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The source of our energy (Qi) and also of our blood is the Spleen. In addition to digestion, it processes information or is responsible for reasoning and thinking. With its holding power it guards the blood in the blood vessels, gives strength to our muscles and distinguishes the five tastes. It is too much to handle and weakening of the Spleen is the most common problem, which is called in TCM: the emptiness of the Spleen Qi.
Emptiness of the Spleen Qi most often leads to the formation of dampness, phlegm, stagnation of Qi or a drop in Qi. The emptiness of the Spleen Qi is most pronounced with a drop in Qi. The conditions border on exhaustion and can be even life-threatening. Typical manifestations are fatigue, pallor, chronic diarrhea, feeling heavy-footed, feeling "empty-headed" and unfortunately also a drop in the internal organs, most often the uterus and rectum. A persistently elevated temperature may also occur. The pulse is always "empty"-it must be looked for in depth, at the bone. The man feels that he can hardly drag himself, he does not think, he feels dizzy after standing and would prefer to crawl somewhere and sleep. The immunity doesn't work well either, because the defensive Qi is the topmost layer that can't be reached anymore.
Strengthening the Spleen is pleasant. We just need to start doing what we have not been doing properly. That is, to eat REGULARLY and not skip meals. And get enough sleep. Spleen retains some of the Qi from each meal to process the next meal. Skipping meals, typically breakfast, will deplete this reserve. Eating is necessary at the first sign of hunger until the first feeling of satiety, so as not to overwhelm the Spleen with excessive amounts of food. Otherwise there is a risk of fatigue and diarrhea.
The fresher the food, the more Qi it has and the more filling it is. Locally sourced ingredients and foods guarantee freshness and seasonality. Eating seasonal foods without mold and chemical treatments does not tax our defenses, which also guard the digestive tract. This saves our Qi for digestion - the production of Qi and blood. It is a known fact that we need fresh foods less to satiate than stored or industrially processed foods. Most additives that enhance taste, color and flavor are burdensome to the Spleen.
Spleen does not tolerate extremes in the form of cold, hot or too spicy food. It does not benefit from strong flavours or artificial sweeteners. The Earth element is characterised by a sweet or bland taste, which corresponds to carbohydrates (not sugars!) and fats. Carbohydrates should make up half of your total intake; they are the easiest thing for Spleen to process. Fats should be as minimally cooked as possible. Protein is necessary for proper recovery, plus it generates the necessary heat during digestion.
Strengthening and toning is the domain of Traditional Chinese Medicine. From the 13th century comes a recipe called Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, which has been given the poetic name Awakening Energy. It combines herbs that strengthen the Qi of the Spleen, Stomach and Lungs with herbs that have the ability to raise Qi literally from the heel. It has a wide range of uses, especially for supporting digestion and normal cardiovascular function. It improves natural defenses and vitality. However, it is not suitable for increased agitation or migraines.
Any health problem that drags on exhausts the Kidneys. Specifically the Yang Kidney, which supports the Spleen in lifting the Qi produced from food. The Kidneys must also be supported when experiencing symptoms of chills, cold and stiffness in the loins, or frequent urination. Cordyceps supports the Kidneys and also the Lungs, controlling the defensive Qi. It is like a spark plug in an engine, ensuring function and performance. By strengthening the Yang of the Kidneys, water management will improve. This is also important because fluids and digestion go together. They assist in food processing, blood formation and cleaning. Without removing the old, the new cannot be created. With great fatigue and exhaustion, Cordyceps as the "greatest energy recharger" is the right choice.
Radim Jakeš