Spleen Qi Deficiency is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Pattern of Illness. As per the Chinese tradition, “Qi” means energy sustained by the body. The energy flows around and within the body in multiple ways. However, these pathways are separate from the circulatory, nervous and lymphatic system routes. The energy Qi is a virtual form of an energy that comprises of genetic traits, lifestyle until present and the daily intake of food, water and air by a person. So what is spleen Qi deficiency? When the Qi of the spleen is low, the spleen does not function efficiently. But what does a spleen do? It aids in recycling old RBC (red blood cells), creating lymphocytes for strengthening the immune system, absorption of nutrients from foods consumed and extraction of the Qi from the food and transporting the energy through out the body. Hence, when there is a Qi deficiency in spleen, the cascading effects cause many abdominal discomforts as well as accelerated aging.

Symptoms of Spleen Qi Deficiency
Weakness, lethargy
Pale, bright face
Shallow breathing
Low, soft voice
Little desire to speak
Poor appetite
Prolonged headache
Fatigue
Loose stools
Lethargy
Dizziness
Tired eyes
Dislike cold greasy foods
Headache after exertion
Symptoms are worse in the morning
Abdominal discomfort which feels better when pressure is applied
Indigestion
Bloating and gas
Weak limbs
Tongue
Pale or normal tongue. May have swollen sides
Pulse
Weak pulse
Related Conditions
Gastric or duodenal ulcer
Dyspepsia
Hepatitis
Anemia

Spleen Qi deficiency can be treated effectively by following ways:

Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a popular and traditional treatment method used in releasing stagnation of the Qi. This treatment is effective in increasing the Qi levels in spleen. The pressure points, Taichong (liver) and Hegu (large intestine) are subjected to acupuncture treatment to enhance the circulation of Qi through out the body. Taichong is located on the top of the foot, below the gap between metatarsal bones, whereas Hegu is located on the padded area of the hand between thumb and index finger. Other pressure points such as Zu San Li (Stomach) and Gong Sun (Spleen), are subjected to acupuncture treatment to palliate the emotions and lower stress levels.

Herbal Medicines: Spleen Qi Deficiency is treated with traditional chinese medicine such as Bai Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis) and Dang Shen (Radix Codonopsis). These Chinese herbs aid in enhancing the Qi in spleen and distributing the energy appropriately. Astragalus and jujube dates are also used.

Herbs Used For Spleen Qi Deficiency
These are just some of the herbs that are believed to help spleen qi deficiency

• Codonopsis
• Ginseng
• Astragalus
• Jujube Dates
  Foods to Strengthen the Spleen
• Beef
• Root vegetables
• Warm foods
• Soups
• Warming spices, such as black pepper, ginger, cumin Spleen Qi Deficiency Diet: Nothing beats the essence of a healthy diet. A diet comprising of whole grains, vegetables (like asparagus, eggplant, peas, button mushroom, cabbage, shiitake mushroom, squash, sweet potato and tomato) and fruits (like apples, figs, dates and grapes) will ensure a healthy spleen. Beef, chicken and lamb aid in enhancing the Qi levels in spleen. Spices like black pepper, ginger, cumin, bay leaves, liquorice help in strengthening the spleen. It is better to avoid excessive intake of sweets, junk food and foods with low fiber content.