsed conditions.” Too much sour flavor will create imbalance between the organs. Some sour foods are lemon, limes, pickles, rose hips, and vinegar. If you suspect a liver imbalance already, it is best to be evaluated by an acupuncturist before following this protocol.
  • “Foods that calm the liver will benefit everyone in spring.” Some examples are bay leaf, black sesame, celery, kelp, coconut milk, and scallions. These can be helpful if the liver energy is too strong. Liver energy which is too strong weakens the spleen which can cause vomiting, nausea, distension, and flatulence.