What is Deficiency in Chinese Medicine?

In Chinese medicine, the term “deficiency” (虚, “xu”) refers to a state where there is an insufficient supply or weakened function of one or more of the fundamental substances or functional systems within the body. These fundamental substances include Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. Deficiency can affect any organ system and lead to various symptoms depending on which substance or system is deficient.

Here is a brief overview of the different types of deficiencies in Chinese medicine:

1. Qi Deficiency (气虚, “qi xu”):

• Symptoms: Fatigue, shortness of breath, weak voice, spontaneous sweating, poor appetite, loose stools.
• Commonly Affected Organs: Spleen, Lung.
• Example: Spleen Qi deficiency can lead to digestive issues and general tiredness.

1. Blood Deficiency (血虚, “xue xu”):

• Symptoms: Dizziness, paleness, dry skin, insomnia, palpitations, brittle nails, scanty menstruation.
• Commonly Affected Organs: Liver, Heart.
• Example: Liver Blood deficiency can result in dry eyes and muscle cramps.

1. Yin Deficiency (阴虚, “yin xu”):

• Symptoms: Night sweats, dry mouth and throat, five-palm heat (heat in the palms, soles, and chest), red tongue with little or no coating, thin pulse.
• Commonly Affected Organs: Kidney, Lung, Heart, Liver.
• Example: Kidney Yin deficiency can lead to symptoms like lower back pain and hot flashes.

1. Yang Deficiency (阳虚, “yang xu”):

• Symptoms: Cold limbs, feeling cold, fatigue, frequent urination, diarrhea, weak pulse.
• Commonly Affected Organs: Kidney, Spleen, Heart.
• Example: Kidney Yang deficiency can cause symptoms such as cold extremities and low libido.

In Chinese medicine, the balance and interaction of Yin and Yang, as well as the proper functioning and harmony of Qi and Blood, are essential for health. Deficiency indicates an imbalance or lack of one of these essential elements, leading to various health issues that require specific treatments to restore balance and improve health. Treatments may include herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to strengthen and support the deficient element.