Phlegm vs Dampness in Chinese Medicine

Introduction

• Presenter: Clara
• Content Focus: Chinese medicine, particularly for acupuncture students and practitioners
• Aim: To differentiate between phlegm and dampness

Key Differences Between Phlegm and Dampness

• Fluid Accumulation: Both are accumulations of fluids
  • Phlegm: Thicker
  • Dampness: Less thick, more fluid
• Body Fluids: Distinguished into thick and thin fluids
  • Thin Fluids: Urine, tears, sweat
  • Thick Fluids: Organs, brain, marrow

Symptoms of Excess Dampness

• Water retention: bloating, edema, swelling
• Excess saliva
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• Post nasal drip

Symptoms of Excess Phlegm

• Coughing phlegm
• Presence of cysts (ganglion, ovarian)
• Crystals in rheumatoid arthritis deformities

Common Signs for Both

• Tongue and Pulse: slippery pulse and greasy tongue coating
• Nausea
• Greasy skin or hair

Differentiating Phlegm and Dampness

• Bowel Movements: Key Indicator
  • Dampness: Loose stools or diarrhea
  • Phlegm: Formed but sticky stools (require more cleaning)

Treatment Approaches

• Acupuncture Points

  • Dampness: Spleen 9
  • Phlegm: Stomach 40

• Phlegm Categories

  • Visible Phlegm: Cysts, thick mucus
  • Invisible Phlegm: Affects mental health (e.g., depression, Alzheimer’s)
  • Stomach 40: Effective for anxiety, depression, and mental health issues

Dietary Recommendations

• Avoid:
  • Mucus-forming foods (dairy, sugar, processed foods, beer, alcohol)
• Beneficial Foods:
  • Asparagus, dandelion, lemon, ginger, turmeric
• General Guidance: Eat healthy, vegetable-rich diet

Conclusion

• Clarification of phlegm vs dampness is integral to TCM practice
• Further Resources:
  • Clara’s books available on acuproacademy.com
• Encouragement: Keep practicing TCM and have a great day!